Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Olympic-Themed California Golden Raisin Recipes
With the Olympic Games, just around the corner, the California Raisin Marketing Board has come up with “classic English recipes with a touch of American patriotism” to celebrate the Opening Ceremonies scheduled for July 27.
Check ‘em out and let me know what you think in the comment section
Gold Medal Summer Berry Pudding
Ingredients:
2 pints fresh strawberries, (20 oz)
rinsed, hulled and quartered 1 pint (12 oz.) fresh raspberries
1/2 pint (6 oz.) fresh blueberries
1/2 pint (6 oz.) fresh blackberries
3/4 cup California golden raisins
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons lemon juice from 1 lemon
10 slices white thin bread, stale, crust taken off, leave out over night
Slightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, optional
Combine the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, California Golden Raisins, sugar and 1/4 cup of water in a large nonreactive saucepan and cook uncovered over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Take off the heat, stir in the raspberries and the lemon juice. Allow the berry mixture to cool to room temperature.
While the berries are cooling, line a charlotte pan (medium size) or a medium bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the plastic is flat against the pan, leaving no air pockets. With the crust taken off, cut the bread to fit the pan as close as possible. Dip the cut bread in the juice of the berries and line the bottom and sides of the pan. Place the pan on a large plate. All bread should be lightly saturated with the juice from the berries.
Spoon berries into the lined pan, to the top, using the syrup and berries as possible. Finish the top of the pan with lightly saturated bread (this will be on the bottom of the pudding). Cover with a sheet of plastic loosely over the pudding. Find a plate approximately the same diameter as the inside of the mold and place it on top. Weight it with a heavy can and refrigerate. Remove weight after 6-8 hours. Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Before serving, remove weights, plastic wrap on the top of the mold. To unmold, place the serving plate on top of the mold, invert the mold and plate, carefully remove the mold, then the plastic wrap. Traditional way to serve is with slightly sweetened whipped cream; however, vanilla Greek yogurt can also be used. Makes 8 servings.
Go for the Gold Raisin Tea Cakes
Ingredients:
3/4 cup California golden raisins
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1 whole graham cracker (2 squares)
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 egg, separated
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Powdered sugar
Brandied Lemon Syrup
3 tablespoons water
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons brandy
In food processor fitted with metal blade or electric blender, process raisins, walnuts, graham cracker and peel until ground. In small bowl beat egg white until stiff. In another bowl, quickly beat egg yolk with sugar until lemon-colored. Fold in egg white, then gently fold in raisin mixture. Spoon into 18 paper-lined or greased miniature muffin tin cups, filling just below tops of cups. Bake in 350 degree F oven about 15 minutes until golden and springy to the touch.
Meanwhile for Brandied Lemon Syrup, in small saucepan combine water, sugar and lemon juice. Bring to boil; simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in brandy. Cool to room temperature. Brush onto warm tea cakes. Cool; dust half of each cake with powdered sugar, using a straight edge as a guide. Makes 18 mini muffin cakes.
For more information about California Raisins, visit www.loveyourraisins.com.
Source: California Raisin Marketing Board via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1gCH1)
Check ‘em out and let me know what you think in the comment section
Gold Medal Summer Berry Pudding
Ingredients:
2 pints fresh strawberries, (20 oz)
rinsed, hulled and quartered 1 pint (12 oz.) fresh raspberries
1/2 pint (6 oz.) fresh blueberries
1/2 pint (6 oz.) fresh blackberries
3/4 cup California golden raisins
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons lemon juice from 1 lemon
10 slices white thin bread, stale, crust taken off, leave out over night
Slightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, optional
Combine the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, California Golden Raisins, sugar and 1/4 cup of water in a large nonreactive saucepan and cook uncovered over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Take off the heat, stir in the raspberries and the lemon juice. Allow the berry mixture to cool to room temperature.
While the berries are cooling, line a charlotte pan (medium size) or a medium bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the plastic is flat against the pan, leaving no air pockets. With the crust taken off, cut the bread to fit the pan as close as possible. Dip the cut bread in the juice of the berries and line the bottom and sides of the pan. Place the pan on a large plate. All bread should be lightly saturated with the juice from the berries.
Spoon berries into the lined pan, to the top, using the syrup and berries as possible. Finish the top of the pan with lightly saturated bread (this will be on the bottom of the pudding). Cover with a sheet of plastic loosely over the pudding. Find a plate approximately the same diameter as the inside of the mold and place it on top. Weight it with a heavy can and refrigerate. Remove weight after 6-8 hours. Cover the pudding with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Before serving, remove weights, plastic wrap on the top of the mold. To unmold, place the serving plate on top of the mold, invert the mold and plate, carefully remove the mold, then the plastic wrap. Traditional way to serve is with slightly sweetened whipped cream; however, vanilla Greek yogurt can also be used. Makes 8 servings.
Go for the Gold Raisin Tea Cakes
Ingredients:
3/4 cup California golden raisins
1/3 cup chopped walnuts
1 whole graham cracker (2 squares)
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 egg, separated
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Powdered sugar
Brandied Lemon Syrup
3 tablespoons water
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons brandy
In food processor fitted with metal blade or electric blender, process raisins, walnuts, graham cracker and peel until ground. In small bowl beat egg white until stiff. In another bowl, quickly beat egg yolk with sugar until lemon-colored. Fold in egg white, then gently fold in raisin mixture. Spoon into 18 paper-lined or greased miniature muffin tin cups, filling just below tops of cups. Bake in 350 degree F oven about 15 minutes until golden and springy to the touch.
Meanwhile for Brandied Lemon Syrup, in small saucepan combine water, sugar and lemon juice. Bring to boil; simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in brandy. Cool to room temperature. Brush onto warm tea cakes. Cool; dust half of each cake with powdered sugar, using a straight edge as a guide. Makes 18 mini muffin cakes.
For more information about California Raisins, visit www.loveyourraisins.com.
Source: California Raisin Marketing Board via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1gCH1)
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Shopping Becomes More About The Store Experience Than the Brands They Carry
Here’s an interesting study by Nunwood on why consumers shop where they shop. (Nunwood is a consultancy that manages and measures customer experience for various retailers and utility companies.
From the news release:
“A consumer study of America's leading brands has shown that the retailers driving economic and sector growth are doing so by creating a sense of theatre around their in-store experiences.
Half of the top 100 companies overall are retailers. Within the Top 10, four - Wegman's - 4th, Publix - 5th, Trader Joe's - 6th and HEB - 10th - were set apart by creating what the report describes as "dramatic, theatrical experiences for customers.”
(Side note: Only HEB and Trader Joe’s have a Texas presence.)
David Conway, senior partner at Nunwood, said, “Those retailers who create a compelling sense of theatre for their customers are outperforming the sector average by between 8 percent and 12 percent when it comes to customer experience. These are overwhelmingly nimble, privately owned businesses that have remained close to their customers and invested in staff culture.
“As the impact of e-commerce and m-commerce continues to grow, it's those retailers that still see staff as a cost to be driven down, rather than a lever of growth, who will face serious challenges. Minimum wage retail jobs simply don't make sense anymore.”
(Side note: e-commerce refers to purchases made online from a computer; m-commerce refers to purchases made from a mobile device, such as a smart phone or a tablet.)
"By combining investment in great staff with careful design of theatrical experiences, some American retailers are bucking the trend - outstripping modest sector growth, and creating jobs.
“The report also reflects recent criticism of Apple over low levels of pay in its retail division - which, while still a top performer - has dropped from 10th place across all sectors in 2011, to 37th place in 2012. Apple has responded to this criticism with snap pay rises of up to 25 percent and it will be interesting to see how this affects their scores next year.”
The Customer Experience Excellence study is an annual report created by Nunwood. It looks at more than 100,000 customer comments and covers every major brand in the United States. Comments regarding the brands are analyzed and used to score the brand against six criteria that Nunwood uses to assess the quality of customer experience. These are: valuing a customer's time, demonstrating empathy, resolving issues, matching the customers' expectations, personalizing service and demonstrating corporate ethics.
See the full report here. It’s a quick, but fascinating read.
Source Nunwood via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1gWzc)
Monday, July 16, 2012
10 Tips to Avoid Eating Too Much at Summer Cookouts
As the obesity epidemic soars in the United States, now affecting nearly one in three adult Americans more and more barbeque-goers are paying close attention to what they're eating and how it could impact their weight and their health.
"Summer barbeques can be a sore spot for many local residents struggling to keep the weight off," said Deborah Gilkey, Registered Dietitian and Patient Care Coordinator at My Weight Doctor®. "Given their popularity, chances are many in the area will be enjoying a hot dog, or three, on the Fourth."
Before digging in, there are a few things to keep in mind. On average, three all-beef hot dogs on a roll with ketchup can be the equivalent of 945 calories, with 500 calories coming from the 55.5g of fat. That's almost 47 percent of an adult's recommended daily caloric value and 85 percent of the daily recommended value of fat.
So, what does it take for the average American to burn off these calories?
• Four hours and 22 minutes of walking;
• One hour and 48 minutes of jogging;
• One hour and 19 minutes of swimming; or,
• Two hours and 24 minutes of cycling.
Gilkey continued, "It can be difficult to put in enough exercise to burn the extra calories consumed at the cookout, particularly the high-fat content and calories in hot dogs. So, unless you're an active athlete, you may want to consider reading up on some tips for your barbeque intake this season."
