information

Companies hiring this week

2011-12-08T10:44:00.000-08:00

10 companies hiring the week of Dec. 5, 20111. Aon
1. Aon
Industry: HR/consulting
Sample job titles: Producers (P&C), benefits (H&W) consultants, reinsurance analysts, IT, finance
2. Chico's FAS
Industry: Women's apparel retail sales/marketing
Sample job titles: Retail sales, corporate positions, some seasonal
3. Fresenius Medical Care North America
Industry: Health care
Sample job titles: Clinical managers, acute-care registered nurses
4. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Industry: Finance
Sample job titles: Financial advisers
5. New York Life Insurance
Industry: Insurance
Sample job titles: Sales, management
6. Sears/Kmart
Industry: Retail
Sample job titles: Retail sales, repair technicians, store managers
7. ServiceMaster
Industry: Residential and commercial service
Sample job titles: Customer service representatives, residential and commercial sales, technicians, trainers, management positions
8. State Farm
Industry: Insurance
Sample job titles: Insurance sales representative, customer service representative
9. Tango Transport
Industry: Transportation
Sample job titles: Truck drivers
10. Wells Fargo
Industry: Banking/finance
Sample job titles: Tellers, personal bankers, customer service representatives, underwriters

15 companies hiring for the holidays

2011-12-01T07:19:00.000-08:00

15 companies hiring for the holidays

1. Aeropostale
Industry: Retail, fashion
Holiday job openings: 2,000+
Sample job titles: District managers, store managers, assistant managers, retail associates / role models
Location: Nationwide and Canada

2. A.M. Castle & Co.
Industry: Metals distribution/industrial/manufacturing
Holiday job openings: 50+
Sample job titles: Territory manager, inside sales representative, director of strategic sourcing, warehouse operator
Location: Nationwide

3. ANN INC. (Ann Taylor/LOFT)
Industry: Retail
Holiday job openings: 3,000-5,000
Sample job titles: Sales associates
Location: Nationwide

4. APAC Customer Services
Industry: Customer service, telecom
Number of openings: 250
Sample job titles: Customer service representative
Location: Ariz., Iowa, Fla., N.Y., Texas, Wisc.

5. DialAmerica
Industry: Telemarketing
Holiday job openings: 1,000
Sample job titles: Customer service agents, contact center sales agents for health care, financial services and Sirius satellite radio programs, team leaders trainers
Location: Calif., Fla., Ga., Ill., Neb., N.J., N.Y., Ohio, Penn., S.C., Tenn., Texas

6. Diamond National Adjusting, LLC
Industry: Adjusting/appraising
Holiday job openings 50
Sample job titles: Insurance adjuster/ appraiser
Location: Ala., Ariz., Ark., Calif., Colo., Fla., Ill., Ind., Iowa, Kan., Ky., La., Mich., Mo., Neb., Nev., N.M., Ohio, Okla., Texas

7. Helzberg Diamonds
Industry: Retail
Holiday job openings: 100+
Sample job titles: Retail sales associate, part time kiosk sales
Location: Nationwide

8. Headway Workforce Solutions
Industry: Workforce Solutions
Holiday job openings: 11,000+
Sample job titles: Store sales associates, store managers, assistant store managers, warehouse (distribution), loss prevention, call center, regional area supervisors, and retail corporate level positions.
Location: Nationwide

9. Massage Envy
Industry: Health and wellness
Holiday job openings: 2,500
Sample job titles: Sales associate, massage therapist, esthetician, clinic manager
Location: Nationwide

10. Medcor, Inc.
Industry: Occupational health care, health care
Holiday job openings: 50
Sample job titles: Registered nurse, paramedic, licensed practical nurse, IT developer
Location: Ill., Texas, N.M.

11. The Men's Wearhouse
Industry: Retail
Holiday job openings: 70+
Sample job titles: Sales consultant, sales manager
Location: Nationwide

12. Rue 21
Industry: Retail
Holiday job openings: 100+
Sample job titles: Retail: District manager, store manager, retail sales associate; Corporate: merchandising, marketing, finance, HR, recruiting
Location: Retail positions nationwide; Corporate positions in Pittsburgh

13. The Salvation Army
Industry: Non-profit
Holiday job openings: 80+
Sample job titles: Store manager, assistant store manager, production associate, retail clerk, cashier, associate counselor, resource development manager, intake coordinator
Locations: Nationwide

14. Sleepy's, LLC
Industry: Retail, mattresses
Holiday job openings: 100+
Sample job titles: Sales professionals, sales assistants, call center representatives
Location: Conn., Del., Md., Mass., N.C., N.J., N.Y., Penn., R.I., Va.

15. Spencer Gifts/Spirit Halloween Stores
Industry: Retail
A specific number of openings they expect to fill for the holidays: 20,000
Sample job titles: Costume designer, planning manager, assistant buyer, seasonal store manager, seasonal district sales manager, seasonal sales associates, seasonal assistant manager
Location: Nationwide

Best Credit Cards

2011-11-30T07:21:00.000-08:00

Best Credit Cards

Want cash back on purchases www.chase.com
Enjoy points rewards www.thankyou.com
Not only does his Visa Gold card come with a 7,25% variable interest rate, but it has no annual fee and does not change a foreign currency fee if you use it abroad. Transferring a balance is free. You will earn one rewards point per $ spent. Points are good for travel or merchandise.
Want a low interest rate www.ctconnect.com
Like to travel abroad www.penfed.org

Romania

2011-10-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

is a country in Southeastern Europe. It is bordered by Ukraine and Moldova in the northeast; Hungaryand Serbia and Montenegro in the west and Bulgaria to the south along the Danube River.
When I say I am from Romania some people remembers just about Nadia Comaneci(was the first gymnast to score a perfect "ten" in the 1976 Montreal Olympics),Ilie Nastase(Davis Cup finals three times) ,Gheorghe Hagi(football +soccer) ,Dracula(most famous vampire character) or Nicolae Ceusescu(our last comunist president).
Romania it is a nice country and our capital is Bucuresti.Romania is divided into 41 judeţe. Bucharest has more than 3.5 million people, coming from every corner of the country.We have diferent Ethnic groups :Hungarians ,Armenian,Ukranian,German,Italian,Russian,Turkish and onother.
In Romania we have diferent religions:Romanian ortodox,Catholic,Protestant,Penticostal and Greek chatolic.
In the US lives a lot of Romanian peoples:California(56000),New York(51000),Florida(28500)Michigan (26800),Ohio(26000).
Famous Romanian-American peoples in the US are:
John Balaban(English professor at North Carolina University),Andrei Codrescu(English professor at Louisiana University),Mircea Eliade,Norman Manea,Claudia Moscovici,Saul Steinberg,Alexandra Nechita,Sergiu Gorun,Alexandru Marin,Gheorghe Emil Palade, Petre Dini

