Saturday, January 29, 2011
Job tips from Ron Karr
Season of the witch
Manpower says, "there's an app for that"
A cleaner colon?
:-)
One pill makes you smaller
Program aims to hire 500 vets in 2011
Fannie Mae December report released
Pendants are not just for necks
Opera and Internet safety
Show your team pride
Trash the tanning tax
Those cold winter nights
:-)
Green is the new red
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Birdwatching season approaches
Sunday, January 23, 2011
OnStar but no GPS for Super Bowl
7 Skills Required for the "New Reality" of Corporate Leadership in 2011
Gold market still holds interest
While some argue the fiat money system, others opt for Bullion as a hedge should there be any kind of a market failure. It's fairly well established that should some type of a major financial crisis hit that gold and other precious metals could play a role in keeping your financial status stable.
There are also other products out there like the Gold IRA. As your financial planner about it and do your research on the number of companies out there, like Regalgoldcoins.com that specialize in precious metals. The chart below shows you the prices of gold:
Gold Price
Manpower exec to argue education industry is failing
Jeffrey A. Joerres, Manpower Inc. Chairman and CEO, will argue in favor of the motion "Education is Failing Industry," in part two of the debate and will be challenged by Amy Gutmann, President of the University of Pennsylvania. Joerres will warn that, despite continuing high unemployment, the disparity between the skills taught by education institutions and those needed by business means western countries will find it increasingly difficult to source the critical talent they need.
"The world is experiencing an era of volatile and rapid transformation. This is exacerbating the disconnect between learning and industry as education cannot keep up," said Joerres. "The entire system needs to be revaluated. Changes would be significant, but are necessary to ensure industry, governments and educators are to effectively align education and training with business needs."
The Global Nursing Shortage
Shawn Mathis releases "Republic of Nurses," focusing on solving the Global Nurse Shortage. The Nurse Company project All Things Nurses.com opens to empower nurses by providing online communication and focus to the global nurse shortage.
In the global struggle for educating, retaining, and empowering enough nurses to support heath care systems, there's a strong new force arriving with solid answers.
Shawn Mathis , founder and Chairman of the Board of Governors of The Nurse Company, has released Republic of Nurses, a book outlining the history and the present state of the global nurse shortage worldwide. In his book, the second on this topic, Mr. Mathis continues the conversation of the need for a new system of communication to deal with the global nurse shortage. His company, The Nurse Company, has taken the book from thoughtful concept to reality.
Rave reviews - Tutorvista example
If you search Reviews for tutorvista in your favorite search engine, you'll note that by looking at the domain name of where the search is featured you can select from a number of places, including specific consumer sites to find a Tutorvista Review and you can even find Reviews for tutorvista on wikipedia.
Do the same review search for any product and service and you'll get an idea of what is being stated out there to help you decide.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Art Van Furniture to have three Grand Openings in one day
"This is not only a high point for Art Van Furniture," exclaimed Art Van Elslander, founder and chairman of Art Van Furniture. "It's also a milestone for the U.S. furniture industry. I can't recall any American furniture chain grand opening three stores in one day," added Van Elslander.
Company history is also being made with the opening of Art Van's first mall location at Great Lakes Crossing in Auburn Hills. The 44,000 square foot store features a new lifestyle center court showcasing Art Van's four styles: Contemporary living, Casual living, Traditional living and Rustic living. The new store will also reveal a new prototype Clearance Center design and vertical furniture display spotlighting the best values and fashion throughout the store.
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Grand Opening events begin January 22, 2011 at 10am and runs until 8pm. The first 250 people will receive a free gift. Ribbon cutting ceremonies emceed by television personality Christy McDonald will begin at 1pm. Grand Opening events also feature free food, family-friendly entertainment including music, clowns and costumed characters. Guests statewide can join in on the fun by entering one of 4 contests including a 12 month car lease, 60 inch HD Television, $5,000 shopping spree, or a trip for 4 to Disneyworld. "Anyone who is in the market for furniture or mattresses should shop Art Van on January 22nd," said Kim Yost, CEO of Art Van Furniture. "This is the day to buy! We will have amazing one-time offers throughout the state," proclaimed Yost.
