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Automotive  (top)

The Safe Way to Drive Youngsters' Passion for Speed

(ARA) - Just one day after the premier of "Fast & Furious," a movie that spotlights the world of street racing, a mother and her 2-year-old child died in Charlotte, N.C., when their vehicle was caught in the middle of an apparently illegal street race. A 13-year-old passenger in one of the racing vehicles also died, and the driver of that car now faces three murder charges, police say.

Four Outstanding Outdoor Activities Your Family Will Love

(ARA) - This summer, with more people spending vacation time close to home, there's renewed interest in family activities in the great outdoors. Whether it's hiking, biking or trying something completely new, Mother Nature can bring a family together like few other things can.

Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle

(ARA) - With vehicles staying on the road longer than ever, the harsh conditions of the daily drive can take their toll over time. Americans spend more than 100 hours a year commuting to and from work according to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. As the amount of time a vehicle stays on the road increases, so does the amount of maintenance required to keep it running.

How to give your old car a new look

(ARA) - You don't have to buy a new car or truck to get a new look. Through the use of special products and accessories, drivers can transform the appearance of their vehicles quickly, easily and affordably.

Jobs for the Future: The Automotive Industry

(ARA) - Widespread unemployment has made job security a priority for many families. Amid rising job uncertainty, the automotive industry has a variety of opportunities for those interested in a hands-on, service-oriented career.

Simple car-care tips for gals on a budget

(ARA) - For many of the 49.7 million single women in the U.S., car care can be a pain. Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility and it's sometimes hard to know what needs a mechanic's attention. For a gal on a budget, calling an auto repair shop for everything just isn't an option. Lucky for car owners today, there are simple things anyone can do to help maintain their car.

Eliminate your garage grime: simple summer clean-up solutions

(ARA) - Summer is here and it's time to clean the garage. The garage door will inevitably be open and you don't want to be embarrassed when the neighbors stop by, do you? Take the time to give the space a thorough cleaning and update. There are a number of simple steps you can take to clean and organize your garage so that when your neighbors do walk by, they'll be amazed at the transformation.

Summer travel tips

(ARA) - With the summer travel season upon us, people are looking for ways to have fun and get the most out of their trip, while staying within budget.

Cheap auto insurance or affordable auto insurance? Big difference

(ARA) - You just found out you need brain surgery. Do you want a cheap surgeon or quality surgery at a price you can afford? If you value your life, the answer is a no-brainer. Same thing goes when it comes to insuring your car. If you value your way of life, really cheap auto insurance is not necessarily a bargain.

The logic behind online auto insurance quotes

(ARA) - We all want affordable auto insurance, but sometimes it seems that the setting of auto insurance premiums are arbitrary and capricious. But there really is more method than madness to setting premiums and online auto insurance quotes. So, why does auto insurance cost what it costs?

What are the risks if your tires aren't full of air?

(ARA) - Are your tires full of it? Full of air, that is. If not, you are wasting gas, causing premature tire wear and increasing your safety risk on the road.

Want better performance and mileage? Use the right motor oil

(ARA) - More people plan to keep their vehicles for much longer, and they're taking a new look at optimum performance and mileage of their cars and trucks. There are meaningful differences in motor oils. Motor oil matters, and choosing the right one can have a major impact on how well a vehicle runs. Selecting the right oil is the quickest and least expensive way to improve a car's performance and reliability.

How to Reduce the Costs of Owning Your Car

(ARA) - Automobile insurance rates, maintenance and repair costs and vehicle ownership expenses continue to rise. Gasoline reached record high prices in 2008 and the U.S. Energy Information Administration expects fuel prices to rise again in the future. Thankfully, you don't have to alter your driving habits or buy a new car to get some relief. Here are some quick, inexpensive and easy ways to save money with your car.

How do you run younger for longer?

(ARA) - How do you run younger for longer? Do you work in the garden every Saturday? Do you participate in marathons twice a year? Maybe you play with your children after work each day. Whatever it is that keeps you youthful and performing at your best, it's time to share your story.

Large Acreage Lot? Save on Maintenance with DIY Tips and Tools

(ARA) - Even if you made smart decisions about your home's financing, the recession probably has you looking to cut home-related costs. If you live in the country or on a larger parcel of land, the time and money required to maintain your property can add up, especially if you've hired professionals to take care of things in the past.

Buying used? How to avoid getting bitten by repair costs

(ARA) - If your old clunker is gasping its last, you might think (like millions of other Americans these days) you can save yourself some money by buying a used car instead of a new one. You can -- if you make smart buying decisions. Hasty or unwise used-car buying can end up costing you much more in the long run.

Get Longer Life Out of Your Truck or SUV

(ARA) - In this economy, not many people are in the market for a new truck. While fewer trucks are being sold, millions are still on the road. Your truck is a big investment and if you can improve its handling, safety and ride you can extend the life of your vehicle.

Vacation locally to save big this summer

(ARA) - With a down economy and the potential for higher gas prices this summer, many Americans are looking to take a more budget-friendly trip. Taking a "staycation," instead of a traditional vacation, is a great option to save money. A staycation means you spend your vacation exploring what your city, county and state have to offer instead of traveling far and spending an excessive amount of money.

Back to Basics at the Pump

(ARA) - For most drivers, filling up at the pump is an automatic routine. But considering that cars are typically one of our largest investments, it's important to remember the way we take care of them can mean the difference between trouble-free driving and costly repairs.

Ensure you have the proper auto insurance coverage

(ARA) - We have all seen an auto insurance company ad on television luring customers on a premise of how easy it is to save money with them. However, it's not about just saving money.

NASCAR Driver Carl Edwards Educates Motorists on the Importance of Being Clear to Drive

(ARA) - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving causes 100,000 crashes a year, resulting in 1,550 deaths and 40,000 injuries.

From father to son: automotive advice and life lessons

(ARA) - Automobiles often become a special place for parents to bond with their children, whether it's tinkering under the hood, or seated behind the wheel for a test drive.

Tire Tips to Keep Summer Driving Rolling Along

(ARA) - Warm weather, sunshine and lower gas prices may get more motorists on the road this summer. If you'll be among them, now is a good time to prepare your vehicle -- and especially its tires -- for summer road trips.

Cleaning your car can help extend vehicle life

(ARA) - The average price of a light vehicle has risen to $28,715, according to the Comerica Index. For most Americans, this means their car is the second largest investment they will make in their lifetime.

Tips for Finding the Right Vehicle that Fits Your Style and Wallet

(ARA) - In today's economy, every dollar counts. If you need to purchase an expensive necessity item like a car you must do so with serious thought and attention to detail. Here are some things to consider.

New car shopping? Why the time is right, and why it's the right thing to do

(ARA) - Highly motivated dealers, offers to make your payments if you lose your job and a wealth of inventory - all make it a great time to buy a new car.

Old car or truck? Tricks to boost its performance

(ARA) - Whether it's because of the economy or simply because today's vehicles are more durable, an increasing number of people are driving used cars and trucks longer. A recent study from RL Polk found that the average age of both cars and light trucks is at an all-time record high at 9.4 and 7.5 years, respectively.

Affordable, Comfortable Camping for All

(ARA) - Every year, families across the country head outdoors to enjoy quality time together and appreciate the wonders of nature -- but sometimes the idea of "roughing it" is not as enjoyable for certain members of the family.

Bridal  (top)

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon

(ARA) - The date is set, the dress is bought and the tuxes are rented -- now you get to plan your first vacation together as husband and wife. Whether your ideal honeymoon is traveling to the Swiss Alps for some mountain fun or relaxing on an exotic beach in the Caribbean, it's a special time you'll never forget. So what do you need to know to plan the perfect honeymoon that goes off without a hitch?

Bridal Registry Tips and Items You'll Really Use

(ARA) - While the fondue pot and ice cream maker seem like must-haves when you're adding items to your bridal registry, it's important to ask yourself, "Will I really use these items on a regular basis?" You may want to reconsider your selections. And, although making a wedding gift wish list can be daunting, the following tips can keep the happy couple celebrating wedded bliss for years to come.

Top 5 tips for creating an amazing photo book

(ARA) - In today's digital era, it's easy to design and publish your own photography book at an affordable price. In fact, Americans will produce 17 million photo books in 2009, according to a Futuresource Consulting estimate. Wedding books, family photo books, and artistic collections of photos published in a coffee table book are especially popular for commemorating special memories.

Go beyond green with eco-friendly beauty trends

(ARA) - Green living doesn't have to mean forgoing the latest looks, especially when eco-conscious beauty is the hottest thing going. Formulations driven by nature, practices that are kind to the earth and minimal packaging are all cool ways to celebrate the warm weather.

Turn Ordinary Digital Photos into Lasting Memories

(ARA) - At this time of year, it seems people are taking more pictures than ever. Another school year is wrapping up -- there are graduations, proms and sporting events. And don't forget about summer holidays, family vacations, reunions and weddings. Without a doubt, the digital camera has made it easier than ever for anyone to capture hundreds -- even thousands -- of pictures of these cherished moments. But this modern marvel of technology has been both a blessing and a curse.

Plan for the Wedding and for Life in any Economy

(ARA) - Planning for a wedding can be tough, especially when money is tight. But as you make your way through the mile-long checklist of things for the big day, have you thought about life after the wedding? Whether this is your first or second wedding, your dream wedding or a spontaneous ceremony, the financial implications of sharing a lifetime with another person last long after the "I do's."

Stretch Your Wedding Budget by Renting

(ARA) - Engaged couples long for a wedding day that will be unique and memorable, but in these tough economic times many are becoming more cautious about how they plan and spend their budget.

Classic Style Trumps Trends for a Wedding You'll Still Love in 20 Years

(ARA) - Wedding album, videos and a carefully preserved gown -- your wedding mementoes are meant to be precious reminders of your special day. But you may find yourself cringing with shame when you look at your album years down the road if you choose trendy over traditional style for the look of your wedding.

Business And Careers  (top)

A nursing degree offers a variety of career opportunities

(ARA) - As we look for signs of the economy to improve, many Americans are taking the opportunity to return to school. Some feel a college degree will provide better job security, and others look to study a new field altogether.

Can't Put Off That Tech Purchase? Tips for Getting the Best Deal

(ARA) - Recession or not, some spending simply can't wait. For millions of Americans, it seems that spending on personal technology like laptops is on the list of purchases they can't put off.

Travel smarter this summer

(ARA) - Despite a battered economy, most of us aren't ready to give up summer travel.

After a Layoff: Evaluating Your Health Insurance Options

(ARA) - As the economy continues to struggle, an increasing number of people are faced with the unfortunate prospect of losing their job. The numbers are startling -- by February 2009, the U.S. unemployment rate had risen to 8.1 percent and the number of unemployed Americans had increased by 5 million over the last year.

Boomers launch rewarding encore careers as tour guides

(ARA) - Job loss and the lack of new job opportunities are devastating many baby boomers, forcing an unprecedented number to seek early retirement. As a result, the most affluent generation in history now faces an unexpected challenge: making ends meet.

From father to son: automotive advice and life lessons

(ARA) - Automobiles often become a special place for parents to bond with their children, whether it's tinkering under the hood, or seated behind the wheel for a test drive.

Turn the recession into revenue for you

(ARA) - We've all heard the bad news: There is a global recession, the housing market continues to decline, the banking industry is struggling and unemployment continues to rise.

Out of Work? Tips for 'Chance Entrepreneurs' Starting their own Business

(ARA) - Unemployment figures for the first quarter of 2009 have created a panic in the workforce. The U.S. Labor Department said the national unemployment rate rose to 8.5 percent in March, the highest level in 25 years.

Careers in Engineering, Computing and Technology Offer Opportunities to Create and Innovate

(ARA) - What careers offer the opportunity to contribute to cancer detection, autism detection, caring for senior citizens, entertaining people and developing prosthetics, solar energy, electric cars and energy-efficient devices? The answer is computing, technology and engineering.

Demand Rising for Career Training Amidst Recession

(ARA) - Facing the prospect of a layoff amidst the economic downturn, many jobseekers find themselves on the defensive. Some employees have found that they must distinguish themselves in their current profession, while others have decided to change fields altogether, looking to promising new industries such as health, technology and other growing areas. In response, educational and career training institutions have had to expand to meet growing demand for career training.

How College Graduates Can Land a Job in a Down Market

(ARA) - It's all over the news -- employment has fallen sharply recently. College graduates looking for a job often view the rise in unemployment as a formidable obstacle.

Recession Inspiring More Mothers to Go Back to School

(ARA) - Earning a degree has long been a dream of many working mothers. While it might seem the recession would put that dream even further out of reach for most, many working and single mothers are actually drawing inspiration from the economy to pursue their dream of getting a higher education.

Boomers back in the job market: Stay ahead by getting your hearing checked

(ARA) - Impressive resume â€- check. Perfect interview suit â€- check. Hearing aid â€- uh, how's that again?

Suffering from 'White Coat Syndrome'? Medical Assistants Ease Patients' Minds

(ARA) - Your heart races, your palms sweat and your mouth feels dry. Why does a simple trip to the doctor's office stress you so much? You may have patient anxiety, more commonly known as "white coat syndrome," and there are volumes of books and legions of Web sites devoted to the topic.

Pharmacy tech - a recession busting career choice

(ARA) - An aging population and increase in demand for prescription drugs are helping to make a career as a pharmacy technician a very secure choice. In fact, employment of pharmacy techs is expected to increase 32 percent by 2016, according to a 2008-2009 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Are you ready for a career in this growing field?

Resourceful Ways for Small Business Owners to Save

(ARA) - In this economic environment, everyone is looking for resourceful ways to decrease spending and save money. This is especially true for small business owners, as they look to reduce expenses, take advantage of discounts, increase cash flow and in turn, improve their business's bottom line.

Reinvent Yourself for Today's Job Market

(ARA) - The economic downturn in the United States has caused major job losses in recent months. With more applicants seeking fewer jobs, it becomes increasingly important to do more than simply "dust off" your resume.

Savings chic: Savvy shoppers setting the trend for everyday savings

(ARA) - Savvy shopping is the latest trend for Americans looking for thrifty ways to save every day and stretch their dollars as far as possible.

Economy provides inspiration for more fulfilling careers

(ARA) - As unemployment rises, many Americans are realizing the importance of having a career that's fulfilling as well as lucrative. When layoffs are announced, many people feel they have nothing left to lose, and take the opportunity to pursue what they love. This has fueled a growth in the number of people going back to school to become massage therapists -- a career with strong job security and great potential.

Dreaming of a Career in Education? Federal Grants May Help

(ARA) - Do you picture yourself one day standing in front of 26 or more pairs of eyes, filling the brains of students of various ages with the information they will need to graduate from high school and go on to a fulfilling life? If molding young minds is your dream, you may be able to get federal help in fulfilling it.

Changing jobs? What to do with your 401(k) plan

(ARA) - Changing jobs may represent an exciting time in your career by providing new challenges and an opportunity to enhance your skills and abilities.

More Americans going back to school to reinvent themselves

(ARA) - Many Americans are considering heading back to school and taking other steps to reinvent their professional lives given the state of the economy, according to an April survey by Harris Interactive.

Create Your Own Vending Machine to Avoid Office Snacking Pitfalls

(ARA) - You glance at the clock on your desk as your stomach begins to growl and realize you have hit the 3 p.m. slump -- that vulnerable time after lunch yet still hours from dinner. In order to satisfy your hunger, you look for a quick fix to help you finish out the day. However, stuck at the office, with deadlines looming and energy levels low, your choices may not be as sensible or healthy as you would like. In fact, nearly 75 percent of consumers questioned in a recent survey by Impulse Research consider quite a few to all of their snack choices unhealthy.

Smart small business tips for success

(ARA) - Creativity is the key to keeping a small business flourishing in tight economic times. And while creativity will make your business grow stronger, there are also other free tools and opportunities small businesses should use to their advantage.

Due to Shortages, Veterinary Students Get a Free Ride

(ARA) - First, the bad news: there is a growing shortage of veterinarians, particularly in the fields of public health and food safety. The good news: as a result, young veterinarians can get expensive school loans comped.

New grads, career-changers find security, flexibility and meaning in massage industry

(ARA) - The recession is turning out to be a great equalizer, rearranging our priorities so that recent college graduates and seasoned professionals now share a single top concern -- job security. Many of them will likely find what they're looking for in the health care industry, where overall employment is expected to rise 21 percent by 2016.

Top job for today: better sleep

(ARA) - Job No. 1 for the American worker? Better sleep.

Surprise Job Opportunity: Demand at Day Spas Grows Despite Recession

(ARA) - With high unemployment rates and a wide-spread recession, you might think jobs in a "luxury" industry would be in short supply. Yet many day spas have actually seen an increase in demand, and need qualified massage therapists, yoga instructors and other professionals to keep pace with business.

Tips to help grads get the edge on competition

(ARA) - As the recession continues to take its toll, college grads have to work harder to stand out. Businesses expect to hire 22 percent fewer recent grads in 2009, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Competition for available jobs is fierce, even among candidates armed with a college degree.

How to Get the Promotion You've Always Wanted

(ARA) - Getting ahead in your career can be difficult, especially in the current job market. But if your goal is to advance into management, there's no better time than the present to take steps to stand out in the workplace.

Smartphones: From Geeky Luxury to Money-saving Necessity

(ARA) - Americans are cutting costs in many areas of their lives -- but not, it seems, when it comes to staying connected. While the overall mobile phone industry, like most others, is feeling the recession's effects, smartphone sales are booming.

Job seeking? Polish your online resume and portfolio

(ARA) - In today's fast-paced, high-tech world, recruiters are just as likely to glance at your job application submission on their Blackberry while driving as they are when sitting at their desk. Is your resume or portfolio Web-ready?

More Americans Turning Their Passions Into Successful Businesses

(ARA) - If you've got a hobby, or even just a vision, it doesn't take much to turn your dream into an online business that can provide extra income or even a backup plan in the event of a job loss.

What's that? Your hearing affects your ability to get a job?

(ARA) - You walk into the job interview. Your hair is groomed. Your smile gleams. You're wearing your best interview suit. You look fabulous, right?

Job fairs: how to make the most of your time

(ARA) - As unemployment rises, many Americans find themselves unexpectedly looking for work. Suddenly, attending a job fair becomes a vital opportunity to network, develop interviewing skills and -- hopefully -- find a job.

Jobs for the Future: The Automotive Industry

(ARA) - Widespread unemployment has made job security a priority for many families. Amid rising job uncertainty, the automotive industry has a variety of opportunities for those interested in a hands-on, service-oriented career.

How a Small Business Can Be Green and Save Money at the Same Time

(ARA) - More and more businesses are becoming aware of the impact that their daily actions have on the environment. They are also discovering that being environmentally friendly can potentially equate to big savings. But how does the smart business owner know where to start?

Looking for a New Job? Opportunities Exist if You Know Where to Look

(ARA) - In today's challenging economy, a number of people find themselves looking for a new job. Not only are job losses on the rise, many are finding that rapid changes in the corporate landscape have left them ill-equipped for a new position. Either their skill sets need to be updated or it's too difficult to compete in a field with too many applicants. Yet despite gloomy unemployment statistics, some industries are not only seeking applicants who are ready to make a change, they are even offering paid training.

Inside tips for when you need a lawyer

(ARA) - If you are waiting for your landlord to fix a leaky roof -- you may need a lawyer.

Career colleges' student attendance increases as adults seek new skills

(ARA) - News of the economy prompts many to lie awake at night worrying about how secure their jobs are, or whether they've got enough education to keep their job in a highly competitive market. With diminished retirement funds and uncertainty about the future, people are trying to navigate through a suddenly different world.