40 fantastic uses for baking soda By Melissa Breyer

2010-06-21T05:34:00.000-07:00

Personal Care
1. Make toothpaste
A paste made from baking soda and a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution can be used as an alternative to commercial non-fluoride toothpastes. (Or here’s a formula for a minty version.) You can also just dip your toothbrush with toothpaste into baking soda for an extra boost.
2. Freshen your mouth
Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water, swish, spit, and rinse. Odors are neutralized, not just covered up.
3. Soak oral appliance
Soak oral appliances (like retainers, mouthpieces, and dentures) in a solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in a glass or small bowl of warm water. The baking soda loosens food particles and neutralizes odors to keep appliances fresh. You can also brush appliances clean using baking soda.
4. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant
Give yourself an invigorating facial and body scrub. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate the skin. Rinse clean. This is gentle enough for daily use.
5. Skip harsh deodorant
Pat baking soda onto your underarms to neutralize body odor.
6. Use as an antacid
Baking soda is a safe and effective antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, and/or acid indigestion. Refer to baking soda package for instructions.
7. Treat insect bites and itchy skin
For insect bites, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply as a salve onto affected skin. To ease the itch, shake some baking soda into your hand and rub it into damp skin after bath or shower.
8. Make a hand cleanser and softener
Skip harsh soaps and gently scrub away ground-in dirt and neutralize odors on hands with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse clean.
9. Help your hair
Vinegar is amazing for your hair, but baking soda has its place in the shower too. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly — baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.
10. Clean brushes and combs
For lustrous hair with more shine, keep brushes and combs clean. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.
11. Make a bath soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. It also makes your skin feel very soft. Or just focus on soothing your feet. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.

Cleaning

12. Make a surface soft scrub
For safe, effective cleaning of bathroom tubs, tile, and sinks — even fiberglass and glossy tiles — sprinkle baking soda lightly on a clean damp sponge and scrub as usual. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. For extra cleaning power, make a paste with baking soda, coarse salt, and liquid dish soap — let it sit then scour off.
13. Hand-wash dishes and pots and pans
Add 2 heaping tablespoons baking soda (along with your regular dish detergent) to the dish water to help cut grease and foods left on dishes, pots, and pans. For cooked-on foods, let them soak in the baking soda and detergent with water first, then use dry baking soda on a clean damp sponge or cloth as a scratch-less scouring powder.
14. Freshen sponges
Soak stale-smelling sponges in a strong baking soda solution to get rid of the mess (4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water). For more thorough disinfecting, use the microwave.
15. Clean the microwave
Baking soda on a clean damp sponge cleans gently inside and outside the microwave and never leaves a harsh chemical smell. Rinse well with water.
16. Polish silver flatware
Use a baking soda paste made with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub onto the silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining sterling and silver-plate serving pieces.
17. Clean coffee and tea pots
Remove coffee and tea stains and eliminate bitter off-tastes by washing mugs and coffee makers in a solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. For stubborn stains, try soaking overnight in the baking soda solution and detergent or scrubbing with baking soda on a clean damp sponge.
18. Clean the oven
Sprinkle baking soda onto the bottom of the oven. Spray with water to dampen the baking soda. Let sit overnight. In the morning, scrub, scoop the baking soda and grime out with a sponge, or vacuum, and rinse.
19. Clean floors
Remove dirt and grime (without unwanted scratch marks) from no-wax and tile floors using 1/2 cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water — mop and rinse clean for a sparkling floor. For scuff marks, use baking soda on a clean damp sponge, then rinse.
20. Clean furniture
Clean and remove marks (even crayon) from walls and painted furniture by applying baking soda to a damp sponge and rubbing lightly. Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
21. Clean shower curtains
Clean and deodorize your vinyl shower curtain by sprinkling baking soda directly on a clean damp sponge or brush. Scrub the shower curtain and rinse clean. Hang it up to dry.
22. Boost your liquid laundry detergent
Give your laundry a boost by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry to make liquid detergent work harder. A better balance of pH in the wash gets clothes cleaner, fresher, and brighter. Or you can add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle for fresher sheets and towels or to neutralize gym clothes and odoriferous clothing.
23. Clean and freshen sports gear
Use a baking soda solution (4 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water) to clean and deodorize smelly sports equipment. Sprinkle baking soda into golf bags and gym bags to deodorize and clean golf irons (without scratching them!) with a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water) and a brush. Rinse thoroughly.
24. Remove oil and grease stains
Use baking soda to clean up light-duty oil and grease spills on your garage floor or in your driveway. Sprinkle baking soda on the spot and scrub with a wet brush.
25. Clean batteries
Baking soda can be used to neutralize battery acid corrosion on cars, mowers, etc., because its a mild alkali. Be sure to disconnect the battery terminals before cleaning. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water and apply with a damp cloth to scrub corrosion from the battery terminal. After cleaning and reconnecting the terminals, wipe them with petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. Please be careful when working around a battery — they contain a strong acid.
26. Clean cars
Use baking soda to clean your car lights, chrome, windows, tires, vinyl seats, and floor mats without worrying about unwanted scratch marks. Use a baking soda solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Apply with a sponge or soft cloth to remove road grime, tree sap, bugs, and tar. For stubborn stains use baking soda sprinkled on a damp sponge or soft brush. Eliminate odors by sprinkling baking soda directly on fabric car seats and carpets. Wait 15 minutes (or longer for strong odors) and vacuum up the baking soda.