Art Van's two newest northern Michigan locations will also Grand Open on January 22nd in Petoskey and Onaway. The three new stores add 200 new jobs to Art Van payrolls.
Still trying to keep that resolution?
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Decline in mortgage defaults reported
Data through December 2010, released today by Standard & Poor's and Experian for the S&P/Experian Consumer Credit Default Indices, a comprehensive measure of changes in consumer credit defaults, showed a decline in monthly default rates for first and second mortgages to 2.93% and 1.74% respectively. Auto loans experienced the biggest decline this month to 1.68% from 1.76% in November. The bank card index declined slightly to 6.73% default rate.
"Default rates across the four major categories of consumer borrowing declined in December from November and from a year earlier. Nationally, consumers continue to gradually improve their financial condition," commented David M. Blitzer, Managing Director and Chairman of the Index Committee for S&P. "Separately, data from the Federal Reserve shows that bank card credit declined through November. Debt-service ratios, the proportion of disposable income that goes to paying debt, continues to decline. On a regional basis, the five cities we cover suggest that the Sunbelt continues to see greater than typical default rates."
Diet pill industry
US recovery still in early stages
In October, responses to the Federal Reserve's Senior Loan Officer Survey showed that commercial banks' willingness to lend to consumers is hovering around its highest level in the last five years. The easing of credit standards has coincided with a drop in delinquency rates, signalling a general improvement in credit quality. Although delinquencies on real estate loans remain elevated, delinquencies on unsecured loans to consumers and businesses have seen a steady, downward trend since 2009.
Speakers of the House
Study suggests home care answer in cutting costs
Professor Lichtenberg estimates the nation may have saved as much as $25 billion in total hospital payroll costs in 2008 alone thanks to the growth of the home health care sector during the previous 10 years. He pointed out that "it is a reasonable calculation" that further savings will be realized in the years ahead if the use of home care continues to grow.
Funding for the study was provided by Home Instead, Inc., an American-based international franchisor with more than 60,000 trained CAREGivers(SM).
Cabling nightmares
All he did was drill a huge hole in our living room since we wanted and paid for two boxes, and left the cable that would go from the living room to the bedroom. He said that if we wanted it ran, we'd have to pay him extra or call in data cabling installers. Never mind that the agreement stated "2 complete installations" and we weren't talking about a difficult endeavor, there was an attic crawl space that went from one end of the apartment to the other.
While the company promised to send out another installer, we then discovered they lied about the ability to get local channels -- which was one of the reasons we went with them. So, we just canceled the whole thing, and were charged for the damage to the living room wall, when we moved out since they never made that right.
Moral of the story? Make sure you are dealing with an experienced Structured Cabling Contractor and if there is damage? Document it, it makes it easier later if you get the run around when it comes to repairs.
Chocolate for breakfast?
The top five food trends for 2011 have been picked by a panel of food experts at the 36th Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco, which ends today at Moscone Center. The show is the largest marketplace for specialty foods and beverages on the West Coast, with 80,000 products on display from the U.S. and more than 35 countries.
The trends are:
- Chocolate for Breakfast: Tea, Belgian waffles, granola and hot chocolate on a stick.
- Foods for Healing: Ancient healing teas, Blackwater with 77 minerals, aloe and cucumber drinks, plus micro-batches of healthful beverages.
- New Noodles: Yam, kelp, farro and spelt.
- Heat with Flavor: Ghost peppers, yuzu-wasabi sauce and piquillo almond glop.
- Creative Chips: pinto bean, naan, peas, mung beans, kale and wild rice.
Other trends identified are retro foods, classic cocktails, wine-flavored foods, mini servings and cured meats.
The trendspotters are: Cindy Hatcher, Cooking Light; Tanya Henry, Marin Independent Journal; Nancy Hopkins, Better Homes & Gardens; Kara Nielsen, Center for Culinary Development; Amy Sherman,Blackboardeats.com; Margo True, Sunset Magazine; Tina Ujlaki, Food & Wine; and Joanne Weir, PBS television host.