Reading classics helps prepare for back to school

(ARA) - Many middle and high schools give students summer reading lists to help them prepare for their next school year. Reading the classics can not only help kids get ready to go back to school and learn, but can be like reading an ancient version of today's news.

More students taking advantage of online education

(ARA) - As computers evolved from occupying a huge air-conditioned room to being so small they fit into the palm of your hand, how you use them has too.

Money-saving, year-round tax tips for small business owners

(ARA) - Small business owners face a variety of financial challenges, from securing financing and creating a marketing plan, to maintaining accounting books and minimizing tax liabilities. Regardless of whether business owners do the bookkeeping themselves or outsource it, they are responsible for staying organized and strategizing to increase the bottom line.

Community Cares  (top)

Living and loving with prostate cancer

(ARA) - A man is supposed to be physically healthy and emotionally strong. So where does he turn to when a disease such as prostate cancer comes along, which threatens this? An international call to action has been launched which draws attention to the impact that prostate cancer has on a man's love life, and calls for much better information to help couples through this difficult time.

Biking for Your Health -- Join the Fight to Stop Diabetes

(ARA) - Maybe you started biking to work when gas prices were hovering near $4 a gallon. Or perhaps you and your family cycle as a great way to spend time together on a Saturday afternoon.

It's still tax season for nonprofits

(ARA) - Tax season may be over for most individuals and businesses, but the story is different for nonprofits. In particular, it's very important for small nonprofits to understand that while they may not have had to file anything with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the past, they now may have a new form to file, called the e-Postcard (or Form 990-N).

Enjoying outdoor fun this summer? Don't forget to make recycling part of your day

(ARA) - Outdoor fun in the form of softball games, barbecues, parades, concerts and running events is a great way to enjoy the summer. However, these activities can also generate a substantial amount of trash. Bottles, cans and other materials from public events are often thrown away, but they present a great opportunity to help the community and the environment through recycling.

Athletes with Diabetes Take Their Message on the Road

(ARA) - A group of amateur and professional athletes, many of whom have diabetes, is touring the country, hoping to inspire and motivate others with the condition to take a proactive approach to managing their health and strive for blood sugar control.

Make every day Earth Day

(ARA) - Making an effort to help save Mother Earth is a great way to get involved, but it shouldn't only be the focus one day a year. The need for environmentally conscious behavior is ever-present. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates that each individual generates approximately 1.5 tons of waste per year -- that breaks down to 4.5 pounds per person, per day! This means that one individual making the decision to be more environmentally conscious can have a huge impact.

How you can recognize a woman who makes a difference in your community

(ARA) - Historically women are the shapers of home and family. But many women today extend their nurturing role to the entire community through activism and charity work that has a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

Recession impacting U.S. fire departments, survey says

(ARA) - How often do we take for granted that help in an emergency is just a 911-call away? Yet the recession is taking a toll on the group which is often the first responder in any emergency -- firefighters. What's more, nearly half of all firefighters agree that if the downturn continues for another year, it may affect their ability to serve their communities.

Hope campaign stimulates positive messages

(ARA) - According to the American Psychological Association, eight out of 10 people polled in October said that the economy is a significant cause of stress, up from 66 percent polled six months earlier. The main causes for stress and worry for both men and women were money, the economy, job stability, housing costs and health problems affecting the family.

Ordinary Americans make a difference in the lives of former foster children

(ARA) - Making the transition into college is a challenge even under the best of circumstances. Imagine how much more difficult it must be when a young person has no support system whatsoever -- no parents to help pave the way, no "Bank of Mom and Dad" to fall back on, no loved one to simply listen at the end of a difficult day.

The Safe Way to Drive Youngsters' Passion for Speed

(ARA) - Just one day after the premier of "Fast & Furious," a movie that spotlights the world of street racing, a mother and her 2-year-old child died in Charlotte, N.C., when their vehicle was caught in the middle of an apparently illegal street race. A 13-year-old passenger in one of the racing vehicles also died, and the driver of that car now faces three murder charges, police say.

On foot and online, step up for Parkinson's Disease

(ARA) - Every April people living with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and friends, gather in New York City's Central Park to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's disease research. At the first walk in 1994 there were 200 participants. In 2009, more than 10,000 people came from across the United States to fight to cure Parkinson's disease and to connect with others whose lives are affected by the disease.

You can help find the cure for cancer

(ARA) - After a routine blood test in 2001, Helen Anbinder, now 67, of Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., heard the dreaded words: You have cancer. The diagnosis was chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a serious blood cancer that affects more than 90,000 people in the United States.

Older Adult Volunteers Bring New Expertise and New Life to Nonprofits

(ARA) - When Margaret Ross retired from a career in nursing, she had no idea that her new life as a volunteer would lead her right back into healthcare.

Education  (top)

Economy provides inspiration for more fulfilling careers

(ARA) - As unemployment rises, many Americans are realizing the importance of having a career that's fulfilling as well as lucrative. When layoffs are announced, many people feel they have nothing left to lose, and take the opportunity to pursue what they love. This has fueled a growth in the number of people going back to school to become massage therapists -- a career with strong job security and great potential.

Dreaming of a Career in Education? Federal Grants May Help

(ARA) - Do you picture yourself one day standing in front of 26 or more pairs of eyes, filling the brains of students of various ages with the information they will need to graduate from high school and go on to a fulfilling life? If molding young minds is your dream, you may be able to get federal help in fulfilling it.

How to Get the Promotion You've Always Wanted

(ARA) - Getting ahead in your career can be difficult, especially in the current job market. But if your goal is to advance into management, there's no better time than the present to take steps to stand out in the workplace.

Demand Rising for Career Training Amidst Recession

(ARA) - Facing the prospect of a layoff amidst the economic downturn, many jobseekers find themselves on the defensive. Some employees have found that they must distinguish themselves in their current profession, while others have decided to change fields altogether, looking to promising new industries such as health, technology and other growing areas. In response, educational and career training institutions have had to expand to meet growing demand for career training.

Yearbooks: The original 'social networking' tool

(ARA) - Yearbooks are the original social networking venue. Long before Facebook, twitter.com, IMs, texting and MySpace, yearbooks have connected teens with their friends, their teachers and their school communities. Interactive and timeless, yearbooks tell the story of the year at a particular school, reflecting its richness and diversity.

Need money for college? Try these tips

(ARA) - Even though the economy has slowed down, college applications are up. Many people are enrolling in undergraduate programs, or going back for an advanced degree.

Careers in Engineering, Computing and Technology Offer Opportunities to Create and Innovate

(ARA) - What careers offer the opportunity to contribute to cancer detection, autism detection, caring for senior citizens, entertaining people and developing prosthetics, solar energy, electric cars and energy-efficient devices? The answer is computing, technology and engineering.

Recession Inspiring More Mothers to Go Back to School

(ARA) - Earning a degree has long been a dream of many working mothers. While it might seem the recession would put that dream even further out of reach for most, many working and single mothers are actually drawing inspiration from the economy to pursue their dream of getting a higher education.

How College Graduates Can Land a Job in a Down Market

(ARA) - It's all over the news -- employment has fallen sharply recently. College graduates looking for a job often view the rise in unemployment as a formidable obstacle.

Pharmacy tech - a recession busting career choice

(ARA) - An aging population and increase in demand for prescription drugs are helping to make a career as a pharmacy technician a very secure choice. In fact, employment of pharmacy techs is expected to increase 32 percent by 2016, according to a 2008-2009 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Are you ready for a career in this growing field?

Smart financial tips for teens and parents

(ARA) - Are you a parent of a teenager? Does your teen expect you to dole out cash like an ATM? Does your child know the word "budget?" As many families take a hard look at their finances in light of the current economy, many are seizing the opportunity to instill money management skills and financial responsibility in their children.

More Americans going back to school to reinvent themselves

(ARA) - Many Americans are considering heading back to school and taking other steps to reinvent their professional lives given the state of the economy, according to an April survey by Harris Interactive.

Tips to help grads get the edge on competition

(ARA) - As the recession continues to take its toll, college grads have to work harder to stand out. Businesses expect to hire 22 percent fewer recent grads in 2009, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Competition for available jobs is fierce, even among candidates armed with a college degree.

Looking for a New Job? Opportunities Exist if You Know Where to Look

(ARA) - In today's challenging economy, a number of people find themselves looking for a new job. Not only are job losses on the rise, many are finding that rapid changes in the corporate landscape have left them ill-equipped for a new position. Either their skill sets need to be updated or it's too difficult to compete in a field with too many applicants. Yet despite gloomy unemployment statistics, some industries are not only seeking applicants who are ready to make a change, they are even offering paid training.

New grads, career-changers find security, flexibility and meaning in massage industry

(ARA) - The recession is turning out to be a great equalizer, rearranging our priorities so that recent college graduates and seasoned professionals now share a single top concern -- job security. Many of them will likely find what they're looking for in the health care industry, where overall employment is expected to rise 21 percent by 2016.

Due to Shortages, Veterinary Students Get a Free Ride

(ARA) - First, the bad news: there is a growing shortage of veterinarians, particularly in the fields of public health and food safety. The good news: as a result, young veterinarians can get expensive school loans comped.

A nursing degree offers a variety of career opportunities

(ARA) - As we look for signs of the economy to improve, many Americans are taking the opportunity to return to school. Some feel a college degree will provide better job security, and others look to study a new field altogether.

Get an 'A' in back-to-school savings

(ARA) - It seems like the bell just rang concluding the last day of school, but already it's time to start planning for next year to ensure your kids are prepared for success. With list in hand, you hit the stores to get necessary items. How can you get all the things your child needs and still stay within your budget?

Reading classics helps prepare for back to school

(ARA) - Many middle and high schools give students summer reading lists to help them prepare for their next school year. Reading the classics can not only help kids get ready to go back to school and learn, but can be like reading an ancient version of today's news.

Top tips to help your child read at any age

(ARA) - A child's natural "learning window" is between the ages of birth and 4 to 5 years, research has shown. But the typical American school doesn't start teaching children to read until kindergarten. For parents, it may seem challenging to compete with television and video games, but helping your child learn to read is not only rewarding, but can prepare them for educational success.

Job fairs: how to make the most of your time

(ARA) - As unemployment rises, many Americans find themselves unexpectedly looking for work. Suddenly, attending a job fair becomes a vital opportunity to network, develop interviewing skills and -- hopefully -- find a job.

Career colleges' student attendance increases as adults seek new skills

(ARA) - News of the economy prompts many to lie awake at night worrying about how secure their jobs are, or whether they've got enough education to keep their job in a highly competitive market. With diminished retirement funds and uncertainty about the future, people are trying to navigate through a suddenly different world.

Family Living  (top)

Top five tips to help manage your family's health

(ARA) - As kids head to summer camp or back to school this fall, moms everywhere will be digging through their files searching for immunization records and other health information. Some will find exactly what they need with just a few flips through an organized file cabinet. But many busy moms will be sifting through piles, shoe boxes, or drawers full of papers trying to find the most recent health records.

Organize Debt Consolidation Quickly and Easily

(ARA) - Until recently, Ken Goins of Woodland Hills, Calif. was like most Americans -- he carried a balance on several credit cards. The weight of the balance became heavier and heavier, and Goins just wanted to end his debt.

After a Layoff: Evaluating Your Health Insurance Options

(ARA) - As the economy continues to struggle, an increasing number of people are faced with the unfortunate prospect of losing their job. The numbers are startling -- by February 2009, the U.S. unemployment rate had risen to 8.1 percent and the number of unemployed Americans had increased by 5 million over the last year.

Beating the summer bummer of bug bites and bee stings

(ARA) - Ahhh, summer -- July Fourth fireworks, family barbecues, ice cold watermelon, weekends at the beach ... and bug bites. Or worse -- bee, hornet and wasp stings.

Does your housecat need a behavioral housecall? Help is here

(ARA) - Cats have earned the title of America's favorite pet in part because they outnumber dogs in households across the country, but it could also be because their quirky personalities make life interesting.

Five ideas for affordable summer fun

(ARA) - The traditional week at the beach house is out of the budget, thanks to the recession. And you're not too keen on spending $50 per person to visit the local amusement park.

Hope campaign stimulates positive messages

(ARA) - According to the American Psychological Association, eight out of 10 people polled in October said that the economy is a significant cause of stress, up from 66 percent polled six months earlier. The main causes for stress and worry for both men and women were money, the economy, job stability, housing costs and health problems affecting the family.

Summer family fun with blueberries

(ARA) - Summer brings warm weather, a break from school and endless hours spent outdoors with friends and family. Summer is also a time for good eating, with farmer's markets and roadside stands brimming over with the fruits and berries of the season. Locally grown blueberries are available in most areas of the country and from all reports, this year's supply is excellent.

Four Outstanding Outdoor Activities Your Family Will Love

(ARA) - This summer, with more people spending vacation time close to home, there's renewed interest in family activities in the great outdoors. Whether it's hiking, biking or trying something completely new, Mother Nature can bring a family together like few other things can.

Please picky eaters with kid-friendly favorites

(ARA) - What's the best way to get picky eaters to enjoy good-for-you foods? Get kids involved in preparing meals and snacks. Experts agree that when children lend a hand (or two) in meal preparation, they are much more likely to eat what they're proud to have helped make.

Living a Healthy Lifestyle on a Budget

(ARA) - Health and wellness is a privilege that everyone should be able to afford even in difficult economic times. With the right experience and know-how, anyone can make smart choices about healthy living while also being wallet wise.

Simple Ways to Reap the Rewards of Getting Back to Nature

(ARA) - Spring is just around the corner. How will you spend those extra hours of daylight? Longer spring days signal the perfect time to get outdoors, yet according to The Nature Conservancy, nature-related activities, such as fishing, hiking, and visits to public parks, have declined between 18 percent and 25 percent since 1981.

Plan the perfect summer soiree

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to journey outdoors and mingle with family and friends. However, the stress of hosting summer get-togethers can sometimes be discouraging. This year, avoid a meltdown and make your next barbecue or block party a breeze by keeping in mind the following party preparation tips:

Wallet-friendly wardrobe tips

(ARA) - With the return of summer comes the return of brightly colored clothing and the classic little white t-shirt. Grass stains, dirt or barbecue spills often become part of these seasonal ensembles. To keep summertime wardrobe staples looking sunny all season, stop and listen to your clothes.

Regular headaches? Get relief with natural remedies

(ARA) - What do millions of Americans have in common? Headaches.

'Back to school' means 'back to basics' for kids' clothing

(ARA) - Back to school season can be trying on a family's budget. In addition to each classroom's list of school supplies and the kids' pleas for extras, there are plenty of expenses that don't appear on the class list. School clothes often top the list and deplete the budget. Learning how to care for clothing is an often overlooked piece of the puzzle.

Healthy Grocery Shopping on a Budget

(ARA) - American households are rediscovering the art of cooking at home. More than 35 percent of consumers are cutting back on their restaurant dining, according to a recent American Research Group study. As many of us make this shift away from our favorite eateries, you may be tempted to turn to fast food rather than your kitchen.

Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse by Teens: Recognize and React

(ARA) - Every day, millions of Americans appropriately use prescription medicines to improve their health. But what happens when a teenager or child misuses these products? How can parents recognize and respond to the signs of potential prescription drug abuse?

Ronnie Nose Says 'Don't Blow It' This Season

(ARA) - What does a cartoon nose with red sneakers and year-round sniffles have to do with learning about nasal allergies? Well this nose, Ronnie Nose, is the star of "Don't Blow It," a new online health game that uses humor and animation to help teach people about nasal allergies.

Potatoes Pack a Hearty Punch

(ARA) - It's no secret that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America, where one in every three Americans is at high risk, according to the American Heart Association. Sadly, most people don't know about the risk.

New poll shows Americans gaining weight amidst recession

(ARA) - Belts are tightening across the country as the recession lags on. As wallets get flatter, Americans are getting fatter according to one new study. A June Gallup-Healthways poll found the number of obese Americans increased by 5.5 million people in the last year.

Stay safe and enjoy the utility vehicle ride

(ARA) - Too often we see heart-rending headlines indicating children have been injured or killed in utility vehicle accidents because they were not buckled in when the accident occurred -- even though the vehicles are equipped with seatbelts and roll-over protection. These sad stories ring out from all parts of the country, from communities struck by tragedies attributed to improper use of utility vehicles by drivers or passengers.

The secret to a year-long backyard vacation

(ARA) - When the weather is warm, Americans flock to the water. Community pools are overflowing with children playing games, adults swim laps at the local high school pool and vacationing families excitedly splash in hotel pools and relax in nearby hot tubs. But moments at the pool are fleeting unless you know the secret to a year-long backyard vacation.

The American dream still inspires, even as it evolves, study reveals

(ARA) - Shattered nest eggs, daunting unemployment rates and drastically depreciated home values -- the current financial crisis has no more power to kill the American dream, it seems, than did the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl or the two World Wars.

Parents Can Take an Active Role in Helping Their Children with Asthma

(ARA) - As any parent of a young child will tell you, talking to your kids and getting them to listen is not an easy task. This challenge can be even more pronounced when you are a parent of a child with asthma, a condition that affects nearly one in 10 children in America, according to the National Center for Health Statistics.

Steps for safely mounting your flat-screen TV

(ARA) - Your new 46-inch flat-screen TV may be your pride and joy, but did you know it can also be a safety risk to something else precious in your life? Like other types of heavy furniture, improperly secured flat-screen TVs can tip over, crushing, injuring and even killing small children.

Time-saving tips for new moms on-the-go

(ARA) - Between naps, feedings and diaper changes -- new moms rarely have a moment free. Pulling it all together doesn't have to be overwhelming. Making some simple changes in your daily routine can mean extra time for enjoying your new baby.

Riding escalators: A summer safety reminder

(ARA) - Summer means more time spent out and about. With activities ranging from swimming at the local pool to attending festivals, amusement parks and sporting events, people are visiting new places and entering new buildings. While outdoor safety may be top of mind for many this summer, indoor safety is equally important.

Pool Safety Measures Ensure Safe Summer Fun

(ARA) - People drive cars even though there are accidents every day. You simple take precautions and wear your seatbelt. The same goes for home pools. With proper safety measures in place, you and your family can enjoy endless hours of safe pool fun.

Smart ways summer travelers can cut hotel costs

(ARA) - How does your family plan to save money on summer vacation this year? Driving rather than flying? Maybe carrying all the items you need instead of renting once arriving at your destination? These are all great ways to save! But how do you cut back on one of the biggest, yet totally necessary costs of travel - accommodations?

Vacation rental homes: an affordable alternative to hotels

(ARA) - With consumers looking to stretch their travel dollar further in today's challenging economy, many are turning to vacation rental homes as an alternative to traditional hotels.

How to Keep Allergies from Ruining the Fun at Playdates

(ARA) - Playdates have taken off in America, and it is no wonder. In this economy, where else can you find an inexpensive activity that is fun for both children and moms? Not only do playdates help youngsters learn socialization and cooperation skills, but they also allow moms to mingle and share advice.

How to enjoy your 'staycation' this summer

(ARA) - Has today's economy forced you to reconsider your family's annual summer vacation? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. In fact, a recent USA Today/Gallup Poll reported that 52 percent of respondents who had travel plans now intend to cut back on them in some way.

Thwarting summer's little creepy-crawly - the tick

(ARA) - For sheer skin-crawling summer creepiness, few experiences beat a tick bite. But worse than the unpleasant surprise of discovering you've been bitten by a tick are the health risks that come with the bite.