Dietitians and physicians at My Weight Doctor® offer the following tips for staying on track at the barbeque:
1. Don't leave your house hungry
Attending an event hungry, or worse, famished, makes it more difficult to hold back from diving right into the meat and cheese dip. Instead, have a healthy, high-protein snack to fend off hunger before the barbeque, such as a handful of walnuts, fat-free Greek yogurt or low-fat cheese with whole grain crackers. These foods will keep you fuller longer, and help you avoid feeling faint or famished.
2. Know you're going to eat ... a little bit
It's not necessary, or realistic, to go to a cookout and deprive yourself of all things food. Know that you may sample different foods, but do your best to keep track of what you have eaten in your head. Not sure how many calories are in each dish? Stick to the 50-calories-per-bite rule, assuming that each bite-size spoon full is worth approximately 50 calories.
3. Don't overdo it
If you overindulge and have three hot dogs, don't use it as an excuse to keep eating because you've already "ruined" your diet for the day. Enjoy the hot dogs and then get back on the program.
4. Offer to bring a healthy dish
Instead of loading your plate up with all of the unhealthy options on the picnic table, bring a healthy side dish (one that you enjoy) that you can eat and fill up on before surrendering to unhealthy alternatives.
5. Try a healthy alternative
If you're going for the hot dog tray, find out if there's an organic or natural meat alternative on the grill. Turkey or chicken hot dogs can be just as tasty, but have at least 30 fewer calories and nearly half the fat as an all-beef hot dog.
6. Distract your mouth
Sometimes your mouth just needs to feel loved, so chew on a piece of sugar-free gum or snack on low-calorie food items to satisfy your cravings.
7. Keep vegetables and fruit handy
Vegetables and fruit are great ways to fill your tummy and avoid overeating junk food. Before resorting to mayo-based pasta and potato salads, or indulging in a brownie, hang out by the veggie tray and fill your plate with healthy foods and a low-fat, yet delicious dip.
8. Use smaller plates/cups
It gives the appearance of more food and you won't feel obligated to fill up your plate with every item on the menu.
9. Stay hydrated
Keeping hydrated in the summer heat is important and can also help you to not feel as hungry. So drink water - alcohol doesn't count. But, if you do decide to have a beverage or two, choose a low-calorie option.
10. Be careful with condiments
Calories from small food items add up. Try to limit the unhealthy condiments on your hot dog, such as ketchup, cheese or chili, and be sure to choose healthy low-fat dips for your vegetables.
"Controlling cravings can be a challenge," said Gilkey. "For those who continue to struggle to modify unhealthy eating habits on their own, there is help." My Weight Doctor® is a local practice that provides ongoing treatment to help people control cravings, lose weight and feel better.
SOURCE My Weight Doctor via PR Newsire
"Summer barbeques can be a sore spot for many local residents struggling to keep the weight off," said Deborah Gilkey, Registered Dietitian and Patient Care Coordinator at My Weight Doctor®. "Given their popularity, chances are many in the area will be enjoying a hot dog, or three, on the Fourth."
Before digging in, there are a few things to keep in mind. On average, three all-beef hot dogs on a roll with ketchup can be the equivalent of 945 calories, with 500 calories coming from the 55.5g of fat. That's almost 47 percent of an adult's recommended daily caloric value and 85 percent of the daily recommended value of fat.
So, what does it take for the average American to burn off these calories?
• Four hours and 22 minutes of walking;
• One hour and 48 minutes of jogging;
• One hour and 19 minutes of swimming; or,
• Two hours and 24 minutes of cycling.
Gilkey continued, "It can be difficult to put in enough exercise to burn the extra calories consumed at the cookout, particularly the high-fat content and calories in hot dogs. So, unless you're an active athlete, you may want to consider reading up on some tips for your barbeque intake this season."
Dietitians and physicians at My Weight Doctor® offer the following tips for staying on track at the barbeque:
1. Don't leave your house hungry
Attending an event hungry, or worse, famished, makes it more difficult to hold back from diving right into the meat and cheese dip. Instead, have a healthy, high-protein snack to fend off hunger before the barbeque, such as a handful of walnuts, fat-free Greek yogurt or low-fat cheese with whole grain crackers. These foods will keep you fuller longer, and help you avoid feeling faint or famished.
2. Know you're going to eat ... a little bit
It's not necessary, or realistic, to go to a cookout and deprive yourself of all things food. Know that you may sample different foods, but do your best to keep track of what you have eaten in your head. Not sure how many calories are in each dish? Stick to the 50-calories-per-bite rule, assuming that each bite-size spoon full is worth approximately 50 calories.
3. Don't overdo it
If you overindulge and have three hot dogs, don't use it as an excuse to keep eating because you've already "ruined" your diet for the day. Enjoy the hot dogs and then get back on the program.
4. Offer to bring a healthy dish
Instead of loading your plate up with all of the unhealthy options on the picnic table, bring a healthy side dish (one that you enjoy) that you can eat and fill up on before surrendering to unhealthy alternatives.
5. Try a healthy alternative
If you're going for the hot dog tray, find out if there's an organic or natural meat alternative on the grill. Turkey or chicken hot dogs can be just as tasty, but have at least 30 fewer calories and nearly half the fat as an all-beef hot dog.
6. Distract your mouth
Sometimes your mouth just needs to feel loved, so chew on a piece of sugar-free gum or snack on low-calorie food items to satisfy your cravings.
7. Keep vegetables and fruit handy
Vegetables and fruit are great ways to fill your tummy and avoid overeating junk food. Before resorting to mayo-based pasta and potato salads, or indulging in a brownie, hang out by the veggie tray and fill your plate with healthy foods and a low-fat, yet delicious dip.
8. Use smaller plates/cups
It gives the appearance of more food and you won't feel obligated to fill up your plate with every item on the menu.
9. Stay hydrated
Keeping hydrated in the summer heat is important and can also help you to not feel as hungry. So drink water - alcohol doesn't count. But, if you do decide to have a beverage or two, choose a low-calorie option.
10. Be careful with condiments
Calories from small food items add up. Try to limit the unhealthy condiments on your hot dog, such as ketchup, cheese or chili, and be sure to choose healthy low-fat dips for your vegetables.
"Controlling cravings can be a challenge," said Gilkey. "For those who continue to struggle to modify unhealthy eating habits on their own, there is help." My Weight Doctor® is a local practice that provides ongoing treatment to help people control cravings, lose weight and feel better.
SOURCE My Weight Doctor via PR Newsire
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Meatless Grilling
Ever consider going meatless? We’ve have tried from time to time. In fact, John went vegetarian for three years in the 1970s during his 20s. At the time, he was a member of a band called First State Bank where everyone had to be vegetarian. Back then, there weren’t many options. It was pretty much fruit and veggies and strange concoctions from health food stores. When he joined a different band, he became a meat eater again.
I’ve dabbled with it from time to time, maybe going a week or two with little or no meat. It was easy to substitute prepackaged veggie patties for hamburger patties. My favorite is the MorningStar black bean patty. A warmed patty topped with a slice of tomato, roasted pepper and cheese, and you have a quick, yummy, meatless lunch.
I never ventured into grilling veggie patties. Traditional burgers and dogs for me – and I’m not alone. According to a recent MorningStar Farms® survey, 63 percent of Americans agree that backyard barbecues are the biggest temptation to stray from a veggie diet during the summer when compared to eating on road trips and at food festivals.
To make grilled meatless patties more enticing, MorningStar got Chef Carla Hall, cohost of ABC’s “The Chew” and former “Top Chef” competitor to come up with some recipes.
“It’s all about the flavor,” said Chef Carla Hall. “The MorningStar Farms veggie burgers give people a variety of meatless options while adding sizzle and spice to any summer barbecue or party.”
According to the survey, veggie burgers are the No. 1 choice for people considering a meatless version of popular foods such as hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken patties. Additionally, half of the survey respondents feel that opting for meatless meals as little as one to three times each week would improve their diet.
MorningStar Farms also has introduced the Burger Back Guarantee, which provides a full refund for those who purchase the product and decide it’s not for them. Details are available atwww.morningstarfarms.com.
Chef Carla Hall lends the following tips to ensure outdoor gatherings sizzle with flavor:
Spray some nonstick cooking spray on the grilling surface before turning up the heat. It makes flipping food easier than ever.
Take the salad out of the bowl and use it to top grilled burgers. Whether it’s a slaw or Caprese salad, consider this the adult version of playing with your food.
Use the grill to take advantage of summer’s wide produce selection. Marinate fresh vegetables in light salad dressing and grill until tender for a tasty side dish. After the meal, add slices of angel food cake and stone fruit or pineapple to the grill for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Browse more of MorningStar’s recipe ideas. Comment back and tell me your favorite!
I’ve dabbled with it from time to time, maybe going a week or two with little or no meat. It was easy to substitute prepackaged veggie patties for hamburger patties. My favorite is the MorningStar black bean patty. A warmed patty topped with a slice of tomato, roasted pepper and cheese, and you have a quick, yummy, meatless lunch.
I never ventured into grilling veggie patties. Traditional burgers and dogs for me – and I’m not alone. According to a recent MorningStar Farms® survey, 63 percent of Americans agree that backyard barbecues are the biggest temptation to stray from a veggie diet during the summer when compared to eating on road trips and at food festivals.
To make grilled meatless patties more enticing, MorningStar got Chef Carla Hall, cohost of ABC’s “The Chew” and former “Top Chef” competitor to come up with some recipes.
“It’s all about the flavor,” said Chef Carla Hall. “The MorningStar Farms veggie burgers give people a variety of meatless options while adding sizzle and spice to any summer barbecue or party.”