The NASFT was established in 1952 to foster trade, commerce and interest in the specialty food industry. Today there are more than 2,900 members in the U.S. and abroad. The NASFT's website for consumers,www.foodspring.com provides an insider's look at specialty foods and the companies, entrepreneurs and artisans behind them. For information on the NASFT, go to www.specialtyfood.com. For information on the NASFT's Fancy Food Shows, go to www.fancyfoodshows.com. The Summer Fancy Food Show will take place July 10 – 12, 2011, in Washington, D.C.
Hard Rock Cafe employees file suit
The putative class action was filed in Circuit Court in Orange County, Florida. The complaint alleges that Hard Rock's servers and bartenders were paid less than minimum wage during the period January 14, 2006 until approximately July 2009. The complaint asserts that Hard Rock attempted to pay the servers and bartenders less than minimum wages while taking a tip credit allowable under Florida and federal law only when the servers and bartenders are allowed to retain all of their tips or where a legal tip pooling arrangement is instituted among employees "who customarily and regularly receive tips." The complaint alleges that servers and bartenders improperly shared their tips with individuals who were employed as expediters. The complaint asserts that the expediters at the Orlando Hard Rock Cafe are not customarily and regularly tipped employees; instead, they are kitchen employees who are responsible for ensuring food is prepared and garnished properly. The Complaint alleges that Hard Rock was not entitled to the tip credit because servers and bartenders did not retain all their tips and paid a portion of their tips to expediters.
Restoration after damage
Take family photos, you need someone who specializes in photo restoration services austin or anywhere in the nation. Not having an expert makes the chance of the photos being destroyed forever much more possible.
Beyond storms and fire damage, things that may seem simple are a part of cleaning and restoration, like leather cleaning tips austin -- you can't just drop a leather coat into the washing machine ... Not if you want to wear it again.
This time of year you may also be regretting it if you didn't make use of a visit to have your air duct cleaning austin,tx or here in Ohio. It's not too late if the dust is driving you to sneeeze ...
Ford announces plans for Kansas City Assembly Plant
Ford will invest $400 million in the Kansas City plant to install a new body shop, new tooling and other upgrades. In addition, the company has committed to retain 3,750 full-time jobs at the plant – consistent with current employment levels. This includes the positions required to assemble the Ford F-150, which will continue to be built at the facility on a separate line.
Monday, January 17, 2011
You've got mail ...
One is security, having wall mounted mailboxes -- especially one with a lock is more secure than having a mail box at the end of your driveway. We've had several incidents where something was delivered and stolen, which creates a huge hassle in trying to have money credited back and/or the item re-delivered. The wall mount mailboxes at least make the box closer to your house.
In our case, the dogs start barking as soon as they hear the lid to the house mailboxes opened. It also affords better weather protection when you have a covered porch, this time of year in other houses it was not uncommon to end up with soggy mail if the post man didn't shut the front door of the street mailbox. The only thing worse than having items stolen from your mail is mail that's not legible ...
Towards a healthier pizza
Domino's Smart Slice is a white whole-wheat, reduced fat and reduced sodium pizza, which is baked fresh and delivered to schools. Domino's Smart Slice is already being served in more than 120 school districts, and Domino's plans to double that number within the next year.
Leading Change in School Lunch
"This is a new approach to delivering pizza to schools, and we are extremely excited about the potential of Domino's Smart Slice," said J. Patrick Doyle, Domino's Pizza president and chief executive officer. "We are pleased with the launch, and the feedback from school districts has been very positive – which makes us believe the upside is tremendous. We want to lead change in this area."
Drugs disguised as Bath Salts
"Fake cocaine and fake meth are laced in bath salts and sold legally on the Internet and in convenience stores, gas stations, truck stops and head shops in most states. This newest boutique chemical substance is being used for a narcotic effect and often sends users to emergency rooms," warns Greg L. Jones, M.D., addiction medicine physician at Willingway Hospital, an alcohol and drug abuse treatment center in Statesboro, Ga.