Deodorizing

27. Deodorize your refrigerator
Place an open box in the back of the fridge to neutralize odors.
28. Deodorize trashcans and recyclables
Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your trashcan to keep stinky trash smells at bay. Clean your recyclables container periodically by sprinkling baking soda on a damp sponge. Wipe clean and rinse. Also, sprinkle baking soda on top as you add recyclables to the bin.
29. Deodorize drains and garbage disposals
To deodorize your sink and tub drains and garbage disposal and keep lingering odors from resurfacing, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain while running warm tap water — it will neutralize both acid and basic odors for a fresh drain. (This a good way to dispose of baking soda that is being retired from your refrigerator.)
30. Deodorize and clean dishwashers
Use baking soda to deodorize before you run the dishwasher and then as a gentle cleanser in the wash cycle.
31. Deodorize lunch boxes
Between uses, place a spill-proof box of baking soda in everyone’s lunch box to absorb lingering odors.
32. Remove odor from carpets
Liberally sprinkle baking soda on the carpet. Let set overnight or as long as possible (the longer it sets the better it works). Sweep up the larger amounts of baking soda, and vacuum up the rest. (Note that your vacuum cleaner bag will get full and heavy.) An added bonus: You'll also deodorize your vacuum cleaner.
33. Freshen closets
Place a box on the shelf to keep the closet smelling fresh.
34. Deodorize pet items
Cover the bottom of your cat box with baking soda, then fill as usual with litter. To freshen between changes, sprinkle baking soda on top of the litter after a thorough cleaning. Eliminate odors from your pet's bedding by sprinkling liberally with baking soda, wait 15 minutes (or longer for stronger odors), then vacuum up.
35. Deodorize sneakers
Keep odors from spreading in smelly sneakers by shaking baking soda into them when not in use. Shake out before wearing.
36. Freshen stuffed animals
Keep favorite cuddly toys fresh with a dry shower of baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on and let it sit for 15 minutes before brushing off.

Miscellaneous
37. Cure all camping needs
Baking soda is a must-have for your next camping trip. It's a dish-washer, pot-scrubber, hand-cleanser, deodorant, toothpaste, and fire extinguisher, and has many other uses.
38. Extinguish fires
Baking soda can help in the initial handling of minor grease or electrical kitchen fires, because when baking soda is heated, it gives off carbon dioxide, which helps to smother the flames. For small cooking fires (frying pans, broilers, ovens, grills), turn off the gas or electricity if you can safely do so. Stand back and throw handfuls of baking soda at the base of the flame to help put out the fire — and call the fire department just to be safe.
39. Care for the septic system
Regular use of baking soda in your drains can help keep your septic system flowing freely. One cup of baking soda per week will help maintain a favorable pH in your septic tank.
40. Scrub fruits and vegetables
Baking soda is the food safe way to clean dirt and residue off fresh fruit and vegetables. Just sprinkle a little on a clean damp sponge, scrub and rinse. Here’s another way to clean your vegetables as well.
OK, so there are my 40 suggestions (with a little help from the Arm & Hammond baking soda site, thank you). Do you have any tips or tricks that I missed? Please share in the comments.

50 Way to burn your calories

2010-06-21T05:30:00.000-07:00

50 Way to burn your calories-take vitamin D

-drink coffee
-sleep more
-do things by hand (dishes, cook, vacuum…)
-wear a basic pedometer
-eat lightly and often
-move briskly (walk like you’re late for a meeting)
-laugh (it burns up to 50 calories if you are laugh for 10 or 15 minutes per day)
-eat breakfast
-time yourself (spend the last five minutes of each hour up and moving around)
-low-carb, high-fiber
-go out of your way (at walk, take the long way to the rest room-or even go up one flight of stairs)
-fidget (you can burn up to 350 more calories a day than someone who remain stationary, according to a study at the Mayo Clinic. The impulse to fidget may be hardwired, but nonfidgeters can imitate it: Tap your feet, pace, or move restlessly in your seat.
- stash flats in your bag (you might not run a marathon in ballet slippers, but at least you can move quickly)
-don’t eat late at night
-straighten up
-drink more
-beware of sugar
-squat (when you pick up something from the floor, keep your back straight and bend at the knees, not the waist)
-chew gum
-sleep better
-walk and talk
-switch sides ( whether you’re carrying a heavy bag on your shoulder or a child on your hip, swapping sides every 5 minutes work more muscles)
-listen to fast songs ( the beat forces you to keep a calories-burning pace, especially when walking or taking stairs)
-cook your own food
-go on a date
-avoid eating lunch at your desk
-always carry a snack
-wear stilettos (“every few days, I’ll wear the highest heels I own” say Decker. “ It helps tone my legs, because they work different muscle in my calves and thighs.
-relax
-watch less TV
-lift up
-build up your ABS
-drink a few cups of strong green tea every day
-heat things up( try red pepper flakes on salad)
-work your legs a bit
-eat salmon
-pop a pill (people taking supplement with glutamine after meals burned an average of 20 more calories than those taking a placebo in a study at Iowa State University in Ames)
-keep your blow-dryer at the health club
-eat the peel (skins of fruits and vegetables)
-get busy
-go coconuts
-drink OOLONG Tea
-don’ snack in the car
-swing your arms
-snack when you drink
-clean up
-buy some crackers
-sit up
-don’t forget dairy

Looking for work – eighteen alternative ways

2009-11-19T13:39:00.000-08:00

1. Self – inventory of the transferable skills and interests
2. The Internet
3. Networking
4. School (ask a teacher for job leads)
5. The Feds (www.careeronesop.org)
6. In your state go to private employment agencies
7. Civil service (take a civil service exam to compete for a government job)
http://federaljobs.net/exams.htm
8. News papers (see http://tinyurl.com/d5818z or www.newslink.org )
9. Journals ( http://tinyurl.com/dlfsdz )
10. Temp Agencies ( http://tinyurl.com/dxrdjy )
11. Pickups (go to place where employers pick up workers
12. Job Clubs ( http://tinyurl.com/7a9xbb )
13. Resumes (mail out resumes blindly to anyone and everyone, blanketing the area)
14. Choose Places that interest you (knock on doors of any employer, factory, store, organization, or a office that interests you, whether they are known to have a vacancy or not.
15. The Phone Book
16. Volunteering ( www.volunteermatch.org www.networkforgood.org/volunteer )
17. Work for yourself (http://tinyurl.com/yqt7pc )
18. Retraining (go back to school)

10 Companies Hiring for the Holidays

2009-11-13T05:47:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for seasonal employment this holiday season, here are 10 companies that are hiring now:

1. AT&T
Industry: Communications
Number of openings: 1000+
Seasonal positions available: Retail sales associates; store managers; and sales support
Location: Nationwide