According to the survey, veggie burgers are the No. 1 choice for people considering a meatless version of popular foods such as hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken patties. Additionally, half of the survey respondents feel that opting for meatless meals as little as one to three times each week would improve their diet.
MorningStar Farms also has introduced the Burger Back Guarantee, which provides a full refund for those who purchase the product and decide it’s not for them. Details are available atwww.morningstarfarms.com.
Chef Carla Hall lends the following tips to ensure outdoor gatherings sizzle with flavor:
Spray some nonstick cooking spray on the grilling surface before turning up the heat. It makes flipping food easier than ever.
Take the salad out of the bowl and use it to top grilled burgers. Whether it’s a slaw or Caprese salad, consider this the adult version of playing with your food.
Use the grill to take advantage of summer’s wide produce selection. Marinate fresh vegetables in light salad dressing and grill until tender for a tasty side dish. After the meal, add slices of angel food cake and stone fruit or pineapple to the grill for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Browse more of MorningStar’s recipe ideas. Comment back and tell me your favorite!
Easy Homemade Dressings from CanolaInfo
The Canola Council of Canada – yup you read that right! – has released a nice catalog of summer dressing recipes. I happened to have a bottle of canola oil in my cupboard. Let’s try out of few of these and see which ones we like best. Send me a comment on your favorite!
From the news release:
CanolaInfo's "Get Dressed for Summer" Recipe Collection showcases the bounty of fresh summer produce and flavor advantages of homemade dressings. The fresh ingredients of the dressings complement the natural flavors of fruits and vegetables, while adding their own zest.
Each recipe can be prepared in just 10 to 15 minutes and is made with canola oil, which has the least saturated fat and most omega-3 fat of all common cooking oils. Recipes include:
Zucchini, Squash and Grape Tomato Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Mixed Berry, Cucumber and Mint Salad with Lime Dressing
Wilted Rainbow Chard with Seared Eggplant and Parsley Vinaigrette
Spinach Salad with Seared Bok Choy, Ginger and Cilantro
Fennel-Orange Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Caramelized Corn and Red Pepper Salad with Chives
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals and fiber that may help protect against chronic diseases. Compared with people who eat few fruits and vegetables, those who eat more generous amounts* are likely to have reduced risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, stroke, some types of cancer and perhaps heart disease.
To find a farmers market near you, go to http://search.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets. (LOVE this resource!)
SOURCE CanolaInfo via PR Newswire
From the news release:
CanolaInfo's "Get Dressed for Summer" Recipe Collection showcases the bounty of fresh summer produce and flavor advantages of homemade dressings. The fresh ingredients of the dressings complement the natural flavors of fruits and vegetables, while adding their own zest.
Each recipe can be prepared in just 10 to 15 minutes and is made with canola oil, which has the least saturated fat and most omega-3 fat of all common cooking oils. Recipes include:
Zucchini, Squash and Grape Tomato Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Mixed Berry, Cucumber and Mint Salad with Lime Dressing
Wilted Rainbow Chard with Seared Eggplant and Parsley Vinaigrette
Spinach Salad with Seared Bok Choy, Ginger and Cilantro
Fennel-Orange Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Caramelized Corn and Red Pepper Salad with Chives
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals and fiber that may help protect against chronic diseases. Compared with people who eat few fruits and vegetables, those who eat more generous amounts* are likely to have reduced risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, stroke, some types of cancer and perhaps heart disease.
To find a farmers market near you, go to http://search.ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets. (LOVE this resource!)
SOURCE CanolaInfo via PR Newswire
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Guide to Beach-proofing Your Tech Gear
The beach is a popular place for fun in the sun but a potentially dangerous place for unprotected electronics. To protect gadgets from sand and water, Consumer Reports recommends using zipper or slider food bags.
Any zipper or slider bag will probably provide passable protection. Consumer Reporters advises that you buy a few bags in different sizes to see which ones fit their devices best, and consider replacing the bags periodically, particularly if sand has scratched the surface and affected how clearly the device's screen can be seen and its controls can be used.
Beachgoers should place gadgets in bags before they leave home, and try not to remove them until they're back home and have brushed off the sand and water. Remember, to take decent photos at the beach, the phone or camera will have to be unsealed and removed from the bag.
Source: Consumer Reports via PR Newswire
Any zipper or slider bag will probably provide passable protection. Consumer Reporters advises that you buy a few bags in different sizes to see which ones fit their devices best, and consider replacing the bags periodically, particularly if sand has scratched the surface and affected how clearly the device's screen can be seen and its controls can be used.
Beachgoers should place gadgets in bags before they leave home, and try not to remove them until they're back home and have brushed off the sand and water. Remember, to take decent photos at the beach, the phone or camera will have to be unsealed and removed from the bag.
Source: Consumer Reports via PR Newswire
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Why You Buy the Stuff You Buy
An interesting study from the University of Miami School of Business Administration about what motives consumers to buy stuff…
CORAL GABLES, Fla., - Purchasing an attractive product makes consumers feel good about themselves and opens the mind. That is the key finding of a new study on self-affirmation and product choice out of the University of Miami School of Business Administration.
In the study, the results of which will be published in the August 2012 edition of the Journal of Consumer Research, participants were asked to select among different lamps and calculators, after which the researchers measured their self-esteem. The study found that when participants selected a more aesthetically-pleasing lamp, compared to a better-functioning but perhaps boring-looking lamp, they felt better about themselves and, in effect, became more open-minded to considering new points of view. While people tend to go through life with a biased view of information, discrediting ideas that might suggest something negative about themselves or their values, by merely choosing a good looking product, consumers become more open-minded and open to ideas, even those that might suggest they have made a mistake.
"Behavioral economists and psychologists have long known that people tend to throw 'good money after bad' or 'stay the course,' meaning they continue to invest in something even after an initial investment doesn't give them the effect they desire," said Claudia Townsend, an assistant professor of marketing at the University of Miami School of Business, who conducted the research with Sanjay Sood of UCLA. "What our research shows is that purchasing an attractive item causes a person to feel better about themself and this 'affirmation effect' frees them up, mentally, to admit to the error in their ways. The result is that they no longer need to justify their initial bad investment with additional funding and consequently make better decisions."
Like to Shop Online? You’re not Alone!
I love to shop online – eBay, Etsy, and Amazon as well as online versions of brick and mortar stores. I shop for stuff that I can’t find in stores and I’m avid user of online coupons and discounts.
Read through the story below from ShopAtHome.com and then comment and tell me where you shop online!
DENVER - ShopAtHome.com, the largest coupon search engine that connects upwards of 12 million consumers each month to the best deals and cash back savings, today released its first Buy-havior Report. The report, which tracks consumer search habits on the site, found that when consumers search for online coupons and savings,62 percent searched for store-centric deals, 24 percent for product-specific coupons, while only 14 percent search specifically for brand name product discounts online.
Nearly half of U.S. consumers – 88.2 million – will use online coupons and codes during 2012, according to a recent analysis done by eMarketer. By the end of 2013, 96.8 million U.S. adults will have used such discounts. With over 18,000 retailers and a 110 percent cash back guarantee, ShopAtHome.com delivers the most effective shopping experience by combining all savings tools in one online destination – saving these consumers time and money.
An analysis of the report shows:
Savvy spenders are creatures of habit: 73 percent of consumers using ShopAtHome.com used it between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., regardless of the day of the week. Only 18 percent used it after 6:00 p.m.
"Toilet paper" was the most-searched term on the site and has been for the past two months. Consumers are more likely to be searching for deals on items they consistently buy. Half of the top ten searched terms were for consumable goods like toilet paper, laundry detergent, coffee and butter.
Following toilet paper, "laundry detergent" was the next highest search, with 16,307 consumers looking for online savings.
Animal lovers were equally fond of discounts, with 13,120 of online coupon and savings searches done for pet food and supplies.
Of the 62 percent of consumers looking for store-centric savings, Wal-Mart was the most-searched for retailer followed by Kohl's and Target respectively.
Sony was the most-searched for brand out of the 14 percent of consumers searching for brand names. It was searched three times more than the next brand on the list: Swiffer.
New York City residents used the site most followed by Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles and Denver respectively.
SOURCE: ShopAtHome.com via PR Newswire
Read through the story below from ShopAtHome.com and then comment and tell me where you shop online!
DENVER - ShopAtHome.com, the largest coupon search engine that connects upwards of 12 million consumers each month to the best deals and cash back savings, today released its first Buy-havior Report. The report, which tracks consumer search habits on the site, found that when consumers search for online coupons and savings,62 percent searched for store-centric deals, 24 percent for product-specific coupons, while only 14 percent search specifically for brand name product discounts online.
Nearly half of U.S. consumers – 88.2 million – will use online coupons and codes during 2012, according to a recent analysis done by eMarketer. By the end of 2013, 96.8 million U.S. adults will have used such discounts. With over 18,000 retailers and a 110 percent cash back guarantee, ShopAtHome.com delivers the most effective shopping experience by combining all savings tools in one online destination – saving these consumers time and money.
An analysis of the report shows:
Savvy spenders are creatures of habit: 73 percent of consumers using ShopAtHome.com used it between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., regardless of the day of the week. Only 18 percent used it after 6:00 p.m.
"Toilet paper" was the most-searched term on the site and has been for the past two months. Consumers are more likely to be searching for deals on items they consistently buy. Half of the top ten searched terms were for consumable goods like toilet paper, laundry detergent, coffee and butter.
Following toilet paper, "laundry detergent" was the next highest search, with 16,307 consumers looking for online savings.
Animal lovers were equally fond of discounts, with 13,120 of online coupon and savings searches done for pet food and supplies.