According to Dr. Jones, manufacturers are using engineered molecules similar to controlled substances in the fake bath salts, which are labeled 'not for consumption,' to skirt the law. The molecules are derivatives of two controlled substances –MDPV (methylenedioxypyrovalerone, which is similar to Ritalin, but more potent) and mephedrone (an amphetamine-like drug). Also known as party salts and party powders, fake bath salts are snorted or ingested to create a stimulant, narcotic effect like that of cocaine.
Consolidate debt don't ignore it
Americans are buried in thousands of dollars of credit card debt, so don't feel as if you are alone. It's better to go with a service that is established and has a proven track record, read the fine print and ask questions. Reputable companies will have no problem with questions, they'll be happy to answer them for you.
There are no magic cures for credit problems. Though debt consolidation can get you on the road to credit recovery.
Retirement tips
- Saving should be a top priority. Some people may have procrastinated while others hit some bumps in the road. Either way, the closer a person gets to retiring, the less working years they have and less time to save. One should look at finances, consider needs and wants, and reprioritize.
- Delay retiring, especially if you started saving late in life. This is beneficially for Social Security and health insurance purposes. Social Security income is adjusted for inflation, tax efficient and guaranteed by the federal government. Every month a worker is able to put money toward this benefit, up to the age of 70, the more savings will accumulate. If an employer-sponsored health care plan is superior, depending on their situation, one can save a great deal. When retirement planning, people often forget that Medicare does not cover every needed item, which can be very expensive.
- Reconsider investments. Whether to invest aggressively or conservatively is a tough decision at any age, but especially for someone who is creating a financial plan later in life. One may invest aggressively to make up for lost time while another may shy away from risk because they don't want to lose what little they have saved. Risky speculation and eroding inflation are heavy considerations. The sound advice from a professional in the retirement planning field should be considered to make the right calls.
- Take advantage of tax efficient plans. Taxes can quickly chip away at savings. People entering an age to retire should especially consider as many tax efficient plans as possible, such as a 401k, Roth IRA and traditional IRAs.
RetirementPlanning.net offers a free service that connects you with a retirement planning professional who can help ensure a successful retirement. You can gain advice on portfolio management, retirement planning, estate planning, education planning, 401k rollover, and more. Visit the website to get financial advice and start planning your retirement today.
Mahoning Valley Downs coming
The full plans will be announced at a news conference on Tuesday, January 18 at 11 AM at Mr. Anthony's Banquet Center, 7440 South Ave. Boardman (Youngstown), Ohio 44512. Dr. Bradford Pressman and Rick Lertzman who represent Mahoning Valley Development Group will be present to unveil the rendering of the project, discuss the area where the project will be located and answer any questions.
Suspicious minds...Key logger it
Think your significant other or your children might be visiting websites that you don't think are appropriate for them to visit? There are a variety of programs out there that you can use to monitor computer visits as well as key logging.
Technology has progressed to the point you can even install a gps tracker that is about the size of a paperclip to be able to track where a family members car is going -- or at.
This technology can catch someone doing something they aren't supposed to be, but it can also relieve your mind if you are wrong. Let's say for an example the keylogging program shows your significant other was planning something for you. Sure it might ruin the surprise, but that's better than wondering if they are being unfaithful ...
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Auto Show Charity raised $2.6 million
The 2011 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview black tie gala continues to be one of the top single-night fundraising events in the nation as nearly 10,500 guests helped raise $2.6 million for local children's charities.
"Our passion as the Motor City transcends a love of cars," said NAIAS Chairman Barron Meade. "The automotive community and the city band together each year during the NAIAS Charity Preview for the greater good of our future, and that is our children. Thousands of children benefit from this event as a result of that sense of community."
Support by sponsors allow for a great event for attendees, and as a result, the maximum benefit for children in the metro area. The sponsors of the 2011 NAIAS Charity Preview included:
- RBS/Charter One: Presenting Sponsor; marking its fourth year of support.
- Delta Air Lines, Comcast and MGM Grand Detroit: Sponsors of the VIP Ribbon Cutting Party.
- Art Van Furniture: Special Additional Support.
Charity Preview attendees had the special opportunity to enjoy cutting-edge concept and production vehicles up close on the showroom floor while enjoying a Motor City musical favorite, "The Rockets."