2. A Wireless
Industry: Telecommunications
Number of openings: 250+
Seasonal positions available: Store managers; sales consultants; district managers; information technology; customer service
Location: Nationwide

3. Blockbuster
Industry: Entertainment
Number of openings: 1000+
Seasonal positions available: Retail sales associates; store managers
Location: Nationwide

4. hhgregg
Industry: Appliance and electronics retail
Number of openings: 800+
Seasonal positions available: Appliance and electronics sales
Location: Indiana; Ohio; Kentucky; Alabama; Georgia; Florida; North Carolina; South Carolina; Tennessee

5. Hickory Farms
Industry: Specialty retail
Number of openings: 4,000
Seasonal positions available: Sales associate
Location: Nationwide, shopping malls

6. Macy's
Industry: Retail
Number of openings: 1,000 +
Seasonal positions available: Part-time season retail help in gift wrap, sales associates, etc.
Location: Nationwide

7. Olan Mills Studio
Industry: Studio photography
Number of openings: 100+
Seasonal positions available: Photographers; portrait sales; customer service
Location: Ala., Ga., Pa., Ky., Tenn., N.C., Ind., Mich.

8. RadioShack
Industry: Electronics sales
Number of openings: 1000
Seasonal positions available: Retail sales associates
Location: 250 cities

9. Toys"R"Us
Industry: Specialty retail
Number of openings: 35,000
Seasonal positions available: Management positions; sales associates, including cashiers, shelf stockers and customer service roles; and back-of-house stock opportunities
Location: Nationwide

10. UPS
Industry: Shipping and distribution
Number of openings: 200+
Seasonal positions available: Package delivery drivers; tractor trailer driver
Location: Nationwide

information: The stupid things we women do

2009-11-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

information: The stupid things we women do

The stupid things we women do

2009-11-09T13:45:00.002-08:00

Otherwise brilliant women too often trust a man, a company or the government to plan for their financial future. Today’s reality? Women are in charge of their financial future.

Kim Kiyosaki is the anther of “Rich Woman”, she says some women do stupid things when it comes to money – including marring for money and taking advice from “experts” because we don’t think we’re smart enough.

Stupid things some women do when it comes to money.
-we marry for money
-we stay in bad marriages or relationship because we’re afraid we can’t make it financially on our own.
-we let a man make all of our key financial decisions
-we accept the myth that men are better with money and better at investing
-we won’t challenge a man’s financial decisions because we don’t want to rock the boat and hurt his ego.
-we take financial advice supposed “experts” be cause we don’t think we’re smart enough.
-we hang on too long because (at least financially) we’re “comfortable”
-we keep quiet to keep the peace
-we hope the man will change
-we settle for” OK” in life when what we really want is “great”
-we stay to long-only to be left behind for younger women
-A man is lost but won’t ask directions- and we follow him.
-we sell ourselves short
-we put up with inequalities on the job-for a paycheck
-we feel quality working extra hours and not being with our kids
-we get passed over from a promotion we diverse and stay
-we accept less pay then our male counterparts and often end up doing their work
-we miss our kids soccer games and recitals because we have to work
-we often look into the future and think “someday”

Most of up have done one or more of these stupid things. The bottom line is that many of us sell our souls in the name of money. The real crime is the toll it takes on our self-esteem, our confidence and our self-worth.

13 Ways to be nice that will cost you nothing

2009-11-09T13:45:00.001-08:00

It’s not expensive to be nice –in fact, it often costs nothing. Here are 13 easy ways to be nice that will cost you nothing.

1. Say “take you time” and mean it.
2. Ask your friends if they want to borrow your staff not randomly, but upon detection of a need.
3. Invite someone to join your group.
4. Use your turn signal.
5. Wave.
6. Tell someone what others think of them.
7. Wait up.
8. Return things you’ve borrowed.
9. Respond promptly to invitations.
10. Say ‘please” and “thank you”.
11. Be sensitive
12. Call or e-mail the parents of your teenager’s friends if you have something important to say.
13. Bring extra to share or just share whether you have extra or not.

9 Thinks to do when you are Laid Off

2009-11-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

1. Review your financial and figure out how much money you have.
2. Add up your fixed expenses.
3. Evaluate your severance package.
4. Look at your benefits package.
5. Analyze your 401(k) plan options and obligations.
6. Learn the rules of unemployment insurance.
7. Set your professional and personal priorities.
8. Investigate a new career.
9. Check www.salary.com or www.payscale.com

55 Ways I saved Time and Money Planning My Wedding

2009-10-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

Before you Plan:
1.Decide between time & money (Wedding planner vs. doing it yourself)
2.Decide what's important
3.Decide what's not important
4.Prioritize what's important
5.Purchase a "bargain" book (but only one)
6.Find a planner that will work for you
7.Decide on the "look" and "feel" of your wedding
8.Determine how much you can spend
9.Make a budget, but make your own budget
10.Find people to whom you can delegate
11.Laugh a little
Clothes
12.Research, research, research
13.Rent them
14.Make your own
15.Shop fabric and craft store sales
16. www.Houseofbrides.com
17.Don’t buy boutique, but do try it on there
18.Look into dresses made out of different materials
19.Find a seamstress who sews as a home based business
20.Avaid bridal chain stores
21.Make your own veil
22.Rent tuxes as a group you’ll get one free
Cake
23.Club stores
24.Decorate the cake with flowers
25.Have a dessert table vs. cake alone
26.Make your own cake stand
26.Make your own cake stand
27.Make all your cakes the same flavor
28.Pass on the fondant
29.Cut the round cake, but serve the sheet cake
Decorates
30.Accessorize your flowers with bouquets from a club or warehouse store
31.See if your church or reception hall has deductions you can use
32.Shop creatively
33.Ask your friends (tulle, anymore?)
34.Buy in bulk
35. Give your center pieces away
36.Find out if your church or reception hall has a relationship with a local florist
37.Be willing to substitute expensive flowers for cheaper ones with the same look
38.Let your florist make the decisions
39.Simple elegance beats (and is less expensive that I lots of frills
40.Go for a different “look” (don’t use roses)
41.Find people who grow the flowers you want in their yards
42.Dried flowers are perfect
Invitation
43.Club store paper center
44.Skip the engraving
45.Print reception cards yourself
Honeymoon
46.Ask your friends and their friends
47.Decide what kind of honeymoon you want
48.Look in to all-inclusive packages, especially in the off-season
49.Look for privately owned condo-style housing
50.Plan the honeymoon way ahead
51.Plan the honeymoon last minute
52.Find a place where you can cook your own meals
53.Gett off the beaten track
54. www.Kayak.com
55. www.Bookit.com