Of the 62 percent of consumers looking for store-centric savings, Wal-Mart was the most-searched for retailer followed by Kohl's and Target respectively.
Sony was the most-searched for brand out of the 14 percent of consumers searching for brand names. It was searched three times more than the next brand on the list: Swiffer.
New York City residents used the site most followed by Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles and Denver respectively.
SOURCE: ShopAtHome.com via PR Newswire
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Jack Daniel's And The USO Ask Citizens To Help Send A Message Of Support To Our Troops
Jack Daniel's And The USO Ask Citizens To Help Send A Message Of Support To Our Troops
This one is near and dear to my heart. Please support the troops!
Jack Daniel's is asking people to go online and sign a message of support for our servicemen and women.
By visiting www.JDToastTheTroops.com, people over 21 years of age can sign their own online "toast" card – a message of support – that will be included in USO Care Packages for our troops deployed overseas in packages assembled at upcoming stuffing parties held this summer in Sturgis, SD, and Fort Hood, TX.
The effort is part of the Jack Daniel's/USO "Toast to the Troops" campaign that began in September 2005. In addition to the message of support, the packages will also include items requested by service men and women, such as prepaid international calling cards, toiletries, sunscreen, playing cards, disposable cameras and snacks. More than 160,000 care packages have been sent through "Toast to the Troops."
Due to heightened security, individuals can no longer send letters and packages addressed to "Any Service Member." The Operation USO Care Package program is the best way to send a message of encouragement directly to troops and provide a touch of home. The USO has distributed more than two million care packages since the program's inception in 2003. More information on the Operation USO Care Package program and other USO programs can be found at www.uso.org.
Source: Jack Daniels via PR Newswire
This one is near and dear to my heart. Please support the troops!
Jack Daniel's is asking people to go online and sign a message of support for our servicemen and women.
By visiting www.JDToastTheTroops.com, people over 21 years of age can sign their own online "toast" card – a message of support – that will be included in USO Care Packages for our troops deployed overseas in packages assembled at upcoming stuffing parties held this summer in Sturgis, SD, and Fort Hood, TX.
The effort is part of the Jack Daniel's/USO "Toast to the Troops" campaign that began in September 2005. In addition to the message of support, the packages will also include items requested by service men and women, such as prepaid international calling cards, toiletries, sunscreen, playing cards, disposable cameras and snacks. More than 160,000 care packages have been sent through "Toast to the Troops."
Due to heightened security, individuals can no longer send letters and packages addressed to "Any Service Member." The Operation USO Care Package program is the best way to send a message of encouragement directly to troops and provide a touch of home. The USO has distributed more than two million care packages since the program's inception in 2003. More information on the Operation USO Care Package program and other USO programs can be found at www.uso.org.
Source: Jack Daniels via PR Newswire
Monday, July 9, 2012
Staying asleep is a common problem; Not all treatments are equal
I’ve always been an insomniac. When I was younger, I could stay up all night and function the next day. As I get older, that becomes harder and harder to do. That’s why this study by Consumer Reports caught my attention:
YONKERS, N.Y. - In addition to searching for full-time work, some unemployed Americans may also be looking for a good night's rest. According to a new survey of Consumer Reports' readers, unemployed respondents were more likely to say they had trouble falling and staying asleep than those with jobs - 69 percent and 59 percent respectively.
Employment status aside, the most common problem cited among all respondents was trouble staying asleep, reported by 57 percent of Consumer Reports' 26,451 subscribers. Of those, one in three woke up three or more times during a typical night. When problem sleepers were asked what was keeping them up at night, "work-related stress" was the most common response (47 percent) followed by health problems (28 percent) and financial woes (22 percent).
"For most people, getting to sleep isn't as much of an issue as staying asleep is," said Jamie Hirsh, senior associate editor for Consumer Reports. "Some readers found great success with medication and others said that changes in their lifestyle helped them to sleep through the night."
Consumer Reports' survey also revealed that women and obese people were more likely to report sleep problems than others. While almost 60 percent of respondents fell into the "insomniac" category, the survey also delivered some good news: Most problem sleepers reported finding at least one sleep treatment that helped.
Treating Sleep Problems
Consumer Reports analyzed the responses of more than 15,500 people who reported having problems sleeping 3 or more nights per week - including those who used medication and those who tried alternative methods to treat sleep problems and rated their effectiveness. Prescription sleep aids were found to be the most helpful. But a number of people who tried alternative methods, such as regular exercise, meditation, yoga and deep-breathing exercises, said the methods helped "a lot." This data suggests, at least for some insomniacs, that help is within reach without the side effects of medication.
Forty percent of problem sleepers said they had, at some point, tried over-the-counter sleep aids, and 30 percent took prescription medications. Newer prescription sleeping pills, such as zolpidem (Ambien and generic) and eszopiclone (Lunesta), and older sleep drugs called benzodiazepines, such as temazepam (Restoril and generic), received some of the highest ratings for helpfulness by survey respondents. Almost half of readers who had tried prescription sleep drugs like zolpidem or over-the-counter medications like Tylenol PM reported side effects such as next-day drowsiness.
Given the side effects of sleep medication, Consumer Reports recommends trying behavioral steps, such as waking up at the same time every day, taking time to unwind before bedtime and getting exercise during the day, particularly in the morning, for those looking to improve their sleep cycles. Aside from regular exercise, which 41 percent of problem sleepers had tried, few people overall had tried alternative sleep therapies. Of those who had tried alternative methods, a number of respondents found body practices like meditation and yoga, white-noise machines and diet management to be helpful.
For those looking to upgrade their mattress along with their sleep habits in hopes of a better night's rest, the Consumer Reports' survey found 75 percent of those who bought a new mattress said that it helped them sleep better. Respondents also found that paying more didn't always translate into higher satisfaction, nor did buying from a major retailer.
Finding the Perfect Mattress Match
Comfort doesn't have to cost you a lot. Nor does spending more guarantee a good night's sleep. Lying down on the mattress for at least 10 minutes in the store remains the best way to find the right mattress; however, Consumer Reports also recommends the following advice for those shopping for a new mattress based on the experiences of its survey participants.
Memory foam and air beds satisfy. Subscribers who bought memory foam and inflatable air beds were more likely to tell Consumer Reports they were sleeping better than those who purchased traditional innersprings. Tempur-Pedic memory foam and Sleep Number air beds were most cited as improving sleep.
Price-matching offers are meaningless. Mattress makers offer some lines nationally, but when those brands are sold through major chains such as Macy's, Sears, and Sleepy's - they're for lines exclusive to those chains. And each retailer usually gives the mattress a different name. As a result, it's hard to compare mattresses so price guarantees really don't guarantee much.
A new box spring isn't a must. Though most respondents replaced their box spring with their mattress, roughly 80 percent of those who kept their old box spring reported that they were sleeping better after replacing just their mattress. So if the box spring isn't broken and is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving several hundred dollars.
Haggling helps. Mattresses have hefty markups - that's why 50 percent off "sales" are common. More expensive models have even higher markups. While only 34 percent of respondents tried to negotiate price at the store, those who did saved a median of $115, with almost a third saving $150 or more. Whether or not you haggle, never pay full price and always factor in delivery and haul-away costs.
SOURCE Consumer Reports via PR Newswire
YONKERS, N.Y. - In addition to searching for full-time work, some unemployed Americans may also be looking for a good night's rest. According to a new survey of Consumer Reports' readers, unemployed respondents were more likely to say they had trouble falling and staying asleep than those with jobs - 69 percent and 59 percent respectively.
Employment status aside, the most common problem cited among all respondents was trouble staying asleep, reported by 57 percent of Consumer Reports' 26,451 subscribers. Of those, one in three woke up three or more times during a typical night. When problem sleepers were asked what was keeping them up at night, "work-related stress" was the most common response (47 percent) followed by health problems (28 percent) and financial woes (22 percent).
"For most people, getting to sleep isn't as much of an issue as staying asleep is," said Jamie Hirsh, senior associate editor for Consumer Reports. "Some readers found great success with medication and others said that changes in their lifestyle helped them to sleep through the night."
Consumer Reports' survey also revealed that women and obese people were more likely to report sleep problems than others. While almost 60 percent of respondents fell into the "insomniac" category, the survey also delivered some good news: Most problem sleepers reported finding at least one sleep treatment that helped.
Treating Sleep Problems
Consumer Reports analyzed the responses of more than 15,500 people who reported having problems sleeping 3 or more nights per week - including those who used medication and those who tried alternative methods to treat sleep problems and rated their effectiveness. Prescription sleep aids were found to be the most helpful. But a number of people who tried alternative methods, such as regular exercise, meditation, yoga and deep-breathing exercises, said the methods helped "a lot." This data suggests, at least for some insomniacs, that help is within reach without the side effects of medication.
Forty percent of problem sleepers said they had, at some point, tried over-the-counter sleep aids, and 30 percent took prescription medications. Newer prescription sleeping pills, such as zolpidem (Ambien and generic) and eszopiclone (Lunesta), and older sleep drugs called benzodiazepines, such as temazepam (Restoril and generic), received some of the highest ratings for helpfulness by survey respondents. Almost half of readers who had tried prescription sleep drugs like zolpidem or over-the-counter medications like Tylenol PM reported side effects such as next-day drowsiness.
Given the side effects of sleep medication, Consumer Reports recommends trying behavioral steps, such as waking up at the same time every day, taking time to unwind before bedtime and getting exercise during the day, particularly in the morning, for those looking to improve their sleep cycles. Aside from regular exercise, which 41 percent of problem sleepers had tried, few people overall had tried alternative sleep therapies. Of those who had tried alternative methods, a number of respondents found body practices like meditation and yoga, white-noise machines and diet management to be helpful.