Get an 'A' in back-to-school savings

(ARA) - It seems like the bell just rang concluding the last day of school, but already it's time to start planning for next year to ensure your kids are prepared for success. With list in hand, you hit the stores to get necessary items. How can you get all the things your child needs and still stay within your budget?

Suffering from 'White Coat Syndrome'? Medical Assistants Ease Patients' Minds

(ARA) - Your heart races, your palms sweat and your mouth feels dry. Why does a simple trip to the doctor's office stress you so much? You may have patient anxiety, more commonly known as "white coat syndrome," and there are volumes of books and legions of Web sites devoted to the topic.

Curb overeating during summer months

(ARA) - The grill is, perhaps, the main reason why many people gain weight during the summer.

Simplify your family budget

(ARA) - Times are tight and you've cut back on the luxuries your family once enjoyed but could live without. However, every family has expenses, so how do you save money on the products or services that are necessities?

Family fun provides teachable moments at a small cost

(ARA) - The change in seasons brings a change in family activities. With a little planning and a lot of fun, financial education can be packed into every weekend -- without spending a lot of money.

Turn Ordinary Digital Photos into Lasting Memories

(ARA) - At this time of year, it seems people are taking more pictures than ever. Another school year is wrapping up -- there are graduations, proms and sporting events. And don't forget about summer holidays, family vacations, reunions and weddings. Without a doubt, the digital camera has made it easier than ever for anyone to capture hundreds -- even thousands -- of pictures of these cherished moments. But this modern marvel of technology has been both a blessing and a curse.

Smart Solutions for the Home

(ARA) - Between running the daily car pool, business meetings and planning family meals, it can be very difficult for today's busy mom to keep the home clean and organized. While moms do their best to survive today's fast-paced lifestyle, there are simple steps to get homes back in tip-top shape and revitalize living spaces.

Online coupons make it easy to save

(ARA) - With warm weather already here, adults and children alike flock to the outdoors for sports, recreation and home improvement.

Affordable, Comfortable Camping for All

(ARA) - Every year, families across the country head outdoors to enjoy quality time together and appreciate the wonders of nature -- but sometimes the idea of "roughing it" is not as enjoyable for certain members of the family.

Savvy tips for cutting insurance costs

(ARA) - A shaky economy and high unemployment are leading some people to put off purchases and look for more ways to spend less.

Lengthen the life of your cut flowers

(ARA) - In the mood to bring the bounty of the outdoors inside? The amazing colors, fragrances and textures of your flower garden can easily be brought indoors, arranged and appreciated throughout the summer and fall months.

It's Easier Than You Think: Tips for Building Healthier Habits

(ARA) - Between juggling work, soccer practice, ballet and household chores, taking the time to build healthier habits can be a seemingly daunting task for moms. But a new survey reveals a startling misconception. Despite the fact that it's generally agreed upon that it takes just three to six weeks to form a new habit, the overwhelming majority of respondents think it takes six months or longer.

Caregivers helping with finances urged to switch to direct deposit

(ARA) - Half of American caregivers make health-related decisions for a loved one, and a new government survey finds an equal number are now helping to manage the finances of a parent, friend or other person needing their care -- adding to caregivers' levels of stress and anxiety.

Three ways to save money with coupons

(ARA) - In this economy, people are looking to save money wherever they can. That means many are turning to an old favorite: coupons. There's no question that coupons can save shoppers serious money at check-out, but grocery coupons have come a long way since the days when they could only be found in the Sunday newspaper.

Good news for expectant or would-be moms with epilepsy

(ARA) - Mary Katherine Albritton had a normal childhood despite being diagnosed with epilepsy when she was 6 years old. Her parents worked to teach her about her condition, and she grew up to be a happy adult. But in 2005 she got a surprise -- she was pregnant. As an adult with epilepsy, she wondered about the risks to her and her fetus.

Keep an eye on your vision health this summer

(ARA) - If you've ever come in from a day sailing, picnicking or lying on the beach and your eyes felt tired, sore and gritty, you likely experienced ultraviolet radiation (UVR) overexposure. It's critical to protect your eyes from the sun's damaging rays to decrease your risk of developing serious vision issues such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, the leading causes of blindness.

Summer camp helps youth battle 'nature deficit disorder'

(ARA) - With a growing number of researchers reporting that millions of children suffer from a lack of outdoor exposure and play, summer break can increase parents' concerns about children spending beautiful days in front of the television, computer or gaming station.

Fun and Learning with Kids in the Kitchen

(ARA) - It's fun, it's messy, and it means time with an adult -- no wonder most kids love to cook. Kitchen duty provides plenty of learning opportunities for kids too. Problem is, for many parents, the goal of cooking is getting something on the table, pronto. And that's OK -- whipping up a nutritious meal using a mix or livening up leftovers together can also be a fun learning experience.

Four doctor-recommended tips for avoiding H1N1

(ARA) - It's not unusual to see viruses make headlines, but the recent threat of H1N1 swine flu has captured everyone's attention. On June 11, 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention raised the H1N1 pandemic status to level six, indicating an international pandemic. This change has left many people wondering what they can do to keep themselves and their families healthy.

Tasty summer dishes sizzle with sweet Vidalia onions

(ARA) - Maybe it was helping your grandma with her favorite summer recipe or shopping with your mom at the market when the first shipment of the season arrived. No matter the memory, Vidalia onions are as versatile and delicious today as they were back then.

Trail tips and locations for ATV fun

(ARA) - As the all-terrain vehicle riding season shifts into high gear, the sound of ATVs rolling over rocky hills and cruising down dirt paths is slowly building across the country.

Birders clubs -- beyond the binoculars

(ARA) - Bird watching is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the country. It's easy, inexpensive and relaxing. Best of all, wild birds are beautiful and fascinating to watch. They're also wonderful to listen to, and with more than 800 species in North America alone, there is something for everyone.

Five strategies to help you save on summer travel

(ARA) - After a long winter of hard work, inclement weather, schoolbooks and bad news on the economy, who couldn't use a break this summer? The recession probably has many American families reconsidering their summer vacation plans, but with some smart travel strategies, it is possible for the whole family to enjoy a budget-friendly summer getaway.

Helping kids stay strong during the summer months

(ARA) - Summer meals may taste great, but many also lack some of the essential nutrients kids need, especially when it comes to building and maintaining strong bones.

New to coupon-clipping? Tips for getting the most out of coupons

(ARA) - On top of working extra hours, slashing expenses and worrying about the future, the recession has a lot of us doing something we never did before -- clipping coupons.

Living wills protect you at all ages, stages of life

(ARA) - "People act as if death is contagious. It's not contagious, you know. Death is as natural as life," so said Morrie Schwartz in the 1997 best-seller by Mitch Albom, "Tuesdays with Morrie." The popular biography made death seem almost accessible given Morrie's comfort level talking about it. Yet, most people still avoid the topics of death and dying.

Simple Ways Parents Can Nurture Kids' Self Esteem

(ARA) - Most parents know that self esteem is important for a child's academic, social and emotional success. However, when it comes to nurturing their child's self esteem, empowering them to be themselves and encouraging them to follow their dreams, it's easy for parents to feel a bit lost. A few simple and positive steps are all it takes to start your child on the path to confidence.

How to Hit a Financial Planning Homerun

(ARA) - The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd as you round the bases. While hitting a homerun in the big leagues is only the stuff of dreams for most of us, baseball can serve as a wonderful analogy for our quest for financial security.

A healthy home in 15 minutes or less

(ARA) - Home is where the heart is, but what happens if your home becomes the enemy to your health? With Americans worrying more and more about airborne pathogens there has been a big push toward preventive health care solutions.

Easy solutions to clean up your digital life

(ARA) - Warm weather signals the time to get clutter under control. A time traditionally spent cleaning out nooks and crannies in the home, this season the trend is to organize your digital world, which as most of us know, can be a huge mess.

Temperatures Rising? Take Dinner Outdoors

(ARA) - Hot dogs, hamburgers and pork ribs aren't the healthiest eats in the bunch, especially if getting fit for the summertime is a priority. You won't have to compromise these good ol' grilling favorites at your next barbecue if lighter substitutions are made elsewhere.

Stay safe in the water this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings trips to the beach, splashing in lakes and rivers and parties by the pool. But that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if someone drowns. While it's unpleasant to think about the worst case scenario, it turns out approximately one in four U.S. adults knew someone who drowned and nearly half of adults say they've had a near-drowning experience, according to a recent American Red Cross survey.

Online coupons yield the most value when you shop for big-ticket items

(ARA) - Is hunting for online coupons costing you time instead of saving you money? If you spend your online time chasing coupons you could easily find elsewhere - like grocery or health and beauty items regularly advertised in your local paper - you're not getting the most for your time.

Five Summer Splurges for Less than $10

(ARA) - Even if you, like many Americans, are staying close to home this summer, you don't have to miss out on warm-weather indulgences. Despite lingering financial concerns, simple summer splurges still abound.

8 ways to protect you and your family online

(ARA) - In this day and age, we all have to be careful about how we share information online. Browsing the Web is the single most popular activity on the PC -- with both the time people spend on the Web and the range of things they can do continuing to grow. With social networking sites, online shopping, and online banking becoming more common and convenient, the risk of fraud or identity theft continues to grow. This kind of activity is on the rise every year.

Teaching Kids Lessons Beyond Dollars and Cents

(ARA) - To say that money matters have been getting a lot of attention as of late is an understatement. It's hard to turn on the television, read a newspaper or surf the Web without the topic coming up in one form or another. While many of us have grown used to the constant chatter, it might not be the case for children.

Leading expert says healthful aging depends on current daily habits

(ARA) - When it comes to healthful aging, a preventive approach is the key to success. By implementing some simple healthy habits today, we can achieve a healthier future. "Our bodies' health -- particularly as we age -- requires that we take precautionary measures to strengthen ourselves," explains Donnica L. Moore, MD, women's health expert and advocate, and editor in chief of Women's Health for Life (DK 2009). Consider her tips for healthful aging as part of an improved wellness plan.

Think You Can't Get Your Kids to Eat Their Veggies? Veg-ucate!

(ARA) - Ask any parent what foods kids want and what foods kids need, and they'll tell you the two rarely meet. In most cases, hot dogs trump tomatoes and animal crackers buck broccoli, causing many parents to wonder what they can do. But with spring blooming, green thumbs coming out of hibernation and gardens glowing in a few weeks, now is the perfect time to "veg-ucate" kids to like, and even want, veggies.

Help make summer safe for your child

(ARA) - Summer vacation is a great time for students but a time of concern for parents because all the extra free time means more opportunity to get into trouble.

Beef Producers and Consumers Share "Everyday Environmentalist" Practices

(ARA) - Mom is in charge of water conservation. Dad handles composting. The kids help make sure lights are off when they aren't needed. Is this life in many typical American homes these days? You bet, and it's a life shared by families across the country on America's beef farms and ranches.

Save money by keeping your clothes in great shape

(ARA) - In this economy, Americans are finding creative ways to get the most out of everything, and that includes their clothes. By maintaining your wardrobe in the right way, you can save money by making sure your favorite items stay beautiful and wearable for a long time.

Everyday wisdom for families of kids with diabetes

(ARA) - Parents are masters at juggling. But if you are a parent of a child with diabetes, you have to learn to juggle in a whole new way. When a child is diagnosed with a chronic disease like diabetes, everyday moments like finding a babysitter, taking a vacation or starting a school year become more of a challenge.

Summertime protection for mom and baby -- inside and out

(ARA) - Whether you're relaxing beachside on vacation, picnicking in the park or strolling through the neighborhood, warm weather offers many opportunities for outdoor fun. However, these activities can lead to dehydration, sunburn and fatigue if you're not careful. Barbara Dehn, women's health nurse practitioner and award-winning author, offers tips to keep mom and baby safe all summer long.

Food Allergy Safety 101

(ARA) - With the number of children with life-threatening food allergies on the rise, practicing food allergy safety is more important than ever. From closely reading labels to understanding hidden allergens and food manufacturing processes, there is a lot that can be done to keep children free of allergic reactions.

Reading classics helps prepare for back to school

(ARA) - Many middle and high schools give students summer reading lists to help them prepare for their next school year. Reading the classics can not only help kids get ready to go back to school and learn, but can be like reading an ancient version of today's news.

Getting kids to sleep while on the road

(ARA) - With the summer season upon us, many families will be flocking to the highways to embark on amusement ride-filled vacations, to camp at majestic national parks or to drive across the country to visit grandma and grandpa on the opposite coast. But with all of the excitement and fun away from home come missed naps and overstimulated kids who don't want to sleep at night.

The Safe Way to Drive Youngsters' Passion for Speed

(ARA) - Just one day after the premier of "Fast & Furious," a movie that spotlights the world of street racing, a mother and her 2-year-old child died in Charlotte, N.C., when their vehicle was caught in the middle of an apparently illegal street race. A 13-year-old passenger in one of the racing vehicles also died, and the driver of that car now faces three murder charges, police say.

Capture precious baby memories at every milestone

(ARA) - As a proud new parent, you want to make sure that you capture every precious moment of your new baby's life. It's tempting to hit the nearest photography studio for a quick professional session, but in these tough times, that can be costly and time-consuming. For families on a budget, learning how to take great photography at home can be easy and fun.

Closet clean out: Get your clothes in shape for summer

(ARA) - The average closet offers a not-so-roomy 5-foot by 2-foot amount of space. And for average people, that is not a whole lot of room to work with when it comes to storing all their clothes, shoes and accessories.

Smart strategies to increase home sale profits

(ARA) - The proposition of selling a home is getting better with each passing day according to a recently released report from the National Association of Realtors. If you need to sell your home, a few smart strategies can help you increase your profits.

Top Tips for Smart and Safe Travelers

(ARA) - You booked your trip and the excitement for your upcoming vacation increases as you count down the days before your travel adventure starts. But to help ensure your vacation becomes a travel delight and not a travel nightmare, there are some things you should consider prior to takeoff.

Top tips to help your child read at any age

(ARA) - A child's natural "learning window" is between the ages of birth and 4 to 5 years, research has shown. But the typical American school doesn't start teaching children to read until kindergarten. For parents, it may seem challenging to compete with television and video games, but helping your child learn to read is not only rewarding, but can prepare them for educational success.

How to raise children with a global appreciation

(ARA) - Families today tell many different stories. Each is comprised of different cultures, ancestry and heritage and because of this, many parents today want their children to celebrate their heritage and to grow up with a natural appreciation for different cultures. But for an infant or toddler, how does a parent open the door to understanding how groups of people who are different, are also very much alike in many very important ways?

Volunteer experience can provide hidden opportunities

(ARA) - Is there a silver lining to the hard economic times in our country? Even if you are experiencing challenging times, there is a way to lift your spirits while filling a need in your community. The message of public service is one Americans have been reminded of by President Barack Obama's administration, however finding a time and place for it can be challenging. That is unless you ask volunteers like Jeff Veum.

How you can recognize a woman who makes a difference in your community

(ARA) - Historically women are the shapers of home and family. But many women today extend their nurturing role to the entire community through activism and charity work that has a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

Personal Health Records Put Consumers in Control

(ARA) - Barb Kerecz is a busy woman. The Connecticut-based working mother of five has a lot of organizing and record keeping to do to keep household chaos under control. There are forms for everything -- immunization records, sports sign-up sheets, permission slips and other paperwork for her children's activities as well as her own. But there is a resource available that Kerecz relies on to simplify some of the most important documents -- her family's health records.

Secrets for Living Well While Spending Less

(ARA) - The current economic climate has prompted many people to reexamine their spending habits. But you don't have to slash your budget dramatically. You can make minor adjustments to spend less and still live well.

Can't sleep? Eye-opening facts about common sleep myths

(ARA) - Are you tired of feeling tired? Are sleepless nights interfering with your days? If so, you may be one of the approximately 30 million Americans who suffer from chronic insomnia. In fact, according to a national survey, 54 percent of adults said they have experienced symptoms of insomnia at least a few times a week.

Protect your pets from fleas and ticks

(ARA) - Summertime brings hot weather, camping trips and, for pet owners, fleas and ticks. These small bugs aren't a small concern. Ticks are second only to mosquitoes as vectors of human diseases, and flea and tick populations are on the rise nationwide.

Tips for moms to save time, money and energy

(ARA) - As a mom, you're always looking for ways to save time, money and energy to keep your house running smoothly. It's not always easy to find time in the day for all the things you need to do, from balancing the family budget to running errands to shuttling family members between activities.

Save money with sophisticated sun control

(ARA) - Do you ever wish you could create a more comfortable home environment while also having a positive impact on the environment? This can be your reality with motorized awnings and window coverings. Window covering and awning motorization has many benefits, one of which is reducing heat gain and loss -- which creates a more energy efficient home.

Three Simple Tips for an Affordable Family Camping Trip

(ARA) - When faced with financial challenges like those posed by the recent economic downturn, American families tend to react to their decreased discretionary dollars by getting "back to basics." They pursue different leisure activities and ones that offer quality time that can bring them closer together.

Turn off the TV, turn on the oven and turn down the spending

(ARA) - With less money for the movies or a night on the town, families are nesting more at home. In fact, according to Pew Research Center, 85 percent of Americans have made personal spending cutbacks. Further, Nielsen Company reports television viewing is at an all time high, with the average American viewer spending more than 151 hours a month (almost five hours a day) in front of the tube. Don't let the tough economy keep your family from talking and laughing together -- get up, get creative and get baking cookies.

Smart financial tips for teens and parents

(ARA) - Are you a parent of a teenager? Does your teen expect you to dole out cash like an ATM? Does your child know the word "budget?" As many families take a hard look at their finances in light of the current economy, many are seizing the opportunity to instill money management skills and financial responsibility in their children.

Adding deck lights a simple way to enhance outdoor living

(ARA) - As summer rolls in and guests show up, the benefit of having outdoor living space for relaxing and entertaining becomes readily apparent. Homeowners love having extra space where they can hang out, and outdoor environments are a huge plus for those trying to sell or rent out a home.

The Good Fat You Must Eat: The Benefits of DHA

(ARA) - You have probably heard that omega-3s are good for you, particularly the omega-3 fat DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Surprisingly, despite all of the reported health benefits of DHA, the American population is not getting enough of this important nutrient. In fact, the U.S. has one of the lowest average intakes of DHA in the world, and children are particularly at risk.

How to Help Kids 'Go Green'

(ARA) - Kids are increasingly aware of the issues impacting their environment, and are even more engaged and excited about making their world a greener place. Parents can involve their children in "going green" with a few simple steps, and show them how they, too, can make a big contribution to Mother Earth.

Summer's freshest ideas to feed your kids well

(ARA) - Summertime brings out the best in family meals -- fresh vegetables and fruit, fresh-air dining and a fresh opportunity for parents to maintain their commitment to feeding their kids well.

What's old is new for parents looking to save money

(ARA) - Because raising a child in tough economic times can be expensive and financially challenging, many families are looking for ways to reduce their spending without having to sacrifice their family's well-being. This has resulted in a slew of families getting creative by making old items new again.

Ordinary Americans make a difference in the lives of former foster children

(ARA) - Making the transition into college is a challenge even under the best of circumstances. Imagine how much more difficult it must be when a young person has no support system whatsoever -- no parents to help pave the way, no "Bank of Mom and Dad" to fall back on, no loved one to simply listen at the end of a difficult day.

Camping Tips for Parents

(ARA) - Camping can help create lifelong memories for adults and children alike, which is one of the reasons it is the No. 1 outdoor activity in America. But before you pack up the tent and start the long drive, remember that proper preparation for a camping trip is important, especially when kids are involved.