Bullet proof your job by Stephen Visusi

2009-10-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

1. Arrive early and stay late
2. Look good
3. Pay attention to detail
4. Listen up
5. Speak up
6. Volunteer to lead
7. Make Presentations
8. Represent your company
9. Find a mentor
10. Talk to your boss
11. Grow your circle
12. Introduce yourself
13. Publicize your accomplishments
14. Be a fan
15. Quit complaining
16. Watch your mouth
17. Leave your problems at home
18. Behave appropriately
19. Discuss, don’t argue
20. Don’t be a gossip
21. Understand your office politics
22. Be positive
23. Be dependable
24. Be Flexible
25. Encourage others
26. Share credit
27. Stay calm
28. Be a mentor
29. Train others
30. Be a utility player
31. Be a specialist
32. Share your work
33. Take responsibility
34. Take initiative
35. Support your boss
36. Land a hand
37. Work hard
38. Add Dollar value
39. Have money in a bank
40. Keep your resume current
41. Establish a relationship with a recruiter
42. Improve your network skills
43. Help the people in your network
44. Be active in a professional association
45. Publish articles and do presentations in your area of expertise
46. Pay attention to what your peers are doing
47. Improve your interview skills
48. Monitor the job market in your field
49. Continue your education
50. Learn new skills

Tips on how to start a Conversation

2009-10-24T22:33:00.000-07:00

1.Smile. Everyone is more engaging when they appear friendly and open.
2.Make eye contact.
3.Introduce your self. A conversation is more likely to start and continue when names are exchanged.
4.Pick a relevant topic. It might sound cliché, but it’s always good to bring up the weather.
5.Share some details. Tell the other person a little about yourself.
6.Ask specific questions. Inquire about the other person’s family, job or hobbies.
7.Educate yourself. Stay informed about current events or happenings within your industry so you can offer interesting insight and speak confidently on a subject.
8.Listen closely to what the other person is saying and file always important tidbits for letter.
9.Laugh. Conversations are always easier when people are at ease.
10.Be genuine. No one likes to have a conversation with someone likes to have a conversation with someone who comes off as fake or distracted.

German bread

2009-10-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz can of beer
2 1/2 cups self-rising flour
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon onion powder
¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ cup butter a margarine melted

Directions

1.Preheat over to 375ºF (190ºC)
2.Lightly grease a 9x5 inch baking pan
3.In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients
4.Add the beer and sugar, mix well, place in pan
5.Top with melted butter
6.Bake 45 to 55 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Things to Save Money in your Household Budget

2009-10-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

-Have a budget
-Just say NO
-Face the reality of your buying habits (little things)
-Ask, ask, ask
-Make your self save something every month
-Quiz yourself before you buy anything (Do I really need it?)
-Carry a “buy-at-the-right-price” list
-Keep in mind that nothing is a bargain unless you need it
-Evaluate your insurance policies at least annually
- Pay your credit card bill in full every single month
www.cardratings.com
-Think long and hard before getting a pet
-Think cheap fitness
-Take your lunch (at least 2 or 3 days a week)
-Sleep on it
-Shop garage sales for bargains
-Have a garage sale
-Shop thrift stores
-Do it your self (sewing, cleaning, ironing…)
-Make things yourself instead of buying them
All-purpose cleaning: ½ cup ammonia, ½ cup vinegar, and ½ cup baking soda in a gallon of warm water.
Disinfectant spray: Mix ½ cup bleach and 3 ½ cups water. The total cost will be about a dime.
-Don’t smoke
-Be as energy efficient as possible
www.energyright.com/savingenergy/evaluation.htm
-Order smart at restaurants
www.entertaiment.com (which include hundreds of money ,saving coupons…..)
-Change the way you entertain
-Use the library to the fullest
-Purchase use books
-Change the gift-giving rules for the holidays and other occasions
-Reevaluate your Christmas holiday traditions
-Let people know what you want
-Go for resifting
-Save on travel
-Consider a vacation in which you don’t actually travel
-Go for automatic bill pay
www.cardratings.com
-Negotiate
-Don’t waste your money on extended warranties
-Enter contests
www.sweepstakestoday.com
www.sweepstakesadvantage.com
-Sing up for a membership
-Volunteer (Habitat for Humanity volunteer)
-Find ways to be cheap, to be generous
-Never turn down anything free
www.freecycle.org
-Take advantage of cheap or free greeting cards
www.bluemountain.com
www.123greetings.com
www.regards.com
-Be frugal on the gardening front
-Keep a gift closet for storing “all purpose” gifts
-Be skeptical (BBB and Department of Consumer Affairs for your state)
-Stay home more
-Stay out of the stores
-Talk to your children and grand children about money
-Make the most of your education (Commerce Department’s Census Bureau)
-Pay full price
-Be patient
-Enjoy things that are good to the last drop
-Consider a “fiscal fast”
-Take things back
-Enjoy high school sports and theater
-Attend leisure activities at local colleges
-Avoid clothes that need to be dry cleaned
-Shop consignment stores
-Take advantage of all the great web sites for cheapest
www.Shopping.com
www.mysimon.com
www.shopping.yahoo.com
www.pricegrabber.com
www.retailmenot.com
www.cuponchief.com (on line tutorial to help people to use the site)
www.smartbargains.com ( a rebate site where you can get money back for some of you purchases)
www.fatwalet.com
www.dealcatcher.com
www.insweb.com (all kinds of insurance)
www.gasbuddy.com (the cheapest gas is)
www.indexcreditcards.com (law interest cards, rewards cards…)
www.overstock.com (good discounts on clothes, house wares, books, music…)
www.factcheck.org
www.rather-be-shopping.com (coupons & deals)
www.half.com (is an eBay page with books, music, movies, text books…)
www.buzzillions.com
www.annualcreditreport.com
www.couponmom.com (coupons, coupon codes, free offers, free samples)
www.lastminute.com (last minute travel)
www.ebates.com (rebates, donate to charity)
www.mycoupon.com
www.totallyfreecrap.com www.heyitsfree.net (free stuff from screwdrivers to magazines and lip gloss and Nicoderm patches)
-Google everything
-Learn what you can do without
-Don’t spend a lot of money on the movies
www.redbox.com
www.hulu.com
-Lower your standards
-Compare prices on everything
-Think multipurpose
-Churches rock
-Get that company Match
-Make the savings fun
-If you or your spouse is a senior go for that senior discount
-Let the kids eat free
www.kidseatfree.com
-Go for services (for pampering and for food)
-Know your benefits at work
-Learn some new home – improvement skills
www.homedepot.com
www.expertvillage.com
www.wikihow.com
www.diynetwork.com
www.beyane.com
-Shop off-season and shop year-round
-Drink water
-Save by sharing
-Think about what you can sell
-Save every single receipt
-Know your stores
-Get free credit reports
-Find cheap and free entertainment for yourself and the family
-Use store brands
-No matter where you shop, have a list and stick to it
-Shop alone and don’t shop on an empty stomach
-Know your prices
-Have a menu plan based on what’s on sale
-Stockpile
-Weigh every think
-Coupon on the max
www.couponmom.com