For those looking to upgrade their mattress along with their sleep habits in hopes of a better night's rest, the Consumer Reports' survey found 75 percent of those who bought a new mattress said that it helped them sleep better. Respondents also found that paying more didn't always translate into higher satisfaction, nor did buying from a major retailer.
Finding the Perfect Mattress Match
Comfort doesn't have to cost you a lot. Nor does spending more guarantee a good night's sleep. Lying down on the mattress for at least 10 minutes in the store remains the best way to find the right mattress; however, Consumer Reports also recommends the following advice for those shopping for a new mattress based on the experiences of its survey participants.
Memory foam and air beds satisfy. Subscribers who bought memory foam and inflatable air beds were more likely to tell Consumer Reports they were sleeping better than those who purchased traditional innersprings. Tempur-Pedic memory foam and Sleep Number air beds were most cited as improving sleep.
Price-matching offers are meaningless. Mattress makers offer some lines nationally, but when those brands are sold through major chains such as Macy's, Sears, and Sleepy's - they're for lines exclusive to those chains. And each retailer usually gives the mattress a different name. As a result, it's hard to compare mattresses so price guarantees really don't guarantee much.
A new box spring isn't a must. Though most respondents replaced their box spring with their mattress, roughly 80 percent of those who kept their old box spring reported that they were sleeping better after replacing just their mattress. So if the box spring isn't broken and is still structurally sound, consider keeping it and saving several hundred dollars.
Haggling helps. Mattresses have hefty markups - that's why 50 percent off "sales" are common. More expensive models have even higher markups. While only 34 percent of respondents tried to negotiate price at the store, those who did saved a median of $115, with almost a third saving $150 or more. Whether or not you haggle, never pay full price and always factor in delivery and haul-away costs.
SOURCE Consumer Reports via PR Newswire
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Speaking of Ice Cream: 90 Percent Of Americans Eat Ice Cream Regularly
Speaking of Ice Cream, most Americans like it, and eat it – a lot, so says the California Milk Advisory Board…
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., and MODESTO, Calif. - Summer is in full gear and temperatures are on the rise, what better way to cool off than with California ice cream? (Well besides made-in-Texas Blue Bell?)
California is the nation’s number one ice cream producer, churning out over 142 million gallons of ice-cold creamy goodness each year. (Couldn’t find any stats on Texas ice cream production.) In honor of July Ice Cream Month, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), representing California's more than 1600 dairy families, surveyed consumers to find out just where they find themselves enjoying some good-old fashion ice cream, frozen yogurt and gelato.
Key survey results include:
Over two-thirds of consumers nationwide say they find themselves eating ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato most frequently in front of the TV or on the couch (64 percent).
Women are more likely than men to eat ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato in bed. (Guilty!)
Young adults, ages 18-34, say they find themselves eating ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato on the couch more frequently than others (20 percent).
Maybe it's the drip factor but parents are more likely than non-parents to eat ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato outside (19 percent versus 11 percent, respectively).
Consumers definitely enjoy a good scoop of ice cream on a regular basis. So much so that former California governor, President Ronald Reagan, recognized America's love for ice cream and declared July National Ice Cream Month back in 1984," said Jennifer Giambroni, Director of Communications for the CMAB.
Whether on the couch or outdoors, the results are conclusive that most consumers enjoy a good scoop of ice cream every now and again, so here are a few tricks and tips of the ice cream trade on eating ice cream:
To prevent an ice cream cone from becoming soggy while you eat, drop a mini marshmallow in the bottom of the cone before scooping.
To soften ice cream, transfer it to the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes before serving. A faster option is to use a microwave but be careful of ice cream soup! Place the ice cream in its cardboard container into a microwave set to High: microwave one pint for 10-15 seconds; one quart for 15-25 seconds; and a half-gallon for 30-40 seconds. (Don't use microwave if ice cream is in a plastic container.)
After serving ice cream, return carton to the freezer immediately to help prevent the formation of ice crystals that can occur when ice cream is partially thawed and then re-frozen. This will keep the texture smooth for your next bowl (if it lasts that long).
With about 90 percent of Americans regularly enjoying ice cream, the CMAB puts a twist on the classic summer time ice cream float by simply adding seasonal fruits, a sugar cookie, a dash of cinnamon – and a scoop of California ice cream, of course!
FLOATING BLUEBERRY CALIFORNIA COBBLER
(Recipe developed by Kristina Vänni on behalf of the California Milk Advisory Board)
Makes 1 float:
1-2 scoops California vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup blueberries
½ cup blueberry-flavored soda
1 sugar cookie,
about 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon
In a serving glass (or Mason jar), alternate layers of ice cream and blueberries until glass is about 3/4 full. Pour soda into the glass until it reaches the top and ice cream is floating. Top with crumbled sugar cookie and a dash of cinnamon. Sip and smile!
Source: California Milk Advisory Board via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1gWf4)
We All Scream for Ice Cream (Sundaes)
Here’s an interesting tidbit… According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Profile America… One of our favorite ice cream concoctions was invented on this date (July 8) in 1881 to bypass the law strict Sabbath laws that limited what folks could buy on Sundays. (These laws used to be called “Blue Laws.” The ice cream sundae was the brainchild of drug store owner Edward Berner of Two Rivers, Wisconsin.
Berner was unable to fill a customer's order for a flavored soda water because soda couldn’t be sold on a Sunday back then. Berner improvised, putting chocolate syrup — then used only to flavor soda water — on top of ice cream in a dish. The result was the first ice cream "Sunday."
While drug store soda fountains are gone, there are more than 11,500 ice cream shops across the country, keeping over 90,000 employees busy making yummy delights for customers worth $3.2 billion a year.
While most blue laws have been repealed some still exists… for example, here in Texas Car dealerships must remain closed on either Saturday or Sunday, at the option of the dealer. Many state liquor laws also restrict or even forbid the sale of alcohol on Sundays.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1hbw1)
Saturday, July 7, 2012
How to Recycle Old Batteries
Got lots of old batteries and cell phones laying and round and don’t know what to do with them? Take ‘em to a Call2Recycle® center, located at many common retailers. Call2Recycle is the only no cost rechargeable battery and cell phone collection program in North America.
Since 1996, over 70 million pounds of rechargeable batteries have been collected through Call2Recycle. It has established a network of 30,000 collection sites throughout the U.S. and Canada. Click here to find a collection site near you.
Various federal, state and provincial regulations govern the proper disposal of rechargeable batteries and cellphones, naming Call2Recycle in official legislation as the collection method for eco-safe rechargeable battery and cell phone reclamation and recycling. Call2Recycle is the first battery program to obtain Responsible Recycling® (R2) certification and e-Steward recognition by the Basel Action Network (BAN) and upholds strict third-party standards for environmental safety and social responsibility.
Since 1996, over 70 million pounds of rechargeable batteries have been collected through Call2Recycle. It has established a network of 30,000 collection sites throughout the U.S. and Canada. Click here to find a collection site near you.
Various federal, state and provincial regulations govern the proper disposal of rechargeable batteries and cellphones, naming Call2Recycle in official legislation as the collection method for eco-safe rechargeable battery and cell phone reclamation and recycling. Call2Recycle is the first battery program to obtain Responsible Recycling® (R2) certification and e-Steward recognition by the Basel Action Network (BAN) and upholds strict third-party standards for environmental safety and social responsibility.
Friday, July 6, 2012
Power Outage Protection Tips for Your Home
In Texas we’re accustomed to severe weather. But just because we’re accustomed to it, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be prepared for it. Extreme heat or cold can knock out power as quickly as rain or high winds. The experts at Kohler Generators have developed a list of important things you can do to ensure the safety and security of your family every power outage.
Develop a Weather Emergency Plan. The plan should include a list of important phone numbers in case you need to quickly evacuate your home (i.e. doctors, family members, etc.). The plan should also include an evacuation route, as well as an established meeting place in case you lose communication with loved ones.
Pack a Drop Bag. Grab a backpack or purchase a large plastic bucket with a lid from a local hardware store or home center and stuff it with three days' worth of food and water. Other items should include multiple flashlights, battery powered/hand-cranked radio, a weather radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, money, medications and a CD or USB drive containing important documents. Store the kit in a place that is easily accessible in an emergency situation. For more tips on how to prepare for weather-related emergencies like hurricanes, floods, earthquakes or tornadoes, visit the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH). http://www.flash.org/
Power down. Turn off major appliances such as water heaters, stoves and air conditioning units. Unplug other appliances such as TVs, stereos, microwaves and computers. This will prevent damage to appliances and possible overloads to the system when power is restored.
Leave one light on. That way, you will be able to see when power is restored to your home.
Familiarize yourself with your main electrical panel. You may have to turn off the main breaker or have to reset circuit breakers after an outage.
Stay away from fallen wires, flooded areas and debris. Treat all down wires and anything touching them as though they have electricity running through it.
If you're running a portable generator, be sure to use properly rated extension cords (electrical load and length). Also, make sure the portable generator is properly vented to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not place a portable generator in your home or an enclosed space with limited ventilation like a garage or a screened porch.Do not connect portable generators directly to the electrical system of your home. Electricity could flow backward into the power lines and endanger lives. Either have a qualified electrician perform the work or plug appliances directly into the portable generator.
Inspect the area around your electricity meter. If you detect or suspect any damage, call your local utility provider.