Since its inception in 1976, Charity Preview has raised nearly $82 million for children's charities in metroDetroit, over $37 million of which was raised in the last seven years alone. Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets.
Beneficiaries of the Charity Preview include: Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children's Center; Judson Center; The Detroit Institute for Children; Think Detroit PAL; March of Dimes; The Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation; and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
About the North American International Auto Show
Entering its 23rd year as an international event, the NAIAS (www.naias.com) is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most - up close and in one place. One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for highlights and updates!
Press Preview - Monday-Tuesday, January 10-11, 2011
Industry Preview - Wednesday-Thursday, January 12-13, 2011
Charity Preview - Friday, January 14, 2011
Public Show - Saturday-Sunday, January 15-23, 2011
Online computer shopping
Retail sales up 6th consecutive month
Monthly retail sales figures for December were up 0.6 percent over November and 7.9 percent over December 2009. Retail sales excluding auto sales were up 0.5 percent over the previous month and 6.7 percent over December 2009.
Retailers and consumers weathered severe winter storms across the country in December, which likely interfered with some additional pre- and post-holiday shopping.
"While challenges certainly still remain, consumer spending is steadily returning to pre-recession levels," said RILA President Sandy Kennedy . "The economic uncertainty and consumer anguish that defined the past three years appears to be fading as increasing signs of growth and stability in the economy emerge."
With consumers in a position to spend more, retailers embraced a variety of strategies to earn shoppers business, including creative promotions and discounts and special deals both on-line and through new media and mobile channels. Also, retailers managed their inventory well during the holiday season, accurately predicting demand.
"There is good reason for optimism today in the retail industry. Those retailers that refined operations, prioritized innovation and invested wisely over the past three years, are poised to realize considerable growth in sales and profitability as consumer spending continues to rise," concluded Kennedy.
RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.
IT employment continues to grow
According to a monthly index of IT jobs developed and published by TechServe Alliance, a collaboration of IT services firms, clients, consultants and suppliers, in December, IT employment stood at 3,911,900 jobs; reflecting incremental growth of 0.1 percent. Along with December's positive news were upward revisions of both October's and November's IT employment numbers. On a year-over-year basis, IT employment was up 2.6 percent, approximately 100,000 jobs, compared to only a 0.9 percent increase in total non-farm employment.
"While still well short of regaining all of the positions that were lost during the downturn, the gain of 100,000 IT jobs in 2010 is most welcome news," commented Mark Roberts, CEO of TechServe Alliance. "Based upon both the government data, our own survey results and anecdotal reports of my member companies, 2011 promises to be a strong year for IT employment," added Roberts.
Taking plastic
Monday, January 03, 2011
2011 predictions for solar industry
"The year 2010 was strong for the solar industry, as profits increased substantially. While we see some hurdles early next year as subsidy reductions take effect, we expect demand to strengthen in the second half, as smaller markets look to further establish a solar footprint," said Mr. Montevirgen. "Overall, for 2011, we see a mixed picture, with healthy sales growth but declining profitability for some, added Mr. Zino.
Their predictions for the solar energy industry for 2011 are listed below.
1. We forecast that global solar system installations will increase at least 20% in 2011, well below our 2010 projected growth rate for a two-fold increase. We see demand slowing in the first half of 2011, as customers refrain from purchases following modest government subsidy reductions within important solar markets, such as Germany. However, we expect solar manufacturers to respond by lowering selling prices to enhance project returns, which should stimulate further demand for solar products.
11 promising careers for 2011
As people look to the coming year with hopes of continued economic recovery and increased job creation, new research may hold clues as to what the most promising positions will be in 2011. According to the Salary Guides released from Robert Half, 11 roles representing several fields -- including accounting and finance, technology, creative, legal and administrative services -- show increases in starting salaries and growing demand among employers.
"The common thread among the jobs highlighted in our research is that they help businesses improve efficiency and profits, and foster a more positive customer experience," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. "The most successful job candidates bring multiple skill sets, a track record of success and a strong sense of accountability to their roles."
Not proficient in "new math"?