Natural remedies help kids breathe easy

(ARA) - For millions of adults and children, warm weather means it's time to devote attention to nasal health. Just as you want to spend more time outside, the higher temperatures make greater attention to healthy breathing a must.

Fashion Beauty Fitness  (top)

Dress for success and comfort at work

(ARA) - Wondering what to wear at the office as the temperature climbs this summer? Fashion experts at The Art Institutes have some words to live by when dressing for success at your workplace.

Looking better helps cancer patients feel better

(ARA) - For Nancy Lumb, one of the hardest parts of having cancer was dealing with the appearance-related side effects of treatment.

6 summer wardrobe essentials every woman needs

(ARA) - Are the warm rays of the sun inspiring your inner fashionista? Summer is the perfect season to jazz up your wardrobe with fun and fashionable items that make you look great. But how do you know where to start in a fashion world that offers endless possibilities?

Walk your way into a healthier lifestyle

(ARA) - When it comes to weight loss, activity is essential to obtaining results and supporting a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity can produce long term health benefits and is a key component in the fight against overweight and obesity. Now is the perfect time to learn how easy it is to get started.

Keep an eye on your vision health this summer

(ARA) - If you've ever come in from a day sailing, picnicking or lying on the beach and your eyes felt tired, sore and gritty, you likely experienced ultraviolet radiation (UVR) overexposure. It's critical to protect your eyes from the sun's damaging rays to decrease your risk of developing serious vision issues such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, the leading causes of blindness.

'Scent-ual' ways to enhance your outdoor enjoyment this summer

(ARA) - Every season has its signature scents and summer is no exception. What summer scent stimulates your senses? Is it freshly mown grass? Or perhaps the faint smell of coconut that makes you think of sunscreen and summer afternoons at the beach? Or even the fragrant hint of lavender or rose from the flower garden?

Four fun ways to capture life's memories

(ARA) - Life is full of unique experiences and memorable events. But often our most significant moments are fleeting. So we rely on memories -- and the tradition of storytelling -- to keep them alive.

Pools and hot tubs -- a fun way to stay fit

(ARA) - Swimming pools and hot tubs are just plain fun, but many people overlook the health benefits. Just about anyone, regardless of age or physical condition, can gain health benefits from swimming.

Affordable Ways to Add 'Green' to Your Wardrobe

(ARA) - In this harsh economic climate, "green" shoppers are looking to save more than the environment; they are looking to save their money too. A recent survey finds that consumers these days are unwilling to spend more on pricier environmentally friendly items. But just because some consumers are turning away from green products due to the price doesn't mean that there aren't affordable green alternatives on the market.

Use technology as a trainer

(ARA) - Summer is here. Say 'so long' to the stuffy gym and hello to biking, swimming and outdoor exercise. An added bonus -- no more gym fees.

Men vs. women -- understanding the bathroom gender divide

(ARA) - Ever wonder what your significant other is doing behind the shower curtain? Curious as to why women consistently take longer showers than men? Whether the toilet seat is left up or down or the toothpaste cap is left on or off -- the differences between men and women's bathroom habits are undeniable.

Don't let stains ruin your summer

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce dripped on your favorite blouse to the cherry popsicle the kids smeared on the patio furniture cushions, summer is the season of stains. But stained clothes and upholstery probably don't make the kind of style statement you'd like as you entertain this summer.

Top 5 must-have summer beauty essentials

(ARA) - Summer means making memories with friends and loved ones. There are more cameras at summer events than there are at a movie premiere, and you'll want to look your best while you beat the heat.

'Yes You Can' Afford Plastic Surgery … Despite the Ugly Economy

(ARA) - With unemployment at an all-time high, it is becoming a necessity for Americans to put their best face forward. More of us are turning to less costly, non-invasive cosmetic "touch ups" to look competent and feel confident, whether in the workplace, or pounding the pavement.

Your summer beauty routine, inspired by nature

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and it's time to update your beauty routine for summer. Why not take some inspiration from warm weather's renewal theme and refresh your beauty regimen?

Cardio-phobic? Fit mom of 4 shares workout secrets

(ARA) - Megan Johnson did something at 33 that she'd dreamed of since college -- she entered a bodybuilding, figure and fitness competition and placed a respectable seventh in the figure category.

Get the Most Fashion Bang for Your Buck with Accessories

(ARA) - If you are like many, you want to find versatile clothing while sticking to a budget. So how do you get the most out of your wardrobe without spending a lot of money? When you need a fashion thrill without the expensive price tag, turn to accessories.

Make a delicious decision to drink more water

(ARA) - Picture this: You're out on the go on a hot summer day and you realize you're thirsty. You want something different, but you're not sure what beverage you should reach for to quench that thirst.

Go beyond green with eco-friendly beauty trends

(ARA) - Green living doesn't have to mean forgoing the latest looks, especially when eco-conscious beauty is the hottest thing going. Formulations driven by nature, practices that are kind to the earth and minimal packaging are all cool ways to celebrate the warm weather.

Cut connections to find comfort in the outdoors

(ARA) - Between conference calls, cooking dinner and clipping coupons, women are escaping to the outdoors this summer for an everyday oasis from stress.

Classic Style Trumps Trends for a Wedding You'll Still Love in 20 Years

(ARA) - Wedding album, videos and a carefully preserved gown -- your wedding mementoes are meant to be precious reminders of your special day. But you may find yourself cringing with shame when you look at your album years down the road if you choose trendy over traditional style for the look of your wedding.

Keep your favorite summer clothes looking like new

(ARA) - Summer fashion always calls for bright, fun colors that are a welcome relief after a long winter of black and gray. However, those bright summer clothes come at a cost -- more maintenance and tricky summertime stains. There are tricks you can use to keep your favorite summer clothes looking as fresh and bright in September as they did in May.

'Back to school' means 'back to basics' for kids' clothing

(ARA) - Back to school season can be trying on a family's budget. In addition to each classroom's list of school supplies and the kids' pleas for extras, there are plenty of expenses that don't appear on the class list. School clothes often top the list and deplete the budget. Learning how to care for clothing is an often overlooked piece of the puzzle.

Dance your way to comfort

(ARA) - Your high-heeled summer sandals are calling out for a night of dancing, but your feet may be begging for a break. Before you call it a night, know that dancing can help tone and elongate muscles, instill confidence and reduce stress -- but your feet can take a beating.

Love energy drinks? How to choose a crash-free option

(ARA) - Since the first can charged onto the market in 1997, energy drinks have become a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States. But when you reach for an energy drink to give you a boost before a big game, workout, critical test or work project, what is the real cost of that rush?

Food Recipes Entertaining  (top)

How to keep summer foods fresh and safe

(ARA) - Summer is the season to be outdoors with friends and family at picnics, barbecues and many other events. But the warm weather also brings an increase in foodborne illnesses when food sits out in hot, humid conditions. Make sure your summer party is memorable for reasons other than food poisoning by taking steps to keep food fresh and safe.

Flip Burgers with Mother Nature -- Grill Green This Summer

(ARA) - Each spring, millions of grilling enthusiasts dust off the grill in anticipation of another fun-filled summer of backyard barbecues. But at what cost to the environment? According to Sierra magazine, the estimated 60 million barbecues held on the Fourth of July alone in the U.S. consume enough energy -- in the forms of charcoal, lighter fluid, gas and electricity -- to power 20,000 households for a year.

Please picky eaters with kid-friendly favorites

(ARA) - What's the best way to get picky eaters to enjoy good-for-you foods? Get kids involved in preparing meals and snacks. Experts agree that when children lend a hand (or two) in meal preparation, they are much more likely to eat what they're proud to have helped make.

Think You Can't Get Your Kids to Eat Their Veggies? Veg-ucate!

(ARA) - Ask any parent what foods kids want and what foods kids need, and they'll tell you the two rarely meet. In most cases, hot dogs trump tomatoes and animal crackers buck broccoli, causing many parents to wonder what they can do. But with spring blooming, green thumbs coming out of hibernation and gardens glowing in a few weeks, now is the perfect time to "veg-ucate" kids to like, and even want, veggies.

Potatoes Pack a Hearty Punch

(ARA) - It's no secret that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America, where one in every three Americans is at high risk, according to the American Heart Association. Sadly, most people don't know about the risk.

Temperatures Rising? Take Dinner Outdoors

(ARA) - Hot dogs, hamburgers and pork ribs aren't the healthiest eats in the bunch, especially if getting fit for the summertime is a priority. You won't have to compromise these good ol' grilling favorites at your next barbecue if lighter substitutions are made elsewhere.

Five Summer Splurges for Less than $10

(ARA) - Even if you, like many Americans, are staying close to home this summer, you don't have to miss out on warm-weather indulgences. Despite lingering financial concerns, simple summer splurges still abound.

Burger season is back -- don't forget the basics

(ARA) - Americans love hamburgers ... that's a fact. An estimated 1.5 billion pounds of ground beef become those favored burgers cooked at home each year. Whether it's gas versus charcoal, with cheese or without, every burger fan has a different opinion about what makes the perfect patty.

Turn the Typical Backyard Barbecue into a Hot Spot for Fun and Flavor

(ARA) - Many American families will forego the traditional summer vacation travel this year and spend more time than ever making home-spun fun in the sun at the backyard barbecue. But if your version of barbecuing involves the same old fare and familiar flavors, it's time to spice up your old standby.

A delicious summer twist on American classics

(ARA) - Summer is the time when we break out the grill and dust off the picnic basket to celebrate warm weather with friends and loved ones. It's also the time people bring out classic summer treats from tasty, hot barbecue to all-American apple pie. But classic doesn't have to mean boring when you add a few delicious summer twists.

A cool and refreshing twist for summer meals

(ARA) - Summer is the time for backyard entertaining, whether it's a simple sandwich lunch with a few friends or a patio party for the neighbors.

Explore World Flavors with Pantry Staples

(ARA) - Just because grocery budgets are tight, doesn't mean flavor needs to suffer. Preparing dishes inspired by traditional cuisine from around the world is an easy way to add excitement to everyday meals, without breaking the bank or buying an expensive plane ticket. Try exploring the flavors of the world right in your own kitchen, by using key ingredients from your pantry for authentic flavor.

Reduce Stress and Refocus Your Life

(ARA) - With everyone trying to do more with less these days, it is easy to become over-stressed and fall into a rut of performing the same monotonous tasks over and over. By introducing creativity, variety and excitement to your day, you can help avoid succumbing to everyday stress. For example, stress levels can be elevated when it comes to mealtime, as the thought of creating different meals night after night can be daunting.

Sweeten Summer with Cool, Refreshing Smoothies

(ARA) - Warm summer days call for the perfect frosty refreshment. Try homemade fruit smoothies -- sweetened naturally with pure honey. Creating your own creamy concoctions is easy -- simply blend together your favorite fruits with ice cubes, milk or yogurt and a touch of honey. Honey is the secret ingredient to enhancing the sweet flavors of the fruits.

Curb overeating during summer months

(ARA) - The grill is, perhaps, the main reason why many people gain weight during the summer.

Plan the perfect summer soiree

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to journey outdoors and mingle with family and friends. However, the stress of hosting summer get-togethers can sometimes be discouraging. This year, avoid a meltdown and make your next barbecue or block party a breeze by keeping in mind the following party preparation tips:

Fun and Learning with Kids in the Kitchen

(ARA) - It's fun, it's messy, and it means time with an adult -- no wonder most kids love to cook. Kitchen duty provides plenty of learning opportunities for kids too. Problem is, for many parents, the goal of cooking is getting something on the table, pronto. And that's OK -- whipping up a nutritious meal using a mix or livening up leftovers together can also be a fun learning experience.

Summer's freshest ideas to feed your kids well

(ARA) - Summertime brings out the best in family meals -- fresh vegetables and fruit, fresh-air dining and a fresh opportunity for parents to maintain their commitment to feeding their kids well.

Create a Latin culinary experience at home

(ARA) - In Mexico, the heart of the family resides in the kitchen where friends and family share the comforts of great, flavorful meals. A number of influences from Mexican and Latin culture have affected Americans in how we celebrate, cook and eat. And more of us, no matter what heritage, are spending more time dining at home with our families. With the popularity of Mexican and Latin dishes on the rise, you can celebrate spending time with family while enjoying an authentic Mexican meal in your own kitchen.

Grilled beef adds sizzle to summer meals

(ARA) - It's that time of year when enticing smells from the grill waft from yard to yard, tempting taste buds. When it comes to selecting what type of meat to grill for your friends and family, beef ranks supreme.

Nutrition vital for good eyesight, studies show

(ARA) - Caring for eyes includes paying attention to nutrition, with recent studies showing a strong correlation between good nutrition and the prevention of age-related eye diseases.

Marinate your grilled fare for taste and safety

(ARA) - Literally soaked in flavor, marinated foods are undeniably delicious. But did you know that marinating also makes your grilled foods safer?

Summer guide to guiltless grilling

(ARA) - People around the country are getting ready to enjoy the great outdoors and fire up the grill on a warm summer day. The warmer weather and longer days are perfect for enjoying fresh flavorful foods and outdoor activities such as walking.

Big, Bountiful Salads That Satisfy

(ARA) - The days when salads were strictly a side dish to something more important -- they're so over. A big, bountiful salad deserves to be the center of attention.

Wholesome summertime snacking made simple

(ARA) - Whether by the pool, in the park, or on vacation, warm weather ushers in a season of constant activity. Keeping the family energized during the summer months is important. These easy steps will help make wholesome summertime snacking simple and interesting, no matter the time or place.

Helping kids stay strong during the summer months

(ARA) - Summer meals may taste great, but many also lack some of the essential nutrients kids need, especially when it comes to building and maintaining strong bones.

Growing list of 'superfruits' pack a nutritional wallop

(ARA) - Powering up your diet with superfruit-rich dishes can be easier than you think. The superfruit title is no longer reserved for berries -- nutritionists now include other antioxidant- and vitamin-rich juicy gems on the superfruit list, such as peaches, mangos and oranges.

Fourth of July grilling safety tips

(ARA) - Independence Day is the most popular outdoor cooking holiday of the year with more than two-thirds of Americans firing up the grill, smoker or fryer, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. A few simple steps can help you prepare your grill to make sure you have a safe backyard celebration.

Create memorable outdoor parties for less

(ARA) - The backyard will be the summer entertainment hot spot as Americans seek affordable ways to spend time with family and friends. But your outdoor party can be spoiled quickly if unwelcome insects show up.

Easy ways to tap olive oil's goodness

(ARA) - Pure, all-natural foods have been gaining in popularity. From choosing whole-wheat pastas over enriched pasta to brown rice over white rice, Americans are paying more attention to what they eat.

Create Your Own Vending Machine to Avoid Office Snacking Pitfalls

(ARA) - You glance at the clock on your desk as your stomach begins to growl and realize you have hit the 3 p.m. slump -- that vulnerable time after lunch yet still hours from dinner. In order to satisfy your hunger, you look for a quick fix to help you finish out the day. However, stuck at the office, with deadlines looming and energy levels low, your choices may not be as sensible or healthy as you would like. In fact, nearly 75 percent of consumers questioned in a recent survey by Impulse Research consider quite a few to all of their snack choices unhealthy.

Stretch Grocery Budget with Frozen Fruit

(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind these days. Gas prices may have fallen, but other costs are still rising. One place Americans are being more frugal than ever is with their food budgets.

Picnics: Beyond Potato Chips and Turkey Sandwiches

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor recreation and commune with nature. No matter which coast you reside on -- the Atlantic or the Pacific -- or somewhere in the middle, near a lake or a pond, a shoreline picnic is a perfect retreat. Picnics are a great way to reconnect with family and friends. Lovers are synonymous with picnics, especially when a proposal or anniversary is cause for celebration.

Tasty summer dishes sizzle with sweet Vidalia onions

(ARA) - Maybe it was helping your grandma with her favorite summer recipe or shopping with your mom at the market when the first shipment of the season arrived. No matter the memory, Vidalia onions are as versatile and delicious today as they were back then.

Freshen up your fridge with healthy foods

(ARA) - Summer is filled with vacations, outdoor activities and, of course, lots of exciting meals. But just because you're busy doesn't mean you have to sacrifice delicious for nutritious.

Simple steps to reduce sodium in your summer dining

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce you slather on your grilled chicken to the frozen dinner you grab between coming home from work and running the kids to soccer practice, sodium is simply everywhere in warm-weather fare.

Groceries from the Backyard: A Harvest of Savings

(ARA) - The economy is tanking, grocery bills are climbing and food safety scares are on the rise. For the 43 million Americans planning a vegetable garden this year, growing your own is a matter of dollars and sense.

Summer family fun with blueberries

(ARA) - Summer brings warm weather, a break from school and endless hours spent outdoors with friends and family. Summer is also a time for good eating, with farmer's markets and roadside stands brimming over with the fruits and berries of the season. Locally grown blueberries are available in most areas of the country and from all reports, this year's supply is excellent.

Selecting and grilling the season's freshest fish

(ARA) - There are few summer pastimes more honored than backyard grilling and entertaining. But before you fire up the grill for your next bash or weeknight dinner, you should learn how to properly select and grill fresh fish to perfection.

Flavorful, Budget-friendly Fun Foods

(ARA) - With the economy affecting your budget, your family is staying home for more meals. So it's more important than ever to get the most for your dollar when shopping for healthy foods at the grocery store.

Healthy Grocery Shopping on a Budget

(ARA) - American households are rediscovering the art of cooking at home. More than 35 percent of consumers are cutting back on their restaurant dining, according to a recent American Research Group study. As many of us make this shift away from our favorite eateries, you may be tempted to turn to fast food rather than your kitchen.

Let Mother Nature be your guide for summer entertaining

(ARA) - As the cost of an evening out continues to grow, so does the trend of staying home to entertain family and friends. If you're a budget-conscious consumer, you don't have to spend a fortune to dazzle your guests; experts say you can get some of the best summer decorating ideas from Mother Nature.

Turn off the TV, turn on the oven and turn down the spending

(ARA) - With less money for the movies or a night on the town, families are nesting more at home. In fact, according to Pew Research Center, 85 percent of Americans have made personal spending cutbacks. Further, Nielsen Company reports television viewing is at an all time high, with the average American viewer spending more than 151 hours a month (almost five hours a day) in front of the tube. Don't let the tough economy keep your family from talking and laughing together -- get up, get creative and get baking cookies.

Great dinners start on the grill

(ARA) - Dinnertime is a lot more fun as the grilling season gets under way and aromas of sizzling food fill the air. In fact, there's a good case to make for cooking the whole dinner on the grill.

'Functional foods' that pack a healthy antioxidant punch

(ARA) - Antioxidants work in our bodies to prevent or slow the damage done by free radicals. Like rust on a car, oxidation can damage our cells and may contribute to age-related health problems. Antioxidants are known to provide anti-aging properties and, according to the American Dietetic Association, may even increase immune function and possibly decrease the risk of infection and cancer.

Spring Clean Your Fridge and Pantry for Your Family's Health

(ARA) - You clean your windows and vacuum your rugs for spring cleaning. But have you looked inside your fridge and pantry lately? They're begging for a spring cleaning, too.

Food Allergy Safety 101

(ARA) - With the number of children with life-threatening food allergies on the rise, practicing food allergy safety is more important than ever. From closely reading labels to understanding hidden allergens and food manufacturing processes, there is a lot that can be done to keep children free of allergic reactions.

Fresh and Healthy Tips for Delicious Dinners

(ARA) - Whether dining out or making a night of it at home, it's easy to turn everyday meals into special treats by adding healthy, versatile and affordable options. With more than 40 years of experience, Tony Seta is one of only 61 Certified Master Chefs in the United States, an accreditation awarded by the American Culinary Federation. Now, Seta is serving up five tasty tips to makeover your next meal, at home or out on the town.

Iced coffee: A cool way to entertain this summer

(ARA) - As summer draws near and warm weather arrives, the summer entertaining season will be here before you know it. And now more than ever, people are looking for economical ways to entertain at home while maintaining their own signature style.

Gift Ideas  (top)

Turn Ordinary Digital Photos into Lasting Memories

(ARA) - At this time of year, it seems people are taking more pictures than ever. Another school year is wrapping up -- there are graduations, proms and sporting events. And don't forget about summer holidays, family vacations, reunions and weddings. Without a doubt, the digital camera has made it easier than ever for anyone to capture hundreds -- even thousands -- of pictures of these cherished moments. But this modern marvel of technology has been both a blessing and a curse.

Four fun ways to capture life's memories

(ARA) - Life is full of unique experiences and memorable events. But often our most significant moments are fleeting. So we rely on memories -- and the tradition of storytelling -- to keep them alive.

Share the workload, then the fun

(ARA) - Now that summer is here and kids are out of school, families can make more time for summer fun by making quick work of pesky household chores. When all hands are on deck -- even the little ones -- the chores are completed faster, leaving more time for fun in the summer sun.

Catch Orchid Fever

(ARA) - From corsages pinned to prom dresses to exotic specimens in greenhouses, orchids are the most glamorous flowering plants in the world, but few know just how easy orchids are to grow and how affordable they've become.

Green Living  (top)

Get more for your money when purchasing replacement windows

(ARA) - Energy efficiency has gained national importance and window replacement is recognized as one pathway to aid in energy independence and the reduction of harmful global emissions.

Lengthen the life of your cut flowers

(ARA) - In the mood to bring the bounty of the outdoors inside? The amazing colors, fragrances and textures of your flower garden can easily be brought indoors, arranged and appreciated throughout the summer and fall months.

Create a Smarter Home in a Down Economy

(ARA) - A tight economy means most American homeowners are keeping close watch on their budgets, cutting spending on frivolities and extras.

Greening Your Home can Earn You a Tax Credit

(ARA) - Spring is here, summer's just around the corner and it's time to break out of that winter funk. With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Americans spent $170.8 billion on home improvement projects in fourth quarter 2008, exceeding new home investment, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Fast, Easy Green Tips for Everyday Life on a Budget

(ARA) - If the current economy has you thinking you don't have the time or money to reduce your impact on the environment, think again -- you might be surprised to know that living a greener lifestyle can actually put money back in your pocket. It's a matter of figuring out what works best for you and making simple changes that often require little or no time or investment.

Five Ways to Make Your Home and Wallet Greener

(ARA) - With tightened budgets, you may be surprised to learn that going green at home is not only good for the planet but also good for your pocket book.

Go beyond green with eco-friendly beauty trends

(ARA) - Green living doesn't have to mean forgoing the latest looks, especially when eco-conscious beauty is the hottest thing going. Formulations driven by nature, practices that are kind to the earth and minimal packaging are all cool ways to celebrate the warm weather.

Open the door to more energy savings and summer fun

(ARA) - With home entertaining on the rise and backyard barbecue season in full swing, make sure your home is ready for hot fun and high-traffic summer activities. And keep in mind the potential energy savings you can earn with renovations.

Flip Burgers with Mother Nature -- Grill Green This Summer

(ARA) - Each spring, millions of grilling enthusiasts dust off the grill in anticipation of another fun-filled summer of backyard barbecues. But at what cost to the environment? According to Sierra magazine, the estimated 60 million barbecues held on the Fourth of July alone in the U.S. consume enough energy -- in the forms of charcoal, lighter fluid, gas and electricity -- to power 20,000 households for a year.

Keep your cat green and happy

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and we are all thinking about eco-friendly ways to refresh our homes.

Solar Water Heating Can Save Money and Pay Off Big

(ARA) - Green-minded homeowners can continue to turn to the sky for help in coping with rising energy costs for years to come thanks to an extension of the solar tax credit program by Congress.

Top 5 Ways to Save Water at Home

(ARA) - Less than 3 percent of the Earth's water is fresh water and much of that is inaccessible to people. Additionally, at least 36 states anticipate experiencing water shortages by 2013, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. So, if you could easily save water and save money at the same time, why wouldn't you?

Boomers join the green movement with natural light

(ARA) - Older Americans who add more natural light to their living quarters when they move or remodel benefit from improved vision and mood in a safer environment. And daylighting, which utilizes no energy and carries no ongoing costs, is another benefit to the pocketbook of boomers on fixed incomes.

How to Promote Sustainability without Sacrifice at Home

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to think green. The sun is shining and plants are in bloom -- so why not get inspired to consider adding a bit of green to your lifestyle? Here's a look at how you can reduce your consumption of the earth's resources to help preserve them for years to come.

House cleaning: Good for your wallet, your spirit and the environment

(ARA) - House cleaning chores can actually feel therapeutic -- cleansing your home and spirit of accumulated dirt and clutter. But did you know that cleaning can also benefit your household budget and the environment?

Spruce up your home this summer

(ARA) - The warmer weather has us flinging the drapes open, pushing up the windows and taking a deep breath of fresh air into our lungs. Yes, the warm weather has arrived and it's time to shake off all the dust and give our homes, and ourselves, a shiny makeover.

It's a great time to be a 'window shopper'

(ARA) - Many doors are closing due to the economy, but certain windows are becoming easier to open. The 2009/2010 tax credit for energy efficient replacement windows, one of 10 provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is helping homeowners to remodel America one house at a time.

Water-conserving, money-saving tips for summer gardens

(ARA) - Summer 2009 may be a bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according to the National Weather Service's Seasonal Drought Outlook. But it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically, to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping efforts.

Ways to go natural, healthier this cleaning season

(ARA) - A clean home is a healthy home, right? Not necessarily. As you gear up for the cleaning season, pause to consider the impact chemical-based cleaners and other products can have on your health, your family's health and your environment.

Enjoy the benefits of gardening -- for you and for the planet

(ARA) - While some people see gardening as simply playing in the dirt, the physical and mental benefits are well-documented. In addition to being good for your mind and body, sustainable gardening is a great way to be kind to the planet, and to connect you to nature and the food you eat.

Spending on your home can save in the long run

(ARA) - Now that warmer weather is here, people are gearing up to make some repairs and updates to their homes. From new roofs and siding to adding state-of-art kitchen and other household appliances, people have more options than ever when it comes to making purchases that can help them save money and the environment.

How a Small Business Can Be Green and Save Money at the Same Time

(ARA) - More and more businesses are becoming aware of the impact that their daily actions have on the environment. They are also discovering that being environmentally friendly can potentially equate to big savings. But how does the smart business owner know where to start?

Backyard Buzz: How to Attract Hummingbirds

(ARA) - If the birding world had a rock star, it would be the hummingbird. Swift, tiny, secretive and simply amazing to watch, "hummers" are so hard to spot that catching a glimpse of one can be a summer experience you'll long remember. But you don't have to be an avid birder to be thrilled by the sight of a hummingbird.

Flavorful Landscapes -- A Growing Trend

(ARA) - Nothing beats the flavor of a fresh-from-the-garden tomato; warmed by the sun, plucked right from the plant and eaten in the garden.

Enjoying outdoor fun this summer? Don't forget to make recycling part of your day

(ARA) - Outdoor fun in the form of softball games, barbecues, parades, concerts and running events is a great way to enjoy the summer. However, these activities can also generate a substantial amount of trash. Bottles, cans and other materials from public events are often thrown away, but they present a great opportunity to help the community and the environment through recycling.

What Shade of Green Are You?

(ARA) - If you thought green was a trend primarily embraced by Gen X and Yers, think again.

Can your dog save the planet?

(ARA) - We all think our dogs are super, but could your dog help save the planet by reducing landfill waste? How you train your dog has a big impact on the environment and on your wallet.

Go green as you clean

(ARA) - Is your cleaning really as clean as you think it is? Warm summer weather brings with it open doors and windows, grass, sand and an endless array of dirt and germs. In the battle to keep your living space clean and healthy, are you using conventional cleaning products with caustic and toxic ingredients? They can be just as harmful as the grime and bacteria they're meant to eliminate.

Decrease Your Home's Carbon Footprint and Save

(ARA) - Let's face it, the earth needs our help and families everywhere are looking for ways to help out. Recycling, driving less and bringing reusable bags to the grocery stores are great ways to reduce your family's carbon footprint, but did you know there are things you can do to reduce the impact your home has on the environment, not to mention your wallet?

Simple Ways to Reap the Rewards of Getting Back to Nature

(ARA) - Spring is just around the corner. How will you spend those extra hours of daylight? Longer spring days signal the perfect time to get outdoors, yet according to The Nature Conservancy, nature-related activities, such as fishing, hiking, and visits to public parks, have declined between 18 percent and 25 percent since 1981.

What's old is new for parents looking to save money

(ARA) - Because raising a child in tough economic times can be expensive and financially challenging, many families are looking for ways to reduce their spending without having to sacrifice their family's well-being. This has resulted in a slew of families getting creative by making old items new again.

American Hardwoods: Nature's 'Greenest' Choice

(ARA) - When it comes to "greening" a new or existing home, many consumers simply do not have the facts about American hardwood as an environmentally-friendly building material choice. Wood misconceptions abound.

Have a Great Lawn That's Good to the Earth

(ARA) - Caring for the environment means caring for a full, green lawn. Properly maintaining your lawn will produce strong grass and can help protect and conserve water resources at the same time.

Make every day Earth Day

(ARA) - Making an effort to help save Mother Earth is a great way to get involved, but it shouldn't only be the focus one day a year. The need for environmentally conscious behavior is ever-present. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates that each individual generates approximately 1.5 tons of waste per year -- that breaks down to 4.5 pounds per person, per day! This means that one individual making the decision to be more environmentally conscious can have a huge impact.

A bright idea for green remodeling: venting skylights

(ARA) - As green building and remodeling practices become standard procedure, the use of more natural light and passive ventilation is here to stay.

Stimulus helps homeowners save money

(ARA) - "What's in it for me?" Homeowners will love the answer to that question as they learn more about the new federal economic stimulus bill. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, generally known as the stimulus package, offers special tax credit incentives to homeowners to encourage energy efficiency -- the best part is it's easy.

Save money with sophisticated sun control

(ARA) - Do you ever wish you could create a more comfortable home environment while also having a positive impact on the environment? This can be your reality with motorized awnings and window coverings. Window covering and awning motorization has many benefits, one of which is reducing heat gain and loss -- which creates a more energy efficient home.

Ceiling fans can save you energy all year long

(ARA) - Gas and energy prices are rising again, and that means Americans must tighten their belts even further. You don't need to dread hot summer temps and high air conditioning bills when you have ceiling fans in your home.

Lawn Mowing: Get Reel, Go Gas-free

(ARA) - Warm weather arrives with the melodic chipping of songbirds preparing their nests. What? Can't hear them? The steady rumble of lawn mowers not only drowns out nature's melodies, it disturbs wildlife and sleeping neighbors, and is an unhealthy source of summertime air pollution.

'Green' Equals Green with Ceramic Tile

(ARA) - For homeowners, good news has been hard to come by in this bleak economy. So it may come as a happy surprise to many to learn that the two most compelling trends in home remodeling and maintenance -- pinching pennies and going "green" -- are quite compatible with each other.

Homeowners warm up to tax credit for wood- and pellet-fueled heat

(ARA) - For warmth and beauty in the home, it's hard to beat the ambience of a real wood-burning stove or fireplace. Homeowners now have another reason to warm up to one - they may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500 if they purchase and install a 75-percent efficient wood- or pellet-burning (biomass) stove in 2009 or 2010. Thirty-percent of the total cost, including the appliance, installation and piping, can be claimed.

Your summer beauty routine, inspired by nature

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and it's time to update your beauty routine for summer. Why not take some inspiration from warm weather's renewal theme and refresh your beauty regimen?

Groceries from the Backyard: A Harvest of Savings

(ARA) - The economy is tanking, grocery bills are climbing and food safety scares are on the rise. For the 43 million Americans planning a vegetable garden this year, growing your own is a matter of dollars and sense.

Spend money to save money

(ARA) - Sometimes you have to spend money to save money. The average household spends about $2,000 on energy bills every year. If you switched to appliances and lighting products that are Energy Star rated, you could save $75 a year in energy costs.

Affordable Ways to Add 'Green' to Your Wardrobe

(ARA) - In this harsh economic climate, "green" shoppers are looking to save more than the environment; they are looking to save their money too. A recent survey finds that consumers these days are unwilling to spend more on pricier environmentally friendly items. But just because some consumers are turning away from green products due to the price doesn't mean that there aren't affordable green alternatives on the market.

Simple Ways to Be Green and Save Green When You Shop

(ARA) - In the early days of the "green" movement, some practical-minded Americans may have considered an eco-friendly lifestyle a costly luxury they couldn't afford. Now, however, people are increasingly viewing green habits as cost-cutting measures they can't afford to pass over.

Recycling Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Is a Bright Idea

(ARA) - Are you trying to find ways to green your home and save some money on your energy bills? You can do both by replacing incandescent light bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs.

How to Help Kids 'Go Green'

(ARA) - Kids are increasingly aware of the issues impacting their environment, and are even more engaged and excited about making their world a greener place. Parents can involve their children in "going green" with a few simple steps, and show them how they, too, can make a big contribution to Mother Earth.

Beef Producers and Consumers Share "Everyday Environmentalist" Practices

(ARA) - Mom is in charge of water conservation. Dad handles composting. The kids help make sure lights are off when they aren't needed. Is this life in many typical American homes these days? You bet, and it's a life shared by families across the country on America's beef farms and ranches.

Easy, green and inexpensive container gardens brighten your day

(ARA) - Now more than ever we are all looking for ways to find affordable, earth-friendly hobbies and leisure activities to bring us moments of pleasure in a stressful world. Investing in a planter or two (or more!) this summer can provide you with colorful blooms or delicious vegetables to brighten each day throughout the growing season.

Make Your Home Friendly to Those With Asthma and Allergies

(ARA) - Asthma and allergies strike nearly one in four Americans, almost 60 million people, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Both conditions cause adults to miss work, children to miss school, and are a leading cause of emergency room visits and hospital stays.

Health And Wellness  (top)

A Handy Way to Keep Your Mind Sharp

(ARA) - When most people think of woodworking they see flannel shirts and sawdust, not brain cells and neural networks. And while that may never change, more people are recognizing the craft as a way to keep the mind sharp.

Wholesome summertime snacking made simple

(ARA) - Whether by the pool, in the park, or on vacation, warm weather ushers in a season of constant activity. Keeping the family energized during the summer months is important. These easy steps will help make wholesome summertime snacking simple and interesting, no matter the time or place.

Camping Tips for Parents

(ARA) - Camping can help create lifelong memories for adults and children alike, which is one of the reasons it is the No. 1 outdoor activity in America. But before you pack up the tent and start the long drive, remember that proper preparation for a camping trip is important, especially when kids are involved.

Parents Can Take an Active Role in Helping Their Children with Asthma

(ARA) - As any parent of a young child will tell you, talking to your kids and getting them to listen is not an easy task. This challenge can be even more pronounced when you are a parent of a child with asthma, a condition that affects nearly one in 10 children in America, according to the National Center for Health Statistics.

The Good Fat You Must Eat: The Benefits of DHA

(ARA) - You have probably heard that omega-3s are good for you, particularly the omega-3 fat DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Surprisingly, despite all of the reported health benefits of DHA, the American population is not getting enough of this important nutrient. In fact, the U.S. has one of the lowest average intakes of DHA in the world, and children are particularly at risk.

Spring Clean Your Fridge and Pantry for Your Family's Health

(ARA) - You clean your windows and vacuum your rugs for spring cleaning. But have you looked inside your fridge and pantry lately? They're begging for a spring cleaning, too.

Make a delicious decision to drink more water

(ARA) - Picture this: You're out on the go on a hot summer day and you realize you're thirsty. You want something different, but you're not sure what beverage you should reach for to quench that thirst.

Potatoes Pack a Hearty Punch

(ARA) - It's no secret that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in America, where one in every three Americans is at high risk, according to the American Heart Association. Sadly, most people don't know about the risk.

Athletes with Diabetes Take Their Message on the Road

(ARA) - A group of amateur and professional athletes, many of whom have diabetes, is touring the country, hoping to inspire and motivate others with the condition to take a proactive approach to managing their health and strive for blood sugar control.

Simple Ways to Reap the Rewards of Getting Back to Nature

(ARA) - Spring is just around the corner. How will you spend those extra hours of daylight? Longer spring days signal the perfect time to get outdoors, yet according to The Nature Conservancy, nature-related activities, such as fishing, hiking, and visits to public parks, have declined between 18 percent and 25 percent since 1981.

Looking better helps cancer patients feel better

(ARA) - For Nancy Lumb, one of the hardest parts of having cancer was dealing with the appearance-related side effects of treatment.

You can help find the cure for cancer

(ARA) - After a routine blood test in 2001, Helen Anbinder, now 67, of Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., heard the dreaded words: You have cancer. The diagnosis was chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a serious blood cancer that affects more than 90,000 people in the United States.

Irregular heartbeat may be your body's warning bell

(ARA) - The economy's ups and downs are enough to make anyone's heart skip a beat. But those occasional irregular heartbeats, flutters, slow beats or moments when your heart races may actually be a warning sign of something even more serious than the recession.

Walk your way into a healthier lifestyle

(ARA) - When it comes to weight loss, activity is essential to obtaining results and supporting a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity can produce long term health benefits and is a key component in the fight against overweight and obesity. Now is the perfect time to learn how easy it is to get started.

Everyday wisdom for families of kids with diabetes

(ARA) - Parents are masters at juggling. But if you are a parent of a child with diabetes, you have to learn to juggle in a whole new way. When a child is diagnosed with a chronic disease like diabetes, everyday moments like finding a babysitter, taking a vacation or starting a school year become more of a challenge.

Nasal Rinsing Promotes Free Breathing and Nasal Health

(ARA) - In recent years, more and more American families have turned to home-based, complementary remedies to manage basic health needs. In fact, an estimated 38 percent of adults and 12 percent of children use some type of complementary and alternative medicine, according to a recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One example of this growing trend is nasal rinsing, an ancient technique that has been practiced for centuries in India and other parts of South Asia and is now gaining popularity in Western culture.

Slim down this summer

(ARA) -- Warm weather has arrived, which means you're shedding clothing and looking for ways to lose some of those extra pounds that accumulated while you hibernated away the winter months.

First New Treatment in More Than 40 Years Available for Hyperuricemia in Patients with Gout

(ARA) - An estimated 5.1 million Americans suffer from gout, and it is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men over age 40. For these sufferers, a new medicine is now available to help treat an underlying condition of gout. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ULORIC(R) (febuxostat) 40-mg and 80-mg tablets, a once-daily oral medication for the chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout. ULORIC is the first new treatment for this condition in more than 40 years, and it may provide patients and physicians with another option to meet unmet medical needs.

'Functional foods' that pack a healthy antioxidant punch

(ARA) - Antioxidants work in our bodies to prevent or slow the damage done by free radicals. Like rust on a car, oxidation can damage our cells and may contribute to age-related health problems. Antioxidants are known to provide anti-aging properties and, according to the American Dietetic Association, may even increase immune function and possibly decrease the risk of infection and cancer.

Riding escalators: A summer safety reminder

(ARA) - Summer means more time spent out and about. With activities ranging from swimming at the local pool to attending festivals, amusement parks and sporting events, people are visiting new places and entering new buildings. While outdoor safety may be top of mind for many this summer, indoor safety is equally important.

Breathe Easy in a Healthier Home

(ARA) - It's one thing to live in a well-kept home, but is it also a healthy place to live? While your home may look sparkling clean to the eye, there are a number of invisible factors that can seriously affect the health of your entire family, and even contribute to a heart attack or stroke. Chief among them is the quality of the air your family breathes while indoors.

A healthy home in 15 minutes or less

(ARA) - Home is where the heart is, but what happens if your home becomes the enemy to your health? With Americans worrying more and more about airborne pathogens there has been a big push toward preventive health care solutions.

Baby boomers should plan ahead for late-in-life care

(ARA) - Baby boomers rocked Woodstock, protested wars, rallied for civil rights and today have a solid reputation as professionals who work hard and play harder. But as record numbers of boomers continue to age, their health problems rise in direct proportion. If you're a member of this generation and haven't yet made decisions about your late-in-life health care, someone else could make them for you.

Family finds new hope in battling rare disease

(ARA) - Matt and Karen Douglas had only been married for a few years when Matt started exhibiting early symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD). His symptoms started with small, uncontrolled movements, such as his hands twitching when he didn't want them to; but the movements soon worsened and became so severe that Matt was unable to drive his car.

Thwarting summer's little creepy-crawly - the tick

(ARA) - For sheer skin-crawling summer creepiness, few experiences beat a tick bite. But worse than the unpleasant surprise of discovering you've been bitten by a tick are the health risks that come with the bite.

Surprise Job Opportunity: Demand at Day Spas Grows Despite Recession

(ARA) - With high unemployment rates and a wide-spread recession, you might think jobs in a "luxury" industry would be in short supply. Yet many day spas have actually seen an increase in demand, and need qualified massage therapists, yoga instructors and other professionals to keep pace with business.

On foot and online, step up for Parkinson's Disease

(ARA) - Every April people living with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and friends, gather in New York City's Central Park to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's disease research. At the first walk in 1994 there were 200 participants. In 2009, more than 10,000 people came from across the United States to fight to cure Parkinson's disease and to connect with others whose lives are affected by the disease.

Survey reveals high awareness of acid reflux, but shows patients aren't doing enough to manage their symptoms

(ARA) - At some point in their lives, almost everyone has heartburn -- that burning, uncomfortable feeling in the chest that often follows a big meal. For many people, heartburn only happens once in a while. But for others, it is frequent and persistent, and may actually be a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux disease. Approximately 50 million American adults experience GERD symptoms on a frequent basis.

Six steps in six days to win the battle over 'Boomeritis'

(ARA) - If you are one of the 27 million Americans who suffer with joint pain from osteoarthritis (OA), you are not alone.

Explore World Flavors with Pantry Staples

(ARA) - Just because grocery budgets are tight, doesn't mean flavor needs to suffer. Preparing dishes inspired by traditional cuisine from around the world is an easy way to add excitement to everyday meals, without breaking the bank or buying an expensive plane ticket. Try exploring the flavors of the world right in your own kitchen, by using key ingredients from your pantry for authentic flavor.

Americans turn to technology to manage chronic ailments at home

(ARA) - Technology has revolutionized how Americans manage chronic diseases, empowering us to monitor important health indicators in the comfort of our own homes. From monitoring blood pressure and blood oxygen levels to the electronic transmission of health information, technology is helping us take better charge of our own health.

New football helmet technology aids in concussion reduction

(ARA) - Every football season nearly 35,000 players are admitted to the hospital for head-related injuries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Thousands of other concussions will go undetected at the high school and college football level, often due to the desire for athletes to stay on the field, despite the warning signs.

What's that? Your hearing affects your ability to get a job?

(ARA) - You walk into the job interview. Your hair is groomed. Your smile gleams. You're wearing your best interview suit. You look fabulous, right?

Stay safe in the water this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings trips to the beach, splashing in lakes and rivers and parties by the pool. But that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if someone drowns. While it's unpleasant to think about the worst case scenario, it turns out approximately one in four U.S. adults knew someone who drowned and nearly half of adults say they've had a near-drowning experience, according to a recent American Red Cross survey.

Simple steps to reduce sodium in your summer dining

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce you slather on your grilled chicken to the frozen dinner you grab between coming home from work and running the kids to soccer practice, sodium is simply everywhere in warm-weather fare.

Keep your cat green and happy

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and we are all thinking about eco-friendly ways to refresh our homes.

Pick up that poop -- it's a public health concern

(ARA) - It's a big problem whenever people are out and about with their dogs. Some dog walkers don't want to scoop their pooch's poop. But a number of diseases caused by parasites like roundworms can be transferred from pets to people via droppings. Roundworm infections in young children can be very serious.

Summer guide to guiltless grilling

(ARA) - People around the country are getting ready to enjoy the great outdoors and fire up the grill on a warm summer day. The warmer weather and longer days are perfect for enjoying fresh flavorful foods and outdoor activities such as walking.

Make Your Home Friendly to Those With Asthma and Allergies

(ARA) - Asthma and allergies strike nearly one in four Americans, almost 60 million people, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Both conditions cause adults to miss work, children to miss school, and are a leading cause of emergency room visits and hospital stays.

Does your housecat need a behavioral housecall? Help is here

(ARA) - Cats have earned the title of America's favorite pet in part because they outnumber dogs in households across the country, but it could also be because their quirky personalities make life interesting.

Manage stress for summer sanity

(ARA) - The summer season brings about visions of relaxing vacations, backyard barbecues and kids riding bicycles. These scenes hardly invoke tension, yet summer always arrives with its share of stress.

A cool and refreshing twist for summer meals

(ARA) - Summer is the time for backyard entertaining, whether it's a simple sandwich lunch with a few friends or a patio party for the neighbors.

Living and loving with prostate cancer

(ARA) - A man is supposed to be physically healthy and emotionally strong. So where does he turn to when a disease such as prostate cancer comes along, which threatens this? An international call to action has been launched which draws attention to the impact that prostate cancer has on a man's love life, and calls for much better information to help couples through this difficult time.

Healthy Grocery Shopping on a Budget

(ARA) - American households are rediscovering the art of cooking at home. More than 35 percent of consumers are cutting back on their restaurant dining, according to a recent American Research Group study. As many of us make this shift away from our favorite eateries, you may be tempted to turn to fast food rather than your kitchen.

Hearing loss is treatable -- have your hearing checked today

(ARA) - There is no specific symptom and rarely an "Ah-ha!" moment that lets you know you're losing your hearing. Rather, hearing loss is most often gradual. It affects millions of people, is one of the most common American health problems and often goes undetected. A professional hearing screening can tell you with certainty if you're experiencing hearing loss and your audiologist can help you hear better.

Curb overeating during summer months

(ARA) - The grill is, perhaps, the main reason why many people gain weight during the summer.

Biking for Your Health -- Join the Fight to Stop Diabetes

(ARA) - Maybe you started biking to work when gas prices were hovering near $4 a gallon. Or perhaps you and your family cycle as a great way to spend time together on a Saturday afternoon.

Dance your way to comfort

(ARA) - Your high-heeled summer sandals are calling out for a night of dancing, but your feet may be begging for a break. Before you call it a night, know that dancing can help tone and elongate muscles, instill confidence and reduce stress -- but your feet can take a beating.

Nutrition vital for good eyesight, studies show

(ARA) - Caring for eyes includes paying attention to nutrition, with recent studies showing a strong correlation between good nutrition and the prevention of age-related eye diseases.

Simple safety tips to protect your home

(ARA) - Home may be where the heart is, but it also is where the hazards are.

Volunteer experience can provide hidden opportunities

(ARA) - Is there a silver lining to the hard economic times in our country? Even if you are experiencing challenging times, there is a way to lift your spirits while filling a need in your community. The message of public service is one Americans have been reminded of by President Barack Obama's administration, however finding a time and place for it can be challenging. That is unless you ask volunteers like Jeff Veum.

New Treatment Option for People Living with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

(ARA) - Nearly 19 million Americans currently live with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux disease, and suffer from painful and uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent and persistent heartburn.

Reduce Stress and Refocus Your Life

(ARA) - With everyone trying to do more with less these days, it is easy to become over-stressed and fall into a rut of performing the same monotonous tasks over and over. By introducing creativity, variety and excitement to your day, you can help avoid succumbing to everyday stress. For example, stress levels can be elevated when it comes to mealtime, as the thought of creating different meals night after night can be daunting.

Beating the summer bummer of bug bites and bee stings

(ARA) - Ahhh, summer -- July Fourth fireworks, family barbecues, ice cold watermelon, weekends at the beach ... and bug bites. Or worse -- bee, hornet and wasp stings.

Natural remedies help kids breathe easy

(ARA) - For millions of adults and children, warm weather means it's time to devote attention to nasal health. Just as you want to spend more time outside, the higher temperatures make greater attention to healthy breathing a must.

Use technology as a trainer

(ARA) - Summer is here. Say 'so long' to the stuffy gym and hello to biking, swimming and outdoor exercise. An added bonus -- no more gym fees.

Good news for expectant or would-be moms with epilepsy

(ARA) - Mary Katherine Albritton had a normal childhood despite being diagnosed with epilepsy when she was 6 years old. Her parents worked to teach her about her condition, and she grew up to be a happy adult. But in 2005 she got a surprise -- she was pregnant. As an adult with epilepsy, she wondered about the risks to her and her fetus.

How to Keep Allergies from Ruining the Fun at Playdates

(ARA) - Playdates have taken off in America, and it is no wonder. In this economy, where else can you find an inexpensive activity that is fun for both children and moms? Not only do playdates help youngsters learn socialization and cooperation skills, but they also allow moms to mingle and share advice.

How to keep summer foods fresh and safe

(ARA) - Summer is the season to be outdoors with friends and family at picnics, barbecues and many other events. But the warm weather also brings an increase in foodborne illnesses when food sits out in hot, humid conditions. Make sure your summer party is memorable for reasons other than food poisoning by taking steps to keep food fresh and safe.

Helping kids stay strong during the summer months

(ARA) - Summer meals may taste great, but many also lack some of the essential nutrients kids need, especially when it comes to building and maintaining strong bones.

Love energy drinks? How to choose a crash-free option

(ARA) - Since the first can charged onto the market in 1997, energy drinks have become a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States. But when you reach for an energy drink to give you a boost before a big game, workout, critical test or work project, what is the real cost of that rush?

Enjoy the benefits of gardening -- for you and for the planet

(ARA) - While some people see gardening as simply playing in the dirt, the physical and mental benefits are well-documented. In addition to being good for your mind and body, sustainable gardening is a great way to be kind to the planet, and to connect you to nature and the food you eat.

Personal Health Records Put Consumers in Control

(ARA) - Barb Kerecz is a busy woman. The Connecticut-based working mother of five has a lot of organizing and record keeping to do to keep household chaos under control. There are forms for everything -- immunization records, sports sign-up sheets, permission slips and other paperwork for her children's activities as well as her own. But there is a resource available that Kerecz relies on to simplify some of the most important documents -- her family's health records.

The Successful Method to Growing Young

(ARA) - As we grow older, we look forward to the changes that life brings -- retirement, grandchildren, financial security and travel. Other changes that we might not accept so readily are the aches, pains and mental slowdowns that leave us longing for the good old days of our youth.

After a Layoff: Evaluating Your Health Insurance Options

(ARA) - As the economy continues to struggle, an increasing number of people are faced with the unfortunate prospect of losing their job. The numbers are startling -- by February 2009, the U.S. unemployment rate had risen to 8.1 percent and the number of unemployed Americans had increased by 5 million over the last year.

Freshen up your fridge with healthy foods

(ARA) - Summer is filled with vacations, outdoor activities and, of course, lots of exciting meals. But just because you're busy doesn't mean you have to sacrifice delicious for nutritious.

Pools and hot tubs -- a fun way to stay fit

(ARA) - Swimming pools and hot tubs are just plain fun, but many people overlook the health benefits. Just about anyone, regardless of age or physical condition, can gain health benefits from swimming.

Four doctor-recommended tips for avoiding H1N1

(ARA) - It's not unusual to see viruses make headlines, but the recent threat of H1N1 swine flu has captured everyone's attention. On June 11, 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention raised the H1N1 pandemic status to level six, indicating an international pandemic. This change has left many people wondering what they can do to keep themselves and their families healthy.

Cardio-phobic? Fit mom of 4 shares workout secrets

(ARA) - Megan Johnson did something at 33 that she'd dreamed of since college -- she entered a bodybuilding, figure and fitness competition and placed a respectable seventh in the figure category.

Create Your Own Vending Machine to Avoid Office Snacking Pitfalls

(ARA) - You glance at the clock on your desk as your stomach begins to growl and realize you have hit the 3 p.m. slump -- that vulnerable time after lunch yet still hours from dinner. In order to satisfy your hunger, you look for a quick fix to help you finish out the day. However, stuck at the office, with deadlines looming and energy levels low, your choices may not be as sensible or healthy as you would like. In fact, nearly 75 percent of consumers questioned in a recent survey by Impulse Research consider quite a few to all of their snack choices unhealthy.

Maintain your health while traveling this summer

(ARA) - Summer has arrived, which means many people are looking forward to traveling on a relaxing vacation. Whether that includes spending a long weekend at the beach, staying close to home with family and friends or jetting off to a unique destination, it's important to remember not to take a vacation from your health.

Leading expert says healthful aging depends on current daily habits

(ARA) - When it comes to healthful aging, a preventive approach is the key to success. By implementing some simple healthy habits today, we can achieve a healthier future. "Our bodies' health -- particularly as we age -- requires that we take precautionary measures to strengthen ourselves," explains Donnica L. Moore, MD, women's health expert and advocate, and editor in chief of Women's Health for Life (DK 2009). Consider her tips for healthful aging as part of an improved wellness plan.

Big, Bountiful Salads That Satisfy

(ARA) - The days when salads were strictly a side dish to something more important -- they're so over. A big, bountiful salad deserves to be the center of attention.

Easy ways to tap olive oil's goodness

(ARA) - Pure, all-natural foods have been gaining in popularity. From choosing whole-wheat pastas over enriched pasta to brown rice over white rice, Americans are paying more attention to what they eat.

Summertime protection for mom and baby -- inside and out

(ARA) - Whether you're relaxing beachside on vacation, picnicking in the park or strolling through the neighborhood, warm weather offers many opportunities for outdoor fun. However, these activities can lead to dehydration, sunburn and fatigue if you're not careful. Barbara Dehn, women's health nurse practitioner and award-winning author, offers tips to keep mom and baby safe all summer long.

Ways to go natural, healthier this cleaning season

(ARA) - A clean home is a healthy home, right? Not necessarily. As you gear up for the cleaning season, pause to consider the impact chemical-based cleaners and other products can have on your health, your family's health and your environment.

Regular headaches? Get relief with natural remedies

(ARA) - What do millions of Americans have in common? Headaches.

How to Save Money on Senior Care

(ARA) - With America's population aging, billions of dollars are spent each year on senior care expenses. But with economic worries affecting many families, cutting costs has become more important than ever. With a little creativity, seniors and their families can save a substantial amount of money.

Growing list of 'superfruits' pack a nutritional wallop

(ARA) - Powering up your diet with superfruit-rich dishes can be easier than you think. The superfruit title is no longer reserved for berries -- nutritionists now include other antioxidant- and vitamin-rich juicy gems on the superfruit list, such as peaches, mangos and oranges.

Suffering from 'White Coat Syndrome'? Medical Assistants Ease Patients' Minds

(ARA) - Your heart races, your palms sweat and your mouth feels dry. Why does a simple trip to the doctor's office stress you so much? You may have patient anxiety, more commonly known as "white coat syndrome," and there are volumes of books and legions of Web sites devoted to the topic.

Lower your risk for diabetes and heart disease

(ARA) - During a typical day, your blood pressure goes up and down, and that's healthy. For about 65 million Americans, however, blood pressure remains high over time. Are you one of them?

Pet hospice care helps pet owners cope with death

(ARA) - When Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., discovered one of her Great Danes had cancer, she was faced with a difficult decision, but she felt fortunate that her veterinarian, Dr. Alice Villalobos, was familiar with veterinary hospice care and introduced her to the concept.

Ronnie Nose Says 'Don't Blow It' This Season

(ARA) - What does a cartoon nose with red sneakers and year-round sniffles have to do with learning about nasal allergies? Well this nose, Ronnie Nose, is the star of "Don't Blow It," a new online health game that uses humor and animation to help teach people about nasal allergies.

Temperatures Rising? Take Dinner Outdoors

(ARA) - Hot dogs, hamburgers and pork ribs aren't the healthiest eats in the bunch, especially if getting fit for the summertime is a priority. You won't have to compromise these good ol' grilling favorites at your next barbecue if lighter substitutions are made elsewhere.

Navigating the health aisle -- 4 supplements everyone should take

(ARA) - Supplements are a part of many people's daily lives. They contribute to our health, but also leave us with a lot of questions. Which supplements are best? What do they actually do? What are the most affordable options?

New mom home makeover

(ARA) - As people begin thinking about starting a family, most parents-to-be ponder how their lives will change when their new bundle of joy arrives. However there are many changes that should come much earlier. During pregnancy, there are many hidden dangers in your home. Luckily, you only have to alter your habits slightly to ensure a safe haven for you and your new arrival.

Top five tips to help manage your family's health

(ARA) - As kids head to summer camp or back to school this fall, moms everywhere will be digging through their files searching for immunization records and other health information. Some will find exactly what they need with just a few flips through an organized file cabinet. But many busy moms will be sifting through piles, shoe boxes, or drawers full of papers trying to find the most recent health records.

Control ants before they enter your home

(ARA) - These days, the economy gives you more than enough to worry about, especially as a homeowner. The last thing you want to have on your mind is pesky ants wandering through your kitchen, invading your home and your life. Unfortunately, as one of the most difficult household pests to control in groups, you sometimes don't have a choice but to worry.

Keep an eye on your vision health this summer

(ARA) - If you've ever come in from a day sailing, picnicking or lying on the beach and your eyes felt tired, sore and gritty, you likely experienced ultraviolet radiation (UVR) overexposure. It's critical to protect your eyes from the sun's damaging rays to decrease your risk of developing serious vision issues such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, the leading causes of blindness.

It's Easier Than You Think: Tips for Building Healthier Habits

(ARA) - Between juggling work, soccer practice, ballet and household chores, taking the time to build healthier habits can be a seemingly daunting task for moms. But a new survey reveals a startling misconception. Despite the fact that it's generally agreed upon that it takes just three to six weeks to form a new habit, the overwhelming majority of respondents think it takes six months or longer.

Daily physical activity helps lessen the severity of arthritis

(ARA) - More than 46 million people of all ages in the U.S. have arthritis. A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that arthritis is the nation's most common disability.

Food Allergy Safety 101

(ARA) - With the number of children with life-threatening food allergies on the rise, practicing food allergy safety is more important than ever. From closely reading labels to understanding hidden allergens and food manufacturing processes, there is a lot that can be done to keep children free of allergic reactions.

Summer pet protection from heat and fireworks

(ARA) - With summer upon us, warmer weather beckons everyone outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. When family and friends gather for backyard barbecues and outings in the park, it is natural to want to include the pets. It is wise, though, to consider the health and safety of pets before taking them out into the heat for prolonged periods.

New poll shows Americans gaining weight amidst recession

(ARA) - Belts are tightening across the country as the recession lags on. As wallets get flatter, Americans are getting fatter according to one new study. A June Gallup-Healthways poll found the number of obese Americans increased by 5.5 million people in the last year.

Lawns Do a World of Good

(ARA) - Imagine life without grass. No green lawns with kids playing outdoors, no soft cushion for your bare feet on a hot summer day, and less greenery to clean the air we breathe. Perhaps we take for granted all the great eco-benefits a well-fed, lush lawn provides for us. Yet lawns still get a bad rap because of the assumed negative effects on the environment. Let's face it; a well-cared-for lawn is better for you, your family, and the environment.

Steps for safely mounting your flat-screen TV

(ARA) - Your new 46-inch flat-screen TV may be your pride and joy, but did you know it can also be a safety risk to something else precious in your life? Like other types of heavy furniture, improperly secured flat-screen TVs can tip over, crushing, injuring and even killing small children.

The secret to a year-long backyard vacation

(ARA) - When the weather is warm, Americans flock to the water. Community pools are overflowing with children playing games, adults swim laps at the local high school pool and vacationing families excitedly splash in hotel pools and relax in nearby hot tubs. But moments at the pool are fleeting unless you know the secret to a year-long backyard vacation.

Can't sleep? Eye-opening facts about common sleep myths

(ARA) - Are you tired of feeling tired? Are sleepless nights interfering with your days? If so, you may be one of the approximately 30 million Americans who suffer from chronic insomnia. In fact, according to a national survey, 54 percent of adults said they have experienced symptoms of insomnia at least a few times a week.

Small Changes Can Mean Big Savings on Healthcare Costs

(ARA) - In a tough economy, everyone needs to cut back on unnecessary expenses and save money wherever possible. Healthcare is often one of the largest expenses a family faces, but there are ways to cut healthcare costs without shortchanging your health.

Living a Healthy Lifestyle on a Budget

(ARA) - Health and wellness is a privilege that everyone should be able to afford even in difficult economic times. With the right experience and know-how, anyone can make smart choices about healthy living while also being wallet wise.

Exercise Makes a Difference for Those Living with Chronic Illness

(ARA) - It is well known that exercise is a crucial part of overall health and wellness; but when you are living with a chronic illness, it can be difficult to find an activity you love, much less pursue competitively. Sometimes, however, all it takes is a little inspiration to get moving.

Top job for today: better sleep

(ARA) - Job No. 1 for the American worker? Better sleep.

Stressed by financial troubles? Discover 8 ways to cope

(ARA) - Rising credit card debt and job losses have millions of Americans questioning their financial security. Though the economy is slowly showing signs of recovery, the mixed daily news is still causing a lot of people to feel stressed.

Ignoring Diabetes is Risky Business

(ARA) - Are you taking risks with your life without even knowing it? You may be one of the nearly 6 million Americans who have type 2 diabetes and don't even know it.

Fresh and Healthy Tips for Delicious Dinners

(ARA) - Whether dining out or making a night of it at home, it's easy to turn everyday meals into special treats by adding healthy, versatile and affordable options. With more than 40 years of experience, Tony Seta is one of only 61 Certified Master Chefs in the United States, an accreditation awarded by the American Culinary Federation. Now, Seta is serving up five tasty tips to makeover your next meal, at home or out on the town.

Credit crunch insomnia

(ARA) - If you lay awake late at night worrying about your finances you're not alone. The credit crunch is taking its toll on sleep habits, with Americans losing valuable shut-eye every night, according to new research from The Body Shop. Nearly half of people interviewed claim they are getting a worse night's sleep than before, mostly thanks to the economic downturn.

Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse by Teens: Recognize and React

(ARA) - Every day, millions of Americans appropriately use prescription medicines to improve their health. But what happens when a teenager or child misuses these products? How can parents recognize and respond to the signs of potential prescription drug abuse?

Living wills protect you at all ages, stages of life

(ARA) - "People act as if death is contagious. It's not contagious, you know. Death is as natural as life," so said Morrie Schwartz in the 1997 best-seller by Mitch Albom, "Tuesdays with Morrie." The popular biography made death seem almost accessible given Morrie's comfort level talking about it. Yet, most people still avoid the topics of death and dying.

NASCAR Driver Carl Edwards Educates Motorists on the Importance of Being Clear to Drive

(ARA) - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving causes 100,000 crashes a year, resulting in 1,550 deaths and 40,000 injuries.

Flavorful, Budget-friendly Fun Foods

(ARA) - With the economy affecting your budget, your family is staying home for more meals. So it's more important than ever to get the most for your dollar when shopping for healthy foods at the grocery store.

Hot tips for a fun, healthy summer

(ARA) - Summer means Americans will spend more time outdoors and increase their level of activity in general. Staying healthy in the summer is just as important as staying warm and protecting your body from the elements during the fall and winter months.

'Yes You Can' Afford Plastic Surgery … Despite the Ugly Economy

(ARA) - With unemployment at an all-time high, it is becoming a necessity for Americans to put their best face forward. More of us are turning to less costly, non-invasive cosmetic "touch ups" to look competent and feel confident, whether in the workplace, or pounding the pavement.

Solutions for Keeping Your Body Healthy in the Face of Stress

(ARA) - Every year, more than 95 million Americans suffer from at least one digestive health issue. Many of these issues may be brought on by increased stress and poor diet choices.

'Scent-ual' ways to enhance your outdoor enjoyment this summer

(ARA) - Every season has its signature scents and summer is no exception. What summer scent stimulates your senses? Is it freshly mown grass? Or perhaps the faint smell of coconut that makes you think of sunscreen and summer afternoons at the beach? Or even the fragrant hint of lavender or rose from the flower garden?

Boomers back in the job market: Stay ahead by getting your hearing checked

(ARA) - Impressive resume â€- check. Perfect interview suit â€- check. Hearing aid â€- uh, how's that again?

Cut connections to find comfort in the outdoors

(ARA) - Between conference calls, cooking dinner and clipping coupons, women are escaping to the outdoors this summer for an everyday oasis from stress.

Simple safety tips to protect your home

(ARA) - Home may be where the heart is, but it also is where the hazards are.

Home Decorating  (top)

Great, grown-up ideas for 're-feathering' your empty nest

(ARA) - You're proud that he made it through four years of college. You couldn't be more thrilled that she landed her dream job, even if it's in a city 1,000 miles from home.

Spruce up your home for summer with cabinetry

(ARA) - With the dreary shadow of the economy looming, what better way to cheer your family's mood and welcome in summer than by incorporating a creative color palette into your living room, bathroom or home office? With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Take a cue from Mother Nature and bring in functional and affordable cabinetry in surprising colors.

Let Mother Nature be your guide for summer entertaining

(ARA) - As the cost of an evening out continues to grow, so does the trend of staying home to entertain family and friends. If you're a budget-conscious consumer, you don't have to spend a fortune to dazzle your guests; experts say you can get some of the best summer decorating ideas from Mother Nature.

The lighter side of nature-inspired home decor

(ARA) - If the words "nature-inspired decor" make you think of muted wall hues or overwrought floral fabrics, it's time to rethink your take on this hot design trend.

How to Make Any Room Look Bigger

(ARA) - In this economy, few people can afford to knock down walls or put an addition on their homes. However, for considerably less money, any room can appear larger and look better with one or two strategically placed sconces.

Five Kitchen Fix-ups for $500 or Less

(ARA) - After years of telling yourself you can live with the outdated hardware, the ugly orange laminate countertops and the daffodil-yellow wall paint, you've finally admitted to yourself that your love affair with your kitchen decor is over.

Open to the elements: ceramic tile breaks out of kitchens and baths

(ARA) - Outdoor living is more than just dressing up patios with a few planters and installing a pool in the backyard. Instead, people are transforming ordinary backyards into "specialty rooms" complete with kitchens, bars, TVs, lake-like pools and heating elements for cool nights.

Budget conscious Americans are dining in -- in style

(ARA) - As the economy took a downturn, there was a major shift in how Americans shopped and entertained. 'Nesting' made a comeback, and as such, dining out has been replaced with invitations to friends and family to dine in.

Tips to turn your rental space from bland to grand

(ARA) - Moving into a new rental property and wondering how much your landlord will allow you to decorate to make it feel like your own? You're not alone. According to a recent Apartments.com survey, 90 percent of renters will decorate when moving to a new apartment; with 81 percent decorating within the first three months of the move.

How to arrange your furniture to maximize space for summer

(ARA) - During warm-weather months, you have a primitive urge to clean up, clean out, and re-arrange your living space. Maybe it was easy for our forebears to clean out their caves, but for many of us it becomes a real challenge.

Techorating Tips for the New Technology in Your Home

(ARA) - In the current economic environment, many people are refocusing their priorities on family and home. Experts say more Americans are creating a home theater experience in their home instead of going out. Perhaps you're thinking about using your tax refund for a new HDTV. Or maybe you're getting a new home theater system in time to invite friends over for the summer baseball season or to enjoy this fall's football games in big-screen style.

Tips and Tricks for Adding Curb Appeal to Your Landscape

(ARA) - You only get one chance for your home to make a first impression. With a little help from Mother Nature, you can demand a second look from passersby with a show-stopping front yard.

New Decor Trend: Exotic Elements Provide a Tropical Retreat at Home

(ARA) - Dreaming of traveling to your favorite tropical destination? Are you, like many, skipping your vacation due to the current economic recession? Don't worry. Creative homeowners are bringing the idea of travel into their home by incorporating exotic decor that provides the feeling of a travel retreat.

Create a Smarter Home in a Down Economy

(ARA) - A tight economy means most American homeowners are keeping close watch on their budgets, cutting spending on frivolities and extras.

Create a home fit for humans and four-legged friends

(ARA) - Americans love their pets and there are certainly lots of them to love. Sixty three percent of U.S. households own a pet and the most popular animals -- dogs and cats -- make up 82 percent of all pets, according to the American Pet Products Association.

How to create a custom kitchen without the custom price

(ARA) - Forget about the living room. The kitchen is the social hub of a home.

How to Enrich a Home's Value With the Beauty of Stone

(ARA) - Whether used indoors or outdoors, stone adds warmth and character that no other building material can deliver. Once, only the very wealthy could afford homes graced by the sophistication of stone. But with today's manufactured stone veneer products, stone's exquisite looks are within the reach of a wide range of homeowners.

Steps for safely mounting your flat-screen TV

(ARA) - Your new 46-inch flat-screen TV may be your pride and joy, but did you know it can also be a safety risk to something else precious in your life? Like other types of heavy furniture, improperly secured flat-screen TVs can tip over, crushing, injuring and even killing small children.

Take the guesswork out of finding flooring

(ARA) - If you haven't shopped for flooring in the past few years, prepare yourself. The vast array of hard-surface options is extensive, to say the least.

Simple summer spruce-ups that won't set you back a bundle

(ARA) - Summer is already in full swing, and the guests are lining up for weekend brunches, pool parties, backyard barbecues and sophisticated dinners. If you're feeling the urge to spruce up your home for summer entertaining, you can make a big impact on a modest budget with some simple steps.

Colorful Palettes Enhance Warm Weather Trends

(ARA) - As you stretch out your arms and embrace the warmer weather, the colors of summer make themselves obvious. Colorful blooms of bright greens, yellows and purples cheer the soul.

A Great Garage Door: the Lipstick on Your Home's Facade

(ARA) - Smaller is apparently better in the minds of many homebuyers looking for the right deal in the prolonged decline of the housing market.

Smart sanding tips to make your DIY projects easier

(ARA) - Take on tiling? No problem. Paint a floor-to-ceiling mural on your child's bedroom wall? You're ready, willing and able. As a do-it-yourselfer, you not only reap the financial savings of not paying for professional labor, it can be deeply satisfying to do a job yourself.

Take Your Bath from Bland to Grand with 30-Minute Makeovers

(ARA) - Many of us dream of updating the most-used room in our homes, the bath, to create a beautiful and inviting space. But in today's tough economy, you might worry about not getting a return on your investment. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, in today's market, you may only recover about 78 percent.

Don't let stains ruin your summer

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce dripped on your favorite blouse to the cherry popsicle the kids smeared on the patio furniture cushions, summer is the season of stains. But stained clothes and upholstery probably don't make the kind of style statement you'd like as you entertain this summer.

Cutting Costs? How to Get the Best Deal on Furniture

(ARA) - You may be able to get a few more years out of your car, and you've definitely decided to put off purchasing a big-screen, high-def plasma TV. But sometimes buying furniture is not a luxury, it's a necessity.

Home Improvement  (top)

Pool Safety Measures Ensure Safe Summer Fun

(ARA) - People drive cars even though there are accidents every day. You simple take precautions and wear your seatbelt. The same goes for home pools. With proper safety measures in place, you and your family can enjoy endless hours of safe pool fun.

Planning Spring Home Improvements? Know the Score First

(ARA) - Spring is a popular time to begin home improvement projects, especially if they'll upgrade outdoor living spaces. With the economy keeping more homeowners in place, rather than moving up to bigger, grander digs, improving your home can elevate both your enjoyment and its eventual resale value.

Scale down to live large in small spaces

(ARA) - Many people are looking for smaller homes for a variety of reasons. For most, there has been a philosophical shift, considering a move to a smaller living space less of a downsizing and more of a right-sizing decision.

Eliminate your garage grime: simple summer clean-up solutions

(ARA) - Summer is here and it's time to clean the garage. The garage door will inevitably be open and you don't want to be embarrassed when the neighbors stop by, do you? Take the time to give the space a thorough cleaning and update. There are a number of simple steps you can take to clean and organize your garage so that when your neighbors do walk by, they'll be amazed at the transformation.

Homeowners warm up to tax credit for wood- and pellet-fueled heat

(ARA) - For warmth and beauty in the home, it's hard to beat the ambience of a real wood-burning stove or fireplace. Homeowners now have another reason to warm up to one - they may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500 if they purchase and install a 75-percent efficient wood- or pellet-burning (biomass) stove in 2009 or 2010. Thirty-percent of the total cost, including the appliance, installation and piping, can be claimed.

Is Your Home in Need of a Home Design Stimulus Plan?

(ARA) - These days bailouts are common, but not many Americans have considered it for their home design. Does lifeless and cluttered design leave your home in need of a makeover?

Simple safety tips to protect your home

(ARA) - Home may be where the heart is, but it also is where the hazards are.

Tips to turn your rental space from bland to grand

(ARA) - Moving into a new rental property and wondering how much your landlord will allow you to decorate to make it feel like your own? You're not alone. According to a recent Apartments.com survey, 90 percent of renters will decorate when moving to a new apartment; with 81 percent decorating within the first three months of the move.

What Shade of Green Are You?

(ARA) - If you thought green was a trend primarily embraced by Gen X and Yers, think again.

Painting -- a quick and inexpensive way to update your home

(ARA) - In today's economy, more and more homeowners are looking for ways to spruce up their home without spending a lot of money, and there is no better way to change the look and feel of a room than painting.

Maintaining Fences and Gates a Smart Move

(ARA) - Good fences really can make good neighbors and neighborhoods. When was the last time you inspected fences, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure they're still in good working condition?

The Good News: Bath Remodels Remain Tops for ROI and Enjoyment

(ARA) - National foreclosure statistics can be downright frightening - until you realize that despite record increases in foreclosure rates, the majority of American homeowners are still making their mortgage payments.

A home improvement project that pays you back 4 ways

(ARA) - Do you think that the bailout is only for the big guys? Think again.

Make Your Home Friendly to Those With Asthma and Allergies

(ARA) - Asthma and allergies strike nearly one in four Americans, almost 60 million people, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Both conditions cause adults to miss work, children to miss school, and are a leading cause of emergency room visits and hospital stays.

Five Ways to Make Your Home and Wallet Greener

(ARA) - With tightened budgets, you may be surprised to learn that going green at home is not only good for the planet but also good for your pocket book.

Greening Your Home can Earn You a Tax Credit

(ARA) - Spring is here, summer's just around the corner and it's time to break out of that winter funk. With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Americans spent $170.8 billion on home improvement projects in fourth quarter 2008, exceeding new home investment, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

How to Make Any Room Look Bigger

(ARA) - In this economy, few people can afford to knock down walls or put an addition on their homes. However, for considerably less money, any room can appear larger and look better with one or two strategically placed sconces.

The Guide to a Safe and Stylish Bathroom

(ARA) - The bathroom, often a place of relaxation and comfort, can also be a dangerous space. Whether your family members are 3 years old or 93, the risk of getting hurt in the bathroom is the same for all ages.

Solutions to help homeowners outsmart Mother Nature

(ARA) - Protecting your home means you're pitted in a constant struggle against the forces of nature. Products and improvements that help you beat the weather are a smart investment.

3 easy ways to cut energy costs this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings fun in the sun and longer daylight hours with one caveat: Hotter temperatures means running the air conditioner and increased energy bills.

A Handy Way to Keep Your Mind Sharp

(ARA) - When most people think of woodworking they see flannel shirts and sawdust, not brain cells and neural networks. And while that may never change, more people are recognizing the craft as a way to keep the mind sharp.

Open to the elements: ceramic tile breaks out of kitchens and baths

(ARA) - Outdoor living is more than just dressing up patios with a few planters and installing a pool in the backyard. Instead, people are transforming ordinary backyards into "specialty rooms" complete with kitchens, bars, TVs, lake-like pools and heating elements for cool nights.

Spending on your home can save in the long run

(ARA) - Now that warmer weather is here, people are gearing up to make some repairs and updates to their homes. From new roofs and siding to adding state-of-art kitchen and other household appliances, people have more options than ever when it comes to making purchases that can help them save money and the environment.

Home sharing? Upgrade your bath, upgrade your income

(ARA) - Rising unemployment rates and looming foreclosures are reviving the once-common "home share" model, uniting strangers and family members under a single roof -- and increasing the need for home privacy.

Five Kitchen Fix-ups for $500 or Less

(ARA) - After years of telling yourself you can live with the outdated hardware, the ugly orange laminate countertops and the daffodil-yellow wall paint, you've finally admitted to yourself that your love affair with your kitchen decor is over.

Take the guesswork out of finding flooring

(ARA) - If you haven't shopped for flooring in the past few years, prepare yourself. The vast array of hard-surface options is extensive, to say the least.

Great, grown-up ideas for 're-feathering' your empty nest

(ARA) - You're proud that he made it through four years of college. You couldn't be more thrilled that she landed her dream job, even if it's in a city 1,000 miles from home.

Breathe Easy in a Healthier Home

(ARA) - It's one thing to live in a well-kept home, but is it also a healthy place to live? While your home may look sparkling clean to the eye, there are a number of invisible factors that can seriously affect the health of your entire family, and even contribute to a heart attack or stroke. Chief among them is the quality of the air your family breathes while indoors.

New mom home makeover

(ARA) - As people begin thinking about starting a family, most parents-to-be ponder how their lives will change when their new bundle of joy arrives. However there are many changes that should come much earlier. During pregnancy, there are many hidden dangers in your home. Luckily, you only have to alter your habits slightly to ensure a safe haven for you and your new arrival.

Spruce up your home for summer with cabinetry

(ARA) - With the dreary shadow of the economy looming, what better way to cheer your family's mood and welcome in summer than by incorporating a creative color palette into your living room, bathroom or home office? With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Take a cue from Mother Nature and bring in functional and affordable cabinetry in surprising colors.

Creative Ways to Maximize Space in Your Bathroom

(ARA) - Have you ever met anyone with too much space in their bathroom? Whether you're remodeling, updating or just need to make the most of the square footage you've got, there are creative ways to maximize the space in your bathroom to keep clutter in its place and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Dressing your home with designed exteriors

(ARA) - Whether you're building a new home or remodeling for a different look, one of the first things you need to consider is your home's curb appeal. Common curb appeal updates include landscaping, walkway and patio renovations. Another remodeling practice that can lead to major curb appeal is updating the surfaces of a home's exterior walls.

Weekend home upgrades: fast, affordable fix-ups

(ARA) - With today's falling home prices, one family's well-worn dwelling can quickly become another's dream "starter" home. Interest rates are at historic lows, meaning buyers can get more house than they could a year ago for the same monthly mortgage payment, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Make household chores easier with softened water

(ARA) - If you find yourself spending too much time on household chores and not enough time with your family, there's a simple solution that can make your life easier: use softened water.

Decrease Your Home's Carbon Footprint and Save

(ARA) - Let's face it, the earth needs our help and families everywhere are looking for ways to help out. Recycling, driving less and bringing reusable bags to the grocery stores are great ways to reduce your family's carbon footprint, but did you know there are things you can do to reduce the impact your home has on the environment, not to mention your wallet?

Take Your Bath from Bland to Grand with 30-Minute Makeovers

(ARA) - Many of us dream of updating the most-used room in our homes, the bath, to create a beautiful and inviting space. But in today's tough economy, you might worry about not getting a return on your investment. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, in today's market, you may only recover about 78 percent.

Adding, upgrading a deck is great alternative to vacation spending

(ARA) - Instead of spending on pricey vacations, more Americans are turning to money-saving alternatives in their own backyards. Upgrading or adding a deck is a great way to take advantage of outdoor living spaces.

'Green' Equals Green with Ceramic Tile

(ARA) - For homeowners, good news has been hard to come by in this bleak economy. So it may come as a happy surprise to many to learn that the two most compelling trends in home remodeling and maintenance -- pinching pennies and going "green" -- are quite compatible with each other.

Closet clean out: Get your clothes in shape for summer

(ARA) - The average closet offers a not-so-roomy 5-foot by 2-foot amount of space. And for average people, that is not a whole lot of room to work with when it comes to storing all their clothes, shoes and accessories.

Create a Smarter Home in a Down Economy

(ARA) - A tight economy means most American homeowners are keeping close watch on their budgets, cutting spending on frivolities and extras.

Asphalt Shingles -- Are They The Best Investment For Your Home?

(ARA) - During this time of economic uncertainty, you may be hesitant to invest money in your home. It is important to remember, though, that your home is a valuable asset. In order to maintain your investment, home maintenance or repair projects are essential. An important area of your home to maintain is the roof, which may provide up to 50 percent of your home's exterior protection.

The home cleaning task that can save you money

(ARA) - Home cleaning season meets a recession -- what better time to take care of some often-overlooked household cleaning tasks that can save you big bucks in the long run? Some of the costliest repairs are ones that could easily be prevented with simple maintenance steps.

The technology that makes your home's walls more durable

(ARA) - With an $8,000 federal tax credit available for first-time homebuyers and tax incentives on the table for home improvement projects, you may be thinking this is the right time to build or renovate a home. While you're diving into the fun aspects of choosing paint colors and light fixtures, don't overlook the importance of what's behind the walls.

Home Inspection Helps Ensure Dream Deals Don't Turn into Nightmares

(ARA) - You found your dream deal on a foreclosed home, but will that great price tag come with a different kind of higher cost? Buying a repossessed property, short sale or a home offered at a bargain price -- because of its condition -- can mean you're assuming much higher risks.

How to save money and complete your basement renovation fast

(ARA) - With all the uncertainty surrounding today's economy, more people are saving money by enjoying quality time at home. Some are using this time to invest in room or whole-house makeovers to enhance the value of their homes.

Stimulus helps homeowners save money

(ARA) - "What's in it for me?" Homeowners will love the answer to that question as they learn more about the new federal economic stimulus bill. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, generally known as the stimulus package, offers special tax credit incentives to homeowners to encourage energy efficiency -- the best part is it's easy.

Driveway improvements speed home offers, lower costs

(ARA) - With a "For Sale" sign in your front yard, you want potential buyers to take a good, long look at your property. And even if you're not planning a move, you want to be sure you protect and maintain your home to keep future repairs at a minimum.

Smart sanding tips to make your DIY projects easier

(ARA) - Take on tiling? No problem. Paint a floor-to-ceiling mural on your child's bedroom wall? You're ready, willing and able. As a do-it-yourselfer, you not only reap the financial savings of not paying for professional labor, it can be deeply satisfying to do a job yourself.

Simple safety tips to protect your home

(ARA) - Home may be where the heart is, but it also is where the hazards are.

A Great Garage Door: the Lipstick on Your Home's Facade

(ARA) - Smaller is apparently better in the minds of many homebuyers looking for the right deal in the prolonged decline of the housing market.

It's a great time to be a 'window shopper'

(ARA) - Many doors are closing due to the economy, but certain windows are becoming easier to open. The 2009/2010 tax credit for energy efficient replacement windows, one of 10 provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is helping homeowners to remodel America one house at a time.

Control ants before they enter your home

(ARA) - These days, the economy gives you more than enough to worry about, especially as a homeowner. The last thing you want to have on your mind is pesky ants wandering through your kitchen, invading your home and your life. Unfortunately, as one of the most difficult household pests to control in groups, you sometimes don't have a choice but to worry.

New Deck Trends Help Define Your Outdoor Living Area

(ARA) - Just as your home's decor is a statement of your taste and personality, so is your backyard. As the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Boomers join the green movement with natural light

(ARA) - Older Americans who add more natural light to their living quarters when they move or remodel benefit from improved vision and mood in a safer environment. And daylighting, which utilizes no energy and carries no ongoing costs, is another benefit to the pocketbook of boomers on fixed incomes.

More tax breaks for homeowners in 2009 and beyond

(ARA) - Homeownership and green improvements will be more affordable for more Americans in 2009, thanks to several provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The changes will put more money in taxpayers' pockets and allow homeowners to save thousands of dollars over the next several years.

Ceiling fans can save you energy all year long

(ARA) - Gas and energy prices are rising again, and that means Americans must tighten their belts even further. You don't need to dread hot summer temps and high air conditioning bills when you have ceiling fans in your home.

Solar Water Heating Can Save Money and Pay Off Big

(ARA) - Green-minded homeowners can continue to turn to the sky for help in coping with rising energy costs for years to come thanks to an extension of the solar tax credit program by Congress.

Room air conditioners: a hot way to keep cool and cut energy costs

(ARA) - The hot, humid weather of summer is about to meet Americans' continuing desire to cut costs this cooling season. Room air conditioners are a practical way to cool down when temperatures heat up, especially if you want to save money by only cooling the rooms you use the most.

Four Ways to Add 'Wow!' to Your Kitchen

(ARA) - As you start to build your new home, or remodel an older house into the comfortable and elegant retreat you've been dreaming about, one of the main rooms to consider will be the look, feel and use of your kitchen.

DIY tips for creating a beautiful patio and yard in less time

(ARA) - Summer is the season for DIYers to complete outdoor home improvement projects, but even the most enthusiastic homeowner wants to make the best use of time so he or she can still enjoy the beautiful summer days.

Strapped for Cash? HVAC Solutions Keep Costs Low and Comfort High

(ARA) - You may find the economic climate less than balmy right now, but that doesn't mean the climate inside your home can't be comfortable.

Home to stay

(ARA) - The aging population in the country is growing by the minute. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 the number of individuals ages 65 and up is expected to be twice as large as in 2000 -- growing to 71.5 million -- and representing nearly 20 percent of the population.

Is your garage hurricane ready?

(ARA) - Weather forecasters are predicting that the 2009 hurricane season will be a "relatively normal" one for U.S. coastal areas, with a good chance that six to eight hurricanes will form in the Atlantic basin. Although hurricane season starts in June, activity usually peaks in September.

Simple Steps to Stylish and Affordable Outdoor Spaces

(ARA) - When the sun is shining and the summer breezes are blowing, it's difficult to resist the call to relax outdoors. But if you have a blank canvas of grass or a cement slab, it doesn't exactly call to mind visions of barbecues and family gatherings. Don't stare longingly out the windows this summer when you can expand your living space to include the outdoors in just a few simple steps.

Control summer pests in an environmentally-friendly way

(ARA) - Spring is here, and we can't wait to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, we're not the only ones. Because when nature springs back to life, so do cockroaches, grubs, and a myriad of ants including fire ants and carpenter ants. If you're like most homeowners, you don't want to share your house and yard with damaging insects, but you may also worry about using pest control products around your house.

American Hardwoods: Nature's 'Greenest' Choice

(ARA) - When it comes to "greening" a new or existing home, many consumers simply do not have the facts about American hardwood as an environmentally-friendly building material choice. Wood misconceptions abound.

How to Make a Big Splash with Your Small Yard

(ARA) - A baby boomer couple downsizing, a working professional's downtown city condo, and a young family's starter home in a metro suburb -- the trend of people moving to smaller homes with smaller yards continues to grow. If you are one of them, how do you make the most out of your small outdoor green space? With the right tools and strategies, you'll find the possibilities are endless.

How to create a custom kitchen without the custom price

(ARA) - Forget about the living room. The kitchen is the social hub of a home.

The secret to a year-long backyard vacation

(ARA) - When the weather is warm, Americans flock to the water. Community pools are overflowing with children playing games, adults swim laps at the local high school pool and vacationing families excitedly splash in hotel pools and relax in nearby hot tubs. But moments at the pool are fleeting unless you know the secret to a year-long backyard vacation.

A bright idea for green remodeling: venting skylights

(ARA) - As green building and remodeling practices become standard procedure, the use of more natural light and passive ventilation is here to stay.

Adding deck lights a simple way to enhance outdoor living

(ARA) - As summer rolls in and guests show up, the benefit of having outdoor living space for relaxing and entertaining becomes readily apparent. Homeowners love having extra space where they can hang out, and outdoor environments are a huge plus for those trying to sell or rent out a home.

Get more for your money when purchasing replacement windows

(ARA) - Energy efficiency has gained national importance and window replacement is recognized as one pathway to aid in energy independence and the reduction of harmful global emissions.

Open the door to more energy savings and summer fun

(ARA) - With home entertaining on the rise and backyard barbecue season in full swing, make sure your home is ready for hot fun and high-traffic summer activities. And keep in mind the potential energy savings you can earn with renovations.

Choose right, use right: Tips for safe and effective use of pesticides and fertilizers

(ARA) - It's that time of the year again when millions of do-it-yourself homeowners face the challenges of keeping problem insects and weeds away from home gardens and yards -- while staying within the family budget.

Colorful Palettes Enhance Warm Weather Trends

(ARA) - As you stretch out your arms and embrace the warmer weather, the colors of summer make themselves obvious. Colorful blooms of bright greens, yellows and purples cheer the soul.

What You Should Know When Shopping for a Water Heater

(ARA) - How's your relationship with your household appliances? You open your refrigerator every day and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer several times each week.

Now is the time for a deck safety check

(ARA) - Your deck is the perfect place to enjoy the warm weather with friends and loved ones. But an unsafe deck could possibly collapse, causing serious injuries to you and your guests.

Go green as you clean

(ARA) - Is your cleaning really as clean as you think it is? Warm summer weather brings with it open doors and windows, grass, sand and an endless array of dirt and germs. In the battle to keep your living space clean and healthy, are you using conventional cleaning products with caustic and toxic ingredients? They can be just as harmful as the grime and bacteria they're meant to eliminate.

Hot Topics  (top)

Everyday wisdom for families of kids with diabetes

(ARA) - Parents are masters at juggling. But if you are a parent of a child with diabetes, you have to learn to juggle in a whole new way. When a child is diagnosed with a chronic disease like diabetes, everyday moments like finding a babysitter, taking a vacation or starting a school year become more of a challenge.

Exercise Makes a Difference for Those Living with Chronic Illness

(ARA) - It is well known that exercise is a crucial part of overall health and wellness; but when you are living with a chronic illness, it can be difficult to find an activity you love, much less pursue competitively. Sometimes, however, all it takes is a little inspiration to get moving.

New grads, career-changers find security, flexibility and meaning in massage industry

(ARA) - The recession is turning out to be a great equalizer, rearranging our priorities so that recent college graduates and seasoned professionals now share a single top concern -- job security. Many of them will likely find what they're looking for in the health care industry, where overall employment is expected to rise 21 percent by 2016.

Eliminate stress with these smart vacation planning tips

(ARA) - It's not officially summer until you've started planning your season getaway. Whether you're packing up for a weekend, a week or a month, going solo or with the family, a pre-vacation plan of action is a necessity to stay organized and stress free.

Organize Debt Consolidation Quickly and Easily

(ARA) - Until recently, Ken Goins of Woodland Hills, Calif. was like most Americans -- he carried a balance on several credit cards. The weight of the balance became heavier and heavier, and Goins just wanted to end his debt.

Selling your home? Online tools level the playing field

(ARA) - Modern home selling has gone way beyond the "for sale" sign on the front lawn. Nearly 90 percent of home buyers look online when shopping for a home, according to the National Association of Realtors. So your home-selling efforts need to cruise the Information Superhighway at top speed.

On foot and online, step up for Parkinson's Disease

(ARA) - Every April people living with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and friends, gather in New York City's Central Park to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's disease research. At the first walk in 1994 there were 200 participants. In 2009, more than 10,000 people came from across the United States to fight to cure Parkinson's disease and to connect with others whose lives are affected by the disease.

Ordinary Americans make a difference in the lives of former foster children

(ARA) - Making the transition into college is a challenge even under the best of circumstances. Imagine how much more difficult it must be when a young person has no support system whatsoever -- no parents to help pave the way, no "Bank of Mom and Dad" to fall back on, no loved one to simply listen at the end of a difficult day.

How to Hit a Financial Planning Homerun

(ARA) - The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd as you round the bases. While hitting a homerun in the big leagues is only the stuff of dreams for most of us, baseball can serve as a wonderful analogy for our quest for financial security.

Dress for success and comfort at work

(ARA) - Wondering what to wear at the office as the temperature climbs this summer? Fashion experts at The Art Institutes have some words to live by when dressing for success at your workplace.

Tips to save money

(ARA) - Everyone is looking for ways to save money these days, and there are hundreds of tips for cutting costs. But make sure you are prepared to do some research and make comparisons between companies and products, otherwise you may end up spending more money than you save.

Control ants before they enter your home

(ARA) - These days, the economy gives you more than enough to worry about, especially as a homeowner. The last thing you want to have on your mind is pesky ants wandering through your kitchen, invading your home and your life. Unfortunately, as one of the most difficult household pests to control in groups, you sometimes don't have a choice but to worry.

Inside tips for when you need a lawyer

(ARA) - If you are waiting for your landlord to fix a leaky roof -- you may need a lawyer.

Good news for expectant or would-be moms with epilepsy

(ARA) - Mary Katherine Albritton had a normal childhood despite being diagnosed with epilepsy when she was 6 years old. Her parents worked to teach her about her condition, and she grew up to be a happy adult. But in 2005 she got a surprise -- she was pregnant. As an adult with epilepsy, she wondered about the risks to her and her fetus.

How you can recognize a woman who makes a difference in your community

(ARA) - Historically women are the shapers of home and family. But many women today extend their nurturing role to the entire community through activism and charity work that has a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

Cardio-phobic? Fit mom of 4 shares workout secrets

(ARA) - Megan Johnson did something at 33 that she'd dreamed of since college -- she entered a bodybuilding, figure and fitness competition and placed a respectable seventh in the figure category.

Is it time to take the money out from under the mattress?

(ARA) -- There it sits in the mail pile or in your e-mail in box, waiting to be opened -- your dreaded 401(k) or bank statement. While the specter of the sad statement doesn't necessarily haunt all of us, you would have to search long and hard to find someone who has not been directly affected in some way by the economic chaos of late.

How to Keep Allergies from Ruining the Fun at Playdates

(ARA) - Playdates have taken off in America, and it is no wonder. In this economy, where else can you find an inexpensive activity that is fun for both children and moms? Not only do playdates help youngsters learn socialization and cooperation skills, but they also allow moms to mingle and share advice.

Family finds new hope in battling rare disease

(ARA) - Matt and Karen Douglas had only been married for a few years when Matt started exhibiting early symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD). His symptoms started with small, uncontrolled movements, such as his hands twitching when he didn't want them to; but the movements soon worsened and became so severe that Matt was unable to drive his car.

Out of Work? Tips for 'Chance Entrepreneurs' Starting their own Business

(ARA) - Unemployment figures for the first quarter of 2009 have created a panic in the workforce. The U.S. Labor Department said the national unemployment rate rose to 8.5 percent in March, the highest level in 25 years.

Easy ways to protect your landscape from deer

(ARA) - When Bambi invites all his friends to dinner, make sure it's not in your yard. If you don't protect your landscaping, Bambi and his friends will be crunching tulips like candy and popping peas right off the vine. You can bet they'll be stealing your prize tomatoes this summer and munching your mums in the fall.

Ignoring Diabetes is Risky Business

(ARA) - Are you taking risks with your life without even knowing it? You may be one of the nearly 6 million Americans who have type 2 diabetes and don't even know it.

What You Should Know When Shopping for a Water Heater

(ARA) - How's your relationship with your household appliances? You open your refrigerator every day and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer several times each week.

Make a delicious decision to drink more water

(ARA) - Picture this: You're out on the go on a hot summer day and you realize you're thirsty. You want something different, but you're not sure what beverage you should reach for to quench that thirst.

Americans turn to technology to manage chronic ailments at home

(ARA) - Technology has revolutionized how Americans manage chronic diseases, empowering us to monitor important health indicators in the comfort of our own homes. From monitoring blood pressure and blood oxygen levels to the electronic transmission of health information, technology is helping us take better charge of our own health.

It's still tax season for nonprofits

(ARA) - Tax season may be over for most individuals and businesses, but the story is different for nonprofits. In particular, it's very important for small nonprofits to understand that while they may not have had to file anything with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the past, they now may have a new form to file, called the e-Postcard (or Form 990-N).

Spending on your home can save in the long run

(ARA) - Now that warmer weather is here, people are gearing up to make some repairs and updates to their homes. From new roofs and siding to adding state-of-art kitchen and other household appliances, people have more options than ever when it comes to making purchases that can help them save money and the environment.

Ways to go natural, healthier this cleaning season

(ARA) - A clean home is a healthy home, right? Not necessarily. As you gear up for the cleaning season, pause to consider the impact chemical-based cleaners and other products can have on your health, your family's health and your environment.

Five Recession Solutions for Your 401(k)

(ARA) - Do you cringe every time you open your 401(k) statement? If you're feeling the temptation of pulling your money, you're not alone. But before you do so, you need to think strategically.

Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse by Teens: Recognize and React

(ARA) - Every day, millions of Americans appropriately use prescription medicines to improve their health. But what happens when a teenager or child misuses these products? How can parents recognize and respond to the signs of potential prescription drug abuse?

Share the workload, then the fun

(ARA) - Now that summer is here and kids are out of school, families can make more time for summer fun by making quick work of pesky household chores. When all hands are on deck -- even the little ones -- the chores are completed faster, leaving more time for fun in the summer sun.

The American dream still inspires, even as it evolves, study reveals

(ARA) - Shattered nest eggs, daunting unemployment rates and drastically depreciated home values -- the current financial crisis has no more power to kill the American dream, it seems, than did the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl or the two World Wars.

Protecting your rebuilt nest egg: ID theft basics for boomers

(ARA) - When the