If you’re prone to lose power at the first sign of rain and can’t be without electricity for more than a couple of minutes, consider installing a commercial-grade, automatic generator for your home. An automatic generator or standby generator is permanently installed outside the home similar to a central air conditioning unit. It runs on natural gas or propane and hooks up to existing gas lines. Standby generators turn on automatically when the power shuts off. A transfer switch constantly monitors utility power and transfers the electrical load to the generator if power is lost, protecting the home even if the home owner is away. A standby generator can power critical and sophisticated appliances and systems in your home, including lights, heating/cooling systems, refrigerators, sump pumps, and home security systems.
To determine if a standby generator is right for you, be sure to do your homework and look for a unit that offers some of the following:
A commercial-grade engine that provides clean, consistent power, handles heavy loads and powers up quickly.
Make sure to purchase a standby generator with a minimum five-year warranty.
Don't forget about appearance. A standby generator sits outside your home, so look for a unit with a bold, clean look that is corrosion resistant.
Some units have remote monitoring/operating capabilities. This is important for those who spend time away from home.
Source: Kohler Generators via PR Newswire
Develop a Weather Emergency Plan. The plan should include a list of important phone numbers in case you need to quickly evacuate your home (i.e. doctors, family members, etc.). The plan should also include an evacuation route, as well as an established meeting place in case you lose communication with loved ones.
Pack a Drop Bag. Grab a backpack or purchase a large plastic bucket with a lid from a local hardware store or home center and stuff it with three days' worth of food and water. Other items should include multiple flashlights, battery powered/hand-cranked radio, a weather radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, money, medications and a CD or USB drive containing important documents. Store the kit in a place that is easily accessible in an emergency situation. For more tips on how to prepare for weather-related emergencies like hurricanes, floods, earthquakes or tornadoes, visit the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH). http://www.flash.org/
Power down. Turn off major appliances such as water heaters, stoves and air conditioning units. Unplug other appliances such as TVs, stereos, microwaves and computers. This will prevent damage to appliances and possible overloads to the system when power is restored.
Leave one light on. That way, you will be able to see when power is restored to your home.
Familiarize yourself with your main electrical panel. You may have to turn off the main breaker or have to reset circuit breakers after an outage.
Stay away from fallen wires, flooded areas and debris. Treat all down wires and anything touching them as though they have electricity running through it.
If you're running a portable generator, be sure to use properly rated extension cords (electrical load and length). Also, make sure the portable generator is properly vented to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not place a portable generator in your home or an enclosed space with limited ventilation like a garage or a screened porch.Do not connect portable generators directly to the electrical system of your home. Electricity could flow backward into the power lines and endanger lives. Either have a qualified electrician perform the work or plug appliances directly into the portable generator.
Inspect the area around your electricity meter. If you detect or suspect any damage, call your local utility provider.
If you’re prone to lose power at the first sign of rain and can’t be without electricity for more than a couple of minutes, consider installing a commercial-grade, automatic generator for your home. An automatic generator or standby generator is permanently installed outside the home similar to a central air conditioning unit. It runs on natural gas or propane and hooks up to existing gas lines. Standby generators turn on automatically when the power shuts off. A transfer switch constantly monitors utility power and transfers the electrical load to the generator if power is lost, protecting the home even if the home owner is away. A standby generator can power critical and sophisticated appliances and systems in your home, including lights, heating/cooling systems, refrigerators, sump pumps, and home security systems.
To determine if a standby generator is right for you, be sure to do your homework and look for a unit that offers some of the following:
A commercial-grade engine that provides clean, consistent power, handles heavy loads and powers up quickly.
Make sure to purchase a standby generator with a minimum five-year warranty.
Don't forget about appearance. A standby generator sits outside your home, so look for a unit with a bold, clean look that is corrosion resistant.
Some units have remote monitoring/operating capabilities. This is important for those who spend time away from home.
Source: Kohler Generators via PR Newswire
Remodeling Resource
If you need some ideas on remodeling your home, check out the new blog by A&E's Roger Hazard. Roger Hazard's Design Survival Guide shares tips, ideas, and resources online to help inspire “homeowners, homebuilders, kitchen remodelers and others who love great kitchens.” Hazard is a Texas designer, which is one of the reasons I like him.
"Not everyone has the luxury or budget to hire a design consultant. With Roger's blog, you get professional advice to create appealing living spaces," says Custom Cupboards president Mael Hernandez. Custom Cupboards is sponsoring the Hazard’s blog.
According to the news release: “Readers and newsletter subscribers will learn how to add functionality and personality to their homes through regular features:
Design Process – A step-by-step examination of what goes in to creating a functional, beautiful space. By breaking the renovation process into manageable pieces, Roger shows the planning and execution that go into every successful remodel.
Kitchen Inspiration Pinboard – featuring Hazard's favorite emerging styles and how to pull together a cohesive look using cabinets, flooring, countertops, color, furniture, and accessories – with complete sourcing information.
Deconstructing a Kitchen – You know a great design when you see one, but what makes a design great? In this feature, Roger will "deconstruct" a completed design to explain why it works.
Functionality – Everyone needs more storage. Roger highlights technology, tools, and planning concepts that will maximize the function and capacity of your space.”
“I want the newsletter to help empower homeowners, by giving them a fuller understanding of this process and inspiring them to seek out great, personal design,” says Hazard.
From Austin, Texas, Hazard is an internationally known designer and TV's original home stager on the Emmy-nominated "Sell This House," "Sell This House: Extreme," and "Move This House." Hazard is a featured columnist for The Statesman in Austin, Texas.
Source: Custom Cupboards via PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1gWz0)
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Made in the USA Manufacturers
In celebration of the 4th of July, let’s support made in the USA manufacturers! Check out this year’s list of Made in the USA Hall of Fame winners as named by the Made in the USA Foundation. The Made in the USA Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 1989 through matching grants from the United Auto Works and Ford Motor Company. The Foundation is dedicated to promoting products made in the United States, developing legislation supporting U.S. businesses and industry, and pursuing litigation against those misusing the "Made in the USA" label. The Foundation championed the Country of Origin Labeling Act for food and the American Automobile Labeling Act. Both were passed into law.
2012 Hall of Fame Winners:
Solar World-- SolarWorld Industries America Inc. is the largest U.S. maker of silicon solar cells and panels. SolarWorld, has led the U.S. manufacturers' complaints against Chinese subsides. It employs 1,000 workers in Hillsboro, Oregon, the largest solar cell manufacturing facility in the United States. SolarWorld has been manufacturing solar panels in Californiasince 1975.
Chevy Volt-- The Chevy Volt is the most fuel-efficient compact car with a gasoline engine sold in the United States, as rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Volt operates as a pure battery electric vehicle until its battery capacity drops, then its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range. The Volt won the 2011 Green Car of the Year award, the 2011 North American Car of the Year and 2012 Car of the Year Award in Europe.
Zero Motorcycles-- Zero Motorcycles Inc., an American manufacturer of electric motorcycles, was founded in 2006 near Santa Cruz, California, by Neal Saiki, a former NASA engineer. Each Zero motorcycle is optimized from the ground up to leverage the revolutionary electric powertrain and uses a specially designed rigid, aircraft-grade aluminum frame to minimize weight. Zero launched a line of 2012 bikes specifically designed for police patrols and security agencies.
Herman Miller-- Founded in Zeeland, Michigan in 1905, Herman Miller is a major American manufacturer of office furniture and equipment, as well as furniture for the home. It is notable as one of the first companies to produce modern 20th century furniture. Among classic Herman Miller products are the Equa chair, Aeron chair, Noguchi table and the classic Eames Lounge Chair and ottoman. Herman Miller furniture is also credited with the invention of the office cubicle.
Channel Islands Surfboards-- Since 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been dedicated to performance and quality through hard work, innovation, and originality. Over the last 43 years, Channel Islands has grown from a local grass-roots operation to a cutting edge organization, catering to the best surfers in the world.
The driving force behind the company's success is greatly attributed to its star-studded team that includes some of the best surfers on the globe, including Kelly Slater. The original brains behind Channel Islands surfboards is pro shaper Al Merrick. Channel Islands Surfboards is based in Santa Barbara, California.
Viking-- Viking originated the professional segment of kitchen appliances with its introduction of the first restaurant-grade gas range for home use in 1987. Based in Greenwood, Mississippi, Viking has expanded with its increased success and currently manufactures ranges and cooktops in many sizes and colors.
Armstrong Tools-- The Armstrong Brothers Tool Company was founded in 1890 by four brothers, the sons of a Scottish immigrant blacksmith.
From its modest beginning the company launched into expansion that's continued to today, more than 100 years later, with a product line which includes nearly 5,000 items of mechanic's tools, pipe and tubing tools, machine shop accessories, and cutting tools. In 1994, after 104 years of private ownership by the Armstrong family, the company was acquired by the Danaher Corporation.
Tito's Handmade Vodka-- Tito's Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas' first and oldest legal distillery. Tito's is made in small batches in an old fashioned pot still by Tito Beveridge and distilled six times. Sales and distribution boomed in 2001 after Tito's Handmade Vodka unanimously won the Double Gold Medal for vodka at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, beating out 71 high-priced vodkas. Wine Enthusiast Magazine rated Tito's a score of 95. By contrast, other top-shelf vodkas, Ketel One, Grey Goose, and Belvedere scored in the 80s.