Tutoring systems like Tutor Vista are designed to help end that frustration if you don't have older siblings around to help or if your school system doesn't offer additional tutoring assistance. Internet assistance is also more convenient since you can get help when you need it.
I took Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 in High School, but it seems to me that it's changed quite a bit since the late '70s, especially when it comes to some of the terms used. The only area that appears to still be the same where I can actually offer some assistance is when it comes to Statistics Help which is not very much help at all since only one of mine has taken Statistics ...
Hence it's better to turn to the experts.
2011 to Be the Year of the Diet
According to Phil Lempert, founder of Food Nutrition & Science and CEO of The Lempert Report and SupermarketGuru.com, 2011 will mark the time when Americans make permanent, positive changes in their diets.
"People will stop demonizing single nutrients or ingredients and begin approaching food more holistically," says Lempert. "Shoppers will circle the aisles seeking foods rich in substance, vitamins, minerals and of course, taste."
Social media and travel
Bigmouthmedia's 2011 Travel Report has revealed that the sector's enthusiasm for digital marketing is set to continue in the face of extremely challenging trading conditions.
While the travel sector has continued to be amongst the worst affected by events in 2010, the standout statistics from the bigmouthmedia Travel Report 2011 indicate that enthusiasm for the nascent social media and mobile channels is set to continue unabated, with social strategies taking a larger share of budgets than direct email marketing for the first time. Meanwhile smart phone enabled enthusiasm for mobile grows, with 28% planning invest in apps development and 22% looking to build mobile sites over the course of the next year.
Travel Trends Survey released
Today, Travel Leaders unveiled the 2011 results of their authoritative annual Travel Trends Survey . After a one-year hiatus – the adult "playland" of Las Vegashas regained the top spot over the family playground of Orlando by the slimmest of margins. In addition, this year's findings show that 50.1% of Travel Leaders clients will spend more on travel this year while 38.2% will spend the same amount. Conducted November 3 – 30, 2010, and based on actual booking data, the 2011 Travel Trends Survey includes responses from 547 Travel Leaders owners, managers and frontline travel experts throughout the United States.
"The trends revealed in this year's survey lead us to be quite bullish on travel in 2011. Bookings are on the rise as people either feel more stable in their situations or decide they can't wait any longer to take a needed vacation," stated Roger E. Block, CTC, president of Travel Leaders Franchise Group, which includes locations from coast to coast. "Spending signs are encouraging as 50.1% indicate that their clients will be spending more per trip, while 38.2% responded that clients will at the very least spend the same as they did last year. Plus, what our Travel Leaders experts are seeing and booking for 2011 translates into the overwhelming majority feeling more optimistic in their outlook for 2011 than we've seen since late 2006/early 2007."
Virtual bridesmaid dress shopping
Without having to entail an extra trip home for any of the maids involved.
British Airways reveals the top 10 destinations for 2011
Willie Walsh, British Airways' CEO, said: "The response we've had to the launch of routes like the Maldives, Las Vegas and Marrakech has been incredible. We've seen destinations in the Caribbean and Indian Ocean becoming even more popular with leisure travellers looking for sun and relaxation. Those after 24-hour cities are heading towards New York, Las Vegas and Japan."
He added: "Tourism and leisure travel is a crucial focus for us, so growing our holidays business is a major part of our business plan. We've already made great progress thanks to the launch of our Dynamic Packaging capability on ba.com, which enables customers to book flights and hotels together and realise substantial savings. Revenue this year is up 55 per cent and there remains a huge opportunity for future growth."
BA's top ten destinations for 2011 also includes the airline's new routes, with services to Haneda (Tokyo) starting on February 19, Marrakech beginning on March 27, Puerto Rico on March 28, and flights to San Diego on June 1, 2011.
British Airways top ten destinations include Marrakech at the number one spot, followed by San Diego, New York, St Kitts & Nevis, Puerto Rico, Maldives, Japan, Las Vegas, Mauritius and St Lucia.
British Airways joint business with American Airlines and Iberia also gives customers a choice of 17 flights a day between London and New York.