5 Ways to Power

2009-10-24T21:10:00.000-07:00

Vision
Think big. Dream big. Keep success in your mind and believe you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Plan
to attend the Black Enterprise women of Power Summit to learn this and so much more.
Connect
with like-minded professionals on both a professional and social level.
Knowledge
Never stop learning. Take classes, go to seminars, learn from women who share similar experiences and have achieved the success you want.
Balance
Create a healthy balance between your professional and personal life. Remember-health, family, and finance are vital to achieving overall success.

Find Cash Fast

2009-09-25T04:42:00.000-07:00

-Sell investments (stocks and Mutual funds)
-Borrow from your home (home-equity)
-Research Government aid (www.sba.gov-->disaster assistance, www.usa.gov-->benefits and grants)
-Boost your take-home pay kiplinger.com/tools/withholding and try our easy-to-use calculator
-Cash convenience Checks www.credit.com
-Borrow from your 401(k)
-Tap your Roth IRA
-Get a life-insurance loan
-Lean on Family and Friends
-Sell your staff

8 Way to Make youe Life More Productive

2009-09-25T04:25:00.000-07:00

-Keep receipts together
-Ditch out dated computer stuff
-Use a desk organizer
-Magnetize your medicine cabinet
-Prepare outgoing mail ahead of time
-Create forms for everyday tasks
-Create a driving directions folder
-Cut down on junk mail

www.getorganizednow.com

9 Great Ways to see the world for free

2009-09-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

1. The peace corps www.peacecorps.gov
2. The United Nations www.unv.org
3. Art Corps http://www.artcorp.org/
4. Voluntary Service Overseas www.vso.org.uk
5. www.geekcorps.org
6. Win rock International www.winrock.org
7. ACDI / VOCA www.acdivoca.org
8. The International Executive Service Corps www.lesc.org
9 The Financial Services Volunteer Corp www.FSVC.org

Are you ready to buy a house?

2009-09-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

There are a few guidelines.
-don’t purchase a home until you have an emergency fund and are debt-free apart from your home.
-never do more than 15-year mortgage
-recommend putting down at least 20 percent in order to avoid the PMI
-your house payments should not be more than ¼ of your take home pay
-don’t buy a house in your first year of marriage

Some Industries Continue to Do Well in Recessions

2009-09-18T04:49:00.000-07:00

-Food
-Healthcare
-Used (refurbished products) (Game Shop-used PC, Thrift-Store)
-Repair Services (home, auto, small appliance, tailor/alterations,etcetera)
-Energy efficiency &energy conservation)
-Funeral and related activities (get your ashes shot into space!)
-Home foreclosures and related work
-Home entertainment-
-Education, training and retaining
-Anything that has to do with “cloud” computing
-Outsourcing of work and outplacement of personnel
-Daycare centers
-Internet marketing, websites
-State services that can be privatized
-Animal food manufactures
-Farm product merchant wholesalers
-Internet publishing and broadcasting
-Pesticide and fertilizer markers
-Waste management services(although recycling is down)
-Software publishers
-Navigation/ electro medical /measuring Instruments manufacturers
-Mining support services
-Direct Selling

100Great Business in US

2009-09-18T04:38:00.000-07:00

1.Pixar(Disney) http://www.pixar.com
2.Julie Aigner-Clark and Bill Clark, Baby Einstain www.babyeinstein.com
3.Callaway www.callawaygolf.com
4.Barbie http://barbie.everythinggirl.com/
5.Hallmark Cards www.hallmark.com/
6.Red Bull www.redbull.com
7.Sony Walkman www.sony.com
8.Liquid Paper www.liquidpaper.com
9.Dyson www.Dyson.com
10.The Kellogg Copany http://www2.kelloggs.com/
11.4M and the Post-it Note www.3M.com/Post-itEasels
12 Weight Watchers www.WeightWatchers.com
13.Quiksilver www.Quiksilver.com
14.Kate and Andy Spade www.katespade.com
15.Nobu www.noburestaurants.com/
16.Walfgang Puck www.wolfgangpuck.com/
17.Chanel No-5 www.CHANEL.com
18 The Coca-Cola Company www.thecoca-colacompany.com
19.Clarence Birdseye http://www.birdseyefoods.com/ourcompany/
20.Nokia www.NokiaUSA.com
21.Avon www.AVON.com
22.LVMH http://www.lvmh.com/
23.Gap www.gap.com
24.Samsung www.samsung.com
25.Guinness www.guinness.com
26.Adidas www.adidas.com/
27.IKEA www.ikea.com/
28.Re/Max www.remax.com/
29.JD Power www.jdpower.com/
30.Mark Burnett http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Burnett
31.Howard Schultz, Starbucks www.myprimetime.com/work/ge/schultzbio/
32.Amazon www.amazon.com/
33.Columbia Sport swear www.columbia.com/
34.Nutrimetrics http://www.nutrimetics.com.au/portal/
35.Cirque du Soleil www.cirquedusoleil.com/
36.Rollerblade www.rollerblade.com/
37.Websense www.websense.com
38.Craiglist www.craiglist.org
39.MTV www.mtv.com/
40.TIVO www.tivo.com/
41.Hooters www.hooters.com
42.Liz Lange Maternity www.lizlange.com/
43.Microsoft www.microsoft.com
44.Mars Inc www.mars.com/
45.XM Satellite Radio www.xmradio.com/
46.Ray Kroc McDonald's www.woopidoo.com/biography/ray-kroc/
47.Dell www.Dell.com
48.Arthur Blank and Bernice Marcus,the Home Depot http://ezinearticles.com/?id=678351
49.Mary Key Ash, Mary key Cosmetics www.MaryKay.com
50.Simon Fuller http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Fuller
51.Oprah Winfrey www.oprah.com/
52.Sean Combs http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Combs
53.Richard Branson http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Branson
54.Taschen . http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taschen
55.Danni Ashe www.Danni.com
56.Oakley www.Oakley.com
57.Revlon www.Revlon.com
58.Luxottica www.luxottica.com/
59.eBay www.ebay.com
60.Limited Brands www.limitedbrands.com
61.L'Oreal www.loreal.com
62.BlackBerry www.BlackBerry.com
63.Wal-Mart www.Walmart.com
64.Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway www.berkshirehathaway.com
65.NetJets www.NetJets.com
66.Nike www.Nike.com
67.Tiffany & Co www.Tiffany.com
68.Levi's www.levi.com
69.FedEx www.fedex.com/
70.Esprit www.esprit.com
71.Playboy www.playboy.com
72.Tupperware www.Tupperware.com
73.Apple www.apple.com
74.ID Software www.idsoftware.com
75.Google www.google.com
76.Seinfeld www.sonypictures.com/tv/shows/seinfeld /
77.Juicy Couture www.JuicyCouture.com
78.Jamie Oliver www.jamieoliver.com/
79.CollegeHumor www.collegehumor.com
80.Mac Cosmetics(Makeup Artist Cosmetics) www.maccosmetics.com
81.Aveda www.Aveda.com
82.Ben & Jerry's www.benjerry.com/
83.Stainway www.steinway.com/
84.Lego www.LEGO.com
85.Harley-Davidson www.harley-davidson.com
86.Foun Seasons Hotels www.FourSeasons.com
87.Manolo Blahnik www.manoloblahnik.com
88.Porsche www.porsche.com/
89.Prada www.prada.com/
90.Alessi www.alessi.com/
91.Subway www.subway.com/
92.Mrs. Fields Cookies www.MrsFields.com(prajituri
93.Diners Club www.dinersclub.com/
94.Jani-King (Cleaning Business) www.janiking.com/
95.Play-Doh(Magic Wallpaper Cleaner) http://daymix.com/Play-Doh
96.Dippin Dot's http://www.dippindots.com/products/
97.Build-A-Bear workshop www.buildabear.com
98.Disponsable Diapers consumerreports.org/cro/.../diapers/diapers-304/overview/index.htm
99.Neopets www.neopets.com
100.Super Soaker www.supersoaker.com

Right Right–Brain And Left-Brain Creativity by Robert Kiyosaki

2009-08-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

In an overly simplified exclamation, the left-brain (the left hemisphere of the brain) is generally associated with linear thinking or logic. People who are good with reading and math are generally considered left-brain dominant. The right-brain (the right hemisphere of the brain) is more spatially oriented. People who are good with art, music and color are more right-brain dominant. In reality, it takes both sides to function, but you get the idea.
For many years, I have studied the subject of education and how we learn. Do you know that when we are born, we have an undivided brain? It is not until we are four or five years old that our brains have split into two hemispheres – a right side and left side. Our current educational system caters to those are more left-brain that right-brain dominant.
Creativity Makes You Rich
Understanding the functions of the left-brain and the right-brain is important because creativity has the power to make us very rich.
Real estate and business, on the other hand, are ideal for right-brain people. In fact, the more creative you are, the better your chances of becoming rich.
Creative people don’t need to be motivated by anyone else. They motivate themselves. They listen to and use both sides of their brains for maximum potential. They find inspiration instead of waiting for it. And they use their brains in the biggest way possible.
…When I’m working on a project, I am very focused, but I am also open to new ideas and inspiration that might come along.

Safe bets every restaurant

2009-08-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

Although some restaurants list nutrition info on their menus or websites, most of the time it’s a guessing game. These are usually the healthiest picks.

At a Chinese restaurant Egg drop or wonton soup to start, anything steamed with sauce on the side (shrimps, vegetables or chicken with broccoli and garlic) and brown rice.

At a diner Egg-white omelet with spinach, tomatoes and feta (or turkey bacon) with whole-wheat toast, or open-face (leave half the bun) veggie or turkey burger with Cheddar: fruit salad or side salad with vinaigrette.

At an Indian restaurant Tandoori chicken or shrimp with raita yogurt sauce; whole-wheat roti bread.

At an Italian restaurant Tricolore salad, insalata mista or minestone soup to start: baked, broiled or grilled fish or chicken entrée (like Chicken Scarpariello or Marsala).

At a Mexican restaurant Fajitas ( steak, chicken, shrimp, veggie) with 1-2 tortillas and a dab of sour cream, or grilled fish soft tacos with salsa.

At a pizzeria 1-2 pieces of thin crust pizza piled with veggie toppings: salad on the side.

Children learn what they live By Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.

2009-08-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

Children learn what they live By Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.

If children live with criticism,
they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility,
they learn to fight.
If children live with fear,
they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity,
they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule,
they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy,
they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame,
they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement,
they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance,
they learn patience.
If children live with praise,
they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance,
they learn to love.
If children live with approval,
they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition,
they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing,
they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty,
they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness,
they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration,
they learn respect.
If children live with security,
they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness,
they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.

Making Money

2009-07-27T04:01:00.000-07:00

Sell your body
Aside from selling stuff you don’t want any more, you can also be paid for participating in a medical trial and, in some countries, for donations of blood plasma. Check out drug companies for medical center for advice.
Be a reader
If you’re a student, take advantage of your education to make a little extra cash. Offer tutorial services on your subject or on how to get a place in higher education, or proofread and edit essays and CVs (resume).
Search the attic
Take a good look through you and your family’s attic and basement for any treasures that could be sold. Your aunt’s collection of Elvis t-shirts or your dad’s old vinyl collection could turn out to bring in quite a lot of cash if you sell it over the internet (just ask them first).
Be an expert
If you have a skill or are educated to a high level in something (think everything from French, mathematics and computer skills to plumbing, astrology and music) offer your services as a private tutor. It’s a great way to make money doing something you enjoy.
The perks of the job
It’s worth looking at the most expensive things in your life, and things you don’t want to compromise on, and seeing if there’s a way to get a discount. Working in a restaurant or fast-food outlet, for example, should give you free food or a job in a clothing store will get you a discount.
Work on web
If you know about a subject, or have a group of friends you could do it with set up a website. You can do it for very little cost on your home computer and if you score hits you could make some money out of Ad sense or other advertising packages.
Write up reviews
If you have skills as a writer, you can sign up spas and beauty products for local news papers and magazines or online websites. Not only will you get the experience for free, but you’ll get a small sum for your review or article too.
Strike a pose
If you are interested in fine art, you may be able to model for a life-study art class. For nude modeling you will be expected to remain fairly motionless except for moving poses, and instructors often prefer poses in which the body is being exerted for a more dynamically interesting subject. Many educational institutes hire ort students, but always choose a reputable organization.
Rent out your home
Film, television and advertising scouts are always on the lookout for locations for shooting. Your home doesn’t have to be perfect-it might be just the ordinary interior they are looking for, or you might have desirable outdoor space. Using the interior as a location is usually more profitable than if you just the external view is used. There are a number of online agencies that will list your property for free (only taking commission once, your property is chosen for a short.
Always avoid any that charge a fee upfront.
1001 Little ways to spend less & live well by Esme Floyd

Tips on accidents

2009-07-27T02:25:00.000-07:00

•Don’t just drive away from an accident even a minor fender bender; wait for a police officer to write a report.
•Exchange information with the other driver. Get the names and telephone numbers of as many witnesses as you can.
•As soon as possible after the accident, report it to your insurance company, even if you don’t plan to make a claim. If you believe the other driver was at fault, contact his or her insurance company also.
•If there’s dispute about who’s at fault, file the claim with your own company. The two companies will fight it out later over the amount each will pay.
•If your vehicle is going to require some repair, ask for a rental car or reimbursement for a rental car. Insist upon a vehicle that is similar to your vehicle.
•Don’t agree to release the body shop or the insurer from final responsibility until you’re comfortable that the repairs and complete and that the vehicle operates properly.
•If you agree to take your car to an insured’s preferred body shop, insist that the insurer provide a lifetime guarantee on the repairs.
•To ensure collision work was done correctly, consider hiring an independent company to evaluate the repair.
•If your vehicle is totaled don’t accept your insurance company’s first settlement offer. Check www.edmunds.com or look at a used-car price guide to se what your car was worth.
•If you have a five-year lease or loan and owe more that the car is worth, ask for “substitution of vehicle,” in which the loan or lease remains in force and the insurer finds you a similar vehicle as a replacement.

International Studies

2009-07-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

-Advanced International Studies a-t the Capital of Europe

www.kent.ac.uk/brussels

University of Kent-Brussels School of International Studies

Fulbright Scholar Program Dead line Approaching: August 1, 2009

www.cies.org CIES = Council for International Exchange of Scholars

The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, is the US government's flag ship international exchange program and is supported by the people of the US and partner countries around the world. For more information, visit

www.fulbright.state.gov

Tips on Being a Tenant

2009-07-26T09:55:00.000-07:00

•Before you write a check for an application fee or a deposit on an apartment, ask about the length of the lease, the amount of rent, and the amount of deposit.
•Make sure the lease specifies that water service is included, or that it is billed at the prevailing rate in the community.
•Never sign an apartment lease on the spot. Take it home with you and read it. If you don't understand something, put a question mark next to the item and get an explanation.
•If you pay a deposit or an application fee for an apartment and decide not to rent the apartment, you probably will lose the money.
•Always add a clause to an apartment lease giving you the right to terminate the contract before its normal expiration if your circumstances change.
•Many leases renew automatically unless you notify the landlord that you are leaving.
•Make sure to be present for the move-in inspection, and note everything you can find wrong with the apartment. Be present for the move-out inspection, too.
•If a landlord doesn’t give you back a security deposit, you have the right to sue in a small claims court.
•Renting from a private owner is fine, but be aware of the danger of not being able to renew your lease, or of the owner being foreclosed upon.
•If your landlord fails to respond to maintenance requests, send written requests. If a landlord doesn’t respond to a break down that makes the apartment unlivable, consider paying for the repair yourself and deducting the amount from your next month’s rent.
•If you know you’re going to be evicted try to make some arrangements to move your possessions, either to a friend’s house or into storage.
Internet: www.nolo.com

11 website the money pros turn to when they need answers

2009-07-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

-Check out your credit score free: www.creditkarma.com
-See if you're eligible to join a credit union: www.CULookUp.com
-Find the best credit card for you, based on your particular credit situation:
www.indexcreditcards.com and www.lowcards.com
-Get a grip on your finances with free money tracking and budgeting tools:
www.quickenonline.com www.mint.com
-Get quotes for auto(www.insweb.com) and life(www.accuquote.com) insurance, or find an independent agent(www.iiaba.net)
-Find out if COBRA is your best health coverage choice if you lose your job:
www.cobraoptions.info
-Check on Insurers' complaint ratios: www.naic.org(click on "Consumer Information Source")
-Are you over-or under-withholding on your income tax? Go to www.paycheckcity.com
-Look up expenses on the funds in your retirement plan: Visit www.moningstar.com and click on "Tools"; under "Portfolio Tools," click "Instant X-Ray"
-Can you afford to retire, say, yes, yesterday? Find out at www.firecalc.com
-Play "what if" with an impressive array of financial calculators: www.dinkytown.net

The best way to recycle it

2009-07-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Big Electronics

Two Words: Best Buy. They'll take TV's, computers, DVD players and the like, and recycle most of them for free. It's simple-just show up with your junk. The only catch? It'll cost $10 to recycle certain monitors, TVs and laptops.
Good news. You get a $10 gift certificate toward your next Best Buy purchase. Find our more at www.bestbuy.com/recycling

Take 10 minutes

2009-07-24T16:25:00.000-07:00

Snack on some grapes.
Recent studies show they may help prevent stomach bacteria that can lead to nasties like peptic ulcers. The antioxidant-rich fruit-try to choose red over green-can also help lower blood pressure and reduce heart damage. (Sadly, the same effects aren't true of grape-flavored soda.)