McIntosh Amplifiers-- McIntosh was founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh. The first McIntosh amplifier included the patented Unity Coupled Circuit, still used in current products. McIntosh amplifiers were used at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969. Home Theater Hi Fidelity said, the McIntosh "amplifier will drive any speaker to its utmost capabilities. . . . it is difficult to believe from its measured performance that the McIntosh MC275 was designed almost half a century ago." John Atkinson of Stereophile Magazine, said, "Good audio engineering is timeless."
Beaulieu Vineyard-- When Georges and Fernande de Latour first traveled to the heart of Napa Valley in 1900, Fernande took one look at the lovely Rutherford expanse and exclaimed "beau lieu," [bow loo] or "beautiful place." He also began selling wine to the Catholic Church, establishing a strong relationship that would allow Beaulieu Vineyard to become the onlyNapa Valley winery to remain in business during Prohibition. Wine critic Robert Parker awarded 95 points to a Beaulieu 2007 Reserve Cab. Parker said this wine "is the greatest BV Private Reserve made since 1970."
California Olive Ranch-- The California Olive Ranch has 10,000 acres of olives grown for olive oil. Olives were a part of the ranch's history, as far back as the 1880s, when they grew Mission olives for table and oil production. They found that many of the old trees were still viable for production, so they began by harvesting the original trees and then expanded the grove, gradually adding other varieties. The California Olive Ranch's extra virgin olive oils have won more than 38 awards in the past 7 years.
Google-- Google was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while both attended Stanford University. Google was first incorporated in 1998, and its initial public offering followed in 2004. The company's mission statement from the outset was "to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." The company's unofficial slogan is "Don't be evil." Google just released its first "Made in the USA" hardware: the Nexus Q, a video and audio streaming device.
Worksman Bicycles--in 1898 when Morris Worksman established Worksman Cycles, his belief was that a well-designed three-wheeled cycle could replace the horse and wagon by providing a less expensive and more reliable way to move people and products. America's oldest bicycle manufacturer, Worksman manufactures industrial and recreational bicycles inBrooklyn, New York.
Kala Eyewear-- Handmade in Northern California, Kala Eyewear crafts handmade plastic frames in classic styles and frames in a wide range of colors and shapes: Round frames, oval frames, and square frames.
Dodge Dart-- Mike Hanley of Cars.com raved, "The 2013 Dart is an athletic, refined and highly customizable sedan that gives Dodge some much-needed respect in the compact-car market. The brand set its sights on the class leaders, and it hit the bull's-eye." Every Dart has 10 airbags. Car and Driver raved, "the Dart's cabin feels more like a sports sedan's than a budget-conscious family hauler's."
Boyd Lighting-- William Boyd opened Boyd Lighting in San Francisco in 1920. Boyd Lighting is a family of luxury lighting brands renowned for excellence in quality and design. For over 90 years, Boyd has been bringing the architectural and interior design community premier lighting fixtures that beautifully complement exclusive interiors. Handcrafted designs, fine materials, and excellent customer service continue to be the hallmark of Boyd's lighting collections. Boyd Lighting won the Edison Award in 1996.
Zometool-- Zometool is a plastic construction set produced in Denver, Colorado. It is perhaps best described as a "space-frame construction set." Its elements consist of small connector nodes and struts of various colors. Zometool won the Child Magazine "the Year's Top Toys," award, Dr. Toy's 10 Best Toys and the Parents' Choice Award.
Marin French Cheese Co-- The Marin French Cheese Company is a manufacturer of artisan cheese located in Marin County, California. The company was founded in 1865 and produces cheeses under the Rouge et Noir brand name. In 2005, the company's Triple Creme Brie won top honors at the World Cheese Awards in London. Marin also won the America's National Trophy - Best American Cheese, for its Yellow Buck Chevre Goat's Milk Camembert, and many of other awards.
Master Lock-- Master Lock is recognized around the world as the enduring name in padlocks. Founded in 1921, Master Lock is the largest manufacturer of padlocks in the world selling 50 million locks a year. In 2012, Master Lock President John Heppner participated in the "Insourcing American Jobs Forum" at the White House. President Obama visited Master Lock this year and praised the company for moving production back to the United States.
Letarte Swimwear-- Letarte is a Maui-based brand created by sisters Lisa Letarte Cabrinha and Michele Letarte Ross. The Hawaiian authenticity and exclusivity of the Letarte label have blended a bohemian island essence with chic global aesthetics that the sister duo have made recognizable around the globe. Designer Lisa Letarte Cabrinha, who lives in Maui, infuses her island lifestyle into Letarte's signature trademarked prints, intricate adornments and lavish detail. Letarte's swimsuits have been featured in Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue every year for the past ten years.
You can find Made in the USA retailers here.
SOURCE Made in the USA Foundation via PR Newswire
2012 Hall of Fame Winners:
Solar World-- SolarWorld Industries America Inc. is the largest U.S. maker of silicon solar cells and panels. SolarWorld, has led the U.S. manufacturers' complaints against Chinese subsides. It employs 1,000 workers in Hillsboro, Oregon, the largest solar cell manufacturing facility in the United States. SolarWorld has been manufacturing solar panels in Californiasince 1975.
Chevy Volt-- The Chevy Volt is the most fuel-efficient compact car with a gasoline engine sold in the United States, as rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Volt operates as a pure battery electric vehicle until its battery capacity drops, then its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range. The Volt won the 2011 Green Car of the Year award, the 2011 North American Car of the Year and 2012 Car of the Year Award in Europe.
Zero Motorcycles-- Zero Motorcycles Inc., an American manufacturer of electric motorcycles, was founded in 2006 near Santa Cruz, California, by Neal Saiki, a former NASA engineer. Each Zero motorcycle is optimized from the ground up to leverage the revolutionary electric powertrain and uses a specially designed rigid, aircraft-grade aluminum frame to minimize weight. Zero launched a line of 2012 bikes specifically designed for police patrols and security agencies.
Herman Miller-- Founded in Zeeland, Michigan in 1905, Herman Miller is a major American manufacturer of office furniture and equipment, as well as furniture for the home. It is notable as one of the first companies to produce modern 20th century furniture. Among classic Herman Miller products are the Equa chair, Aeron chair, Noguchi table and the classic Eames Lounge Chair and ottoman. Herman Miller furniture is also credited with the invention of the office cubicle.
Channel Islands Surfboards-- Since 1969, Channel Islands Surfboards has been dedicated to performance and quality through hard work, innovation, and originality. Over the last 43 years, Channel Islands has grown from a local grass-roots operation to a cutting edge organization, catering to the best surfers in the world.
The driving force behind the company's success is greatly attributed to its star-studded team that includes some of the best surfers on the globe, including Kelly Slater. The original brains behind Channel Islands surfboards is pro shaper Al Merrick. Channel Islands Surfboards is based in Santa Barbara, California.
Viking-- Viking originated the professional segment of kitchen appliances with its introduction of the first restaurant-grade gas range for home use in 1987. Based in Greenwood, Mississippi, Viking has expanded with its increased success and currently manufactures ranges and cooktops in many sizes and colors.
Armstrong Tools-- The Armstrong Brothers Tool Company was founded in 1890 by four brothers, the sons of a Scottish immigrant blacksmith.
From its modest beginning the company launched into expansion that's continued to today, more than 100 years later, with a product line which includes nearly 5,000 items of mechanic's tools, pipe and tubing tools, machine shop accessories, and cutting tools. In 1994, after 104 years of private ownership by the Armstrong family, the company was acquired by the Danaher Corporation.
Tito's Handmade Vodka-- Tito's Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas' first and oldest legal distillery. Tito's is made in small batches in an old fashioned pot still by Tito Beveridge and distilled six times. Sales and distribution boomed in 2001 after Tito's Handmade Vodka unanimously won the Double Gold Medal for vodka at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, beating out 71 high-priced vodkas. Wine Enthusiast Magazine rated Tito's a score of 95. By contrast, other top-shelf vodkas, Ketel One, Grey Goose, and Belvedere scored in the 80s.
McIntosh Amplifiers-- McIntosh was founded in 1949 by Frank McIntosh. The first McIntosh amplifier included the patented Unity Coupled Circuit, still used in current products. McIntosh amplifiers were used at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969. Home Theater Hi Fidelity said, the McIntosh "amplifier will drive any speaker to its utmost capabilities. . . . it is difficult to believe from its measured performance that the McIntosh MC275 was designed almost half a century ago." John Atkinson of Stereophile Magazine, said, "Good audio engineering is timeless."
Beaulieu Vineyard-- When Georges and Fernande de Latour first traveled to the heart of Napa Valley in 1900, Fernande took one look at the lovely Rutherford expanse and exclaimed "beau lieu," [bow loo] or "beautiful place." He also began selling wine to the Catholic Church, establishing a strong relationship that would allow Beaulieu Vineyard to become the onlyNapa Valley winery to remain in business during Prohibition. Wine critic Robert Parker awarded 95 points to a Beaulieu 2007 Reserve Cab. Parker said this wine "is the greatest BV Private Reserve made since 1970."
California Olive Ranch-- The California Olive Ranch has 10,000 acres of olives grown for olive oil. Olives were a part of the ranch's history, as far back as the 1880s, when they grew Mission olives for table and oil production. They found that many of the old trees were still viable for production, so they began by harvesting the original trees and then expanded the grove, gradually adding other varieties. The California Olive Ranch's extra virgin olive oils have won more than 38 awards in the past 7 years.
Google-- Google was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while both attended Stanford University. Google was first incorporated in 1998, and its initial public offering followed in 2004. The company's mission statement from the outset was "to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." The company's unofficial slogan is "Don't be evil." Google just released its first "Made in the USA" hardware: the Nexus Q, a video and audio streaming device.
Worksman Bicycles--in 1898 when Morris Worksman established Worksman Cycles, his belief was that a well-designed three-wheeled cycle could replace the horse and wagon by providing a less expensive and more reliable way to move people and products. America's oldest bicycle manufacturer, Worksman manufactures industrial and recreational bicycles inBrooklyn, New York.
Kala Eyewear-- Handmade in Northern California, Kala Eyewear crafts handmade plastic frames in classic styles and frames in a wide range of colors and shapes: Round frames, oval frames, and square frames.
Dodge Dart-- Mike Hanley of Cars.com raved, "The 2013 Dart is an athletic, refined and highly customizable sedan that gives Dodge some much-needed respect in the compact-car market. The brand set its sights on the class leaders, and it hit the bull's-eye." Every Dart has 10 airbags. Car and Driver raved, "the Dart's cabin feels more like a sports sedan's than a budget-conscious family hauler's."
Boyd Lighting-- William Boyd opened Boyd Lighting in San Francisco in 1920. Boyd Lighting is a family of luxury lighting brands renowned for excellence in quality and design. For over 90 years, Boyd has been bringing the architectural and interior design community premier lighting fixtures that beautifully complement exclusive interiors. Handcrafted designs, fine materials, and excellent customer service continue to be the hallmark of Boyd's lighting collections. Boyd Lighting won the Edison Award in 1996.
Zometool-- Zometool is a plastic construction set produced in Denver, Colorado. It is perhaps best described as a "space-frame construction set." Its elements consist of small connector nodes and struts of various colors. Zometool won the Child Magazine "the Year's Top Toys," award, Dr. Toy's 10 Best Toys and the Parents' Choice Award.
Marin French Cheese Co-- The Marin French Cheese Company is a manufacturer of artisan cheese located in Marin County, California. The company was founded in 1865 and produces cheeses under the Rouge et Noir brand name. In 2005, the company's Triple Creme Brie won top honors at the World Cheese Awards in London. Marin also won the America's National Trophy - Best American Cheese, for its Yellow Buck Chevre Goat's Milk Camembert, and many of other awards.
Master Lock-- Master Lock is recognized around the world as the enduring name in padlocks. Founded in 1921, Master Lock is the largest manufacturer of padlocks in the world selling 50 million locks a year. In 2012, Master Lock President John Heppner participated in the "Insourcing American Jobs Forum" at the White House. President Obama visited Master Lock this year and praised the company for moving production back to the United States.
Letarte Swimwear-- Letarte is a Maui-based brand created by sisters Lisa Letarte Cabrinha and Michele Letarte Ross. The Hawaiian authenticity and exclusivity of the Letarte label have blended a bohemian island essence with chic global aesthetics that the sister duo have made recognizable around the globe. Designer Lisa Letarte Cabrinha, who lives in Maui, infuses her island lifestyle into Letarte's signature trademarked prints, intricate adornments and lavish detail. Letarte's swimsuits have been featured in Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue every year for the past ten years.
You can find Made in the USA retailers here.
SOURCE Made in the USA Foundation via PR Newswire
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Easy Roasted Vegetables
With summer in full spring, I love to hit the various farmers markets and take advantage of all the wonderful, locally grown vegetables. My two favorite markets are Chestnut Square, which is located in McKinney’s historic district and Georgia’s Farmer’s Market, near Downtown Plano.
During my swing through these great places yesterday, I picked up summer squash, snap beans, tomatoes, cucumbers among other delish goodies. I usually pick up enough for a couple of meals as I like to eat veggies as fresh as possible. The difference in taste is incredible.
Roasting is the quickest and most flavorful way to cook fresh veggies. Prep time is a mere five or six minutes – however long it takes for you to slice a squash. I use a cake pan and load it with four or five different vegetables. I try to make sure that there is at least one green vegetable, one yellow and one orange or red. I place about two servings of each in pan, mounding them in separate piles. I then brush them liberally with olive oil. Cover with foil and cook at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes and you have an amazing, healthy side dish or meal.
In this dish, I roasted broccoli, small yellow, orange and red peppers, summer squash, fresh snap beans and grape tomatoes. Earlier, I’d mixed olive oil with minced garlic and let that sit for a couple of hours. When I was ready to cook, I poured the mixture over the veggies.
In this version, I used Brussels sprouts, summer squash, fresh snap beans and carrots. I brushed the veggies with olive oil and then seasoned with Weber’s garlic and herb seasoning.
Eating healthy never tasted so good!
During my swing through these great places yesterday, I picked up summer squash, snap beans, tomatoes, cucumbers among other delish goodies. I usually pick up enough for a couple of meals as I like to eat veggies as fresh as possible. The difference in taste is incredible.
Roasting is the quickest and most flavorful way to cook fresh veggies. Prep time is a mere five or six minutes – however long it takes for you to slice a squash. I use a cake pan and load it with four or five different vegetables. I try to make sure that there is at least one green vegetable, one yellow and one orange or red. I place about two servings of each in pan, mounding them in separate piles. I then brush them liberally with olive oil. Cover with foil and cook at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes and you have an amazing, healthy side dish or meal.
In this dish, I roasted broccoli, small yellow, orange and red peppers, summer squash, fresh snap beans and grape tomatoes. Earlier, I’d mixed olive oil with minced garlic and let that sit for a couple of hours. When I was ready to cook, I poured the mixture over the veggies.
In this version, I used Brussels sprouts, summer squash, fresh snap beans and carrots. I brushed the veggies with olive oil and then seasoned with Weber’s garlic and herb seasoning.
Eating healthy never tasted so good!
Fun Fact: Quenching Summer Thirst
n the past, hot summer days meant that some enterprising youngsters in the neighborhood would set up a lemonade stand at five cents a glass or the family would share a pitcher of iced tea on the front porch to cool off. While the summer heat does call for more to drink, Americans have a powerful thirst all year long. Today, the drink of choice is a soft drink, usually carbonated. As a result, we each drink about 49 gallons of soft drinks annually. And the increasing popularity of bottled water has lead to an even greater increase. In 1980, we each drank about 2 1/2 gallons of bottled water. Now that figure is over 29 gallons a year. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau, online at www.census.gov.
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1goOu)
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1goOu)
July is National Hot Dog Month
To celebrate the start of July's National Hot Dog Month, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) is proud to announce the winner of its t-shirt slogan contest. 'Hot Dogs: Relish the Moment' was America's top choice for the Council slogan, beating seven other finalists in a Facebook poll. Gadi Lefkowitz of Baltimore, MD, who submitted the winning slogan, wins a $250 gift certificate to the grocery store of his choosing to build the perfect summer picnic and a custom designed t-shirt with his slogan immortalized on it.
Contest runner ups were:
1st runner up: 'Make the Dog Days of Summer a Footlong' by Joe Lilli
2nd runner up: 'We Know How the Sausage Gets Made' by Susan Schonfeld
They will receive $150 and $100 gift certificates to their favorite grocery store respectively and each will get a t-shirt with their slogan. Altogether the contest drew more than 225 unique entries from around the country.
"The creativity and enthusiasm of hot dog fans is nothing short of amazing," said NHDSC President and 'Queen of Wien' Janet Riley. "Just as there are millions of ways to top a hot dog and everyone has their favorites, there were almost too many good slogans to choose from and the online voting was very tight."
The contest results were announced just as the Fourth of July week was about to begin – a week when Americans will eat more than 150 million hot dogs. That's just part of the seven billion hot dogs that Americans eat between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
"There's no better month for hot dog fans than July," said Riley. "Whether out at a ballgame, backyard barbecue or celebrating America's birthday, hot dogs are the perfect all-American food."
For more information about hot dogs and sausages including the winning t-shirt designs, visit the Council's website at http://www.hot-dog.org/ and Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NHDSC. For hot dog videos including proper hot dog etiquette, visit our youtube channel at http://www.youtube.com/hotdogcouncil.
Established in 1994, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council conducts scientific research to benefit hot dog and sausage manufacturers. The Council also serves as an information resource to consumers and media on issues related to quality, safety, nutrition and preparation of hot dogs.
Source: National Hot Dog and Sausage Council via PR Newswire
Contest runner ups were:
1st runner up: 'Make the Dog Days of Summer a Footlong' by Joe Lilli
2nd runner up: 'We Know How the Sausage Gets Made' by Susan Schonfeld
They will receive $150 and $100 gift certificates to their favorite grocery store respectively and each will get a t-shirt with their slogan. Altogether the contest drew more than 225 unique entries from around the country.
"The creativity and enthusiasm of hot dog fans is nothing short of amazing," said NHDSC President and 'Queen of Wien' Janet Riley. "Just as there are millions of ways to top a hot dog and everyone has their favorites, there were almost too many good slogans to choose from and the online voting was very tight."
The contest results were announced just as the Fourth of July week was about to begin – a week when Americans will eat more than 150 million hot dogs. That's just part of the seven billion hot dogs that Americans eat between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
"There's no better month for hot dog fans than July," said Riley. "Whether out at a ballgame, backyard barbecue or celebrating America's birthday, hot dogs are the perfect all-American food."
For more information about hot dogs and sausages including the winning t-shirt designs, visit the Council's website at http://www.hot-dog.org/ and Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NHDSC. For hot dog videos including proper hot dog etiquette, visit our youtube channel at http://www.youtube.com/hotdogcouncil.
Established in 1994, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council conducts scientific research to benefit hot dog and sausage manufacturers. The Council also serves as an information resource to consumers and media on issues related to quality, safety, nutrition and preparation of hot dogs.
Source: National Hot Dog and Sausage Council via PR Newswire
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