Return to sender
Top 10 Food Trends for 2011
The Food Channel® (foodchannel.com) has released the much-anticipated "Top Ten Food Trends for 2011." By partnering with CultureWaves™ (www.culturewav.es), Mintel International and International Food Futurists®, The Food Channel has been able to identify the most significant food trends that will drive how people eat throughout 2011, from buying to cooking to consuming.
"The new economy has created a boldness and willingness to change how we work, how we cook and how we eat. All of our 2011 trends reflect that in some way," said Kay Logsdon, editor of The Food Channel. "One example is Baby Boomers wanting to age well. Trend #10 explains they are eating for better sex, more energy and the ability to work longer."
For 23 years, The Food Channel has uncovered food trends ahead of the curve. "The insights are fun for consumers, and give those who make their living from food a competitive edge when it comes to what drives their consumers' choices," added Logsdon.
The Food Channel Top 10 Trends for 2011
- The Canning Comeback – "Putting Up" is gaining popularity for both economy and health.
- Men in Aprons – Layoffs have led to more men cooking.
- Local Somewhere – We care about hand-tended no matter where it's grown.
- Don't Ask, Don't Tell – We're tired of being told what we can eat.
- Appetite for Food Apps – Social media is our guide and our coupon source.
- Small is the New Big Business – Corporations are thinking like small businesses.
- Fresh Every Day – Rooftop gardens are just part of this trend.
- Chefs in Schools – Better flavor is possible in an institutional setting.
- Discomfort Foods – Change makes us comfortable with more change.
- Eating for Sex and Other Things – We are working longer, and want all the gusto.
Read the complete Top 10 Food Trends for 2011 at www.foodchannel.com.
Also look for the Top Ten Foods to Watch in 2011. They include sausage, moonshine, grits, fin fish and the latest in antioxidant-heavy fruit.
Best Western's top 11 2011 Travel Destinations
Once the holidays end and the New Year arrives, it's the ideal time to sit down as a family and make vacation travel plans for 2011, according to Amy Graff, Travel and Kids expert for Best Western International and the senior editor for the award-winning blog, On the Go With Amy.
To arm families with fresh ideas for budget- and family-friendly activities, Amy today released her Top 11 Destinations for Family Travel for 2011, which includes "must do" and "must see" ideas ranging from touring a newly built aquarium to discovering U.S. history.
Is there a new mattress in your future?
:-)
Will 2011 be the year to take the plunge and start a business?
Entrepreneurial Outlook: Is 2011 the Year to Start a Business?
Will 2011 be the year to take the plunge and start a business? Asher Epstein, managing director of the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business is optimistic. He says entrepreneurs with good ideas should go for it – but proceed with caution. A short video of Epstein talking about his predictions is available:http://www.youtube.com/user/SmithBusinessSchool#p/u/2/QMF8KRe23yY
Epstein's take for entrepreneurs in 2011:
"I'm cautiously optimistic. As entrepreneurs, we're hard-wired to be optimistic. We see a lot of talented people out there with good ideas."
Financial resolutions for 2011
At year's end we often find ourselves faced with good intentions that just never happened. Something we wanted to do, but never got around to it. The Illinois CPA Society suggests it's not too late. Make the financial move you planned on making in 2010 your New Year's resolution for 2011. Check this short list from the Society for things you might want to do in the year ahead:
- Find a way to save. Could you take the $50 you just spent on that sweater and save it instead? Cut back on downloads or dining out? Look at what you spent this year for ideas.
- Set a reachable goal. Whether it's getting out of debt or buying a home, plan to accomplish something with your money in 2011. Put away a small amount each month towards your goal.
- Start a rainy day fund. Prepare for a layoff or health emergency by working towards having three to six months worth of living expenses socked away.
- Make a will. Not pleasant to think about, but you want to make things easier on your family and protect your assets. State rules may apply if you don't have a will. And who would have custody of your children?
- Check your credit report. You've been meaning to check it, but perhaps afraid to look. Use it as a starting point to get your credit in good shape. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com for a free report.
- Take steps toward retirement. Begin to contribute to your 401K plan at work - at least enough to get the match if one's available. If you're already contributing, consider an increase of 1 or 2 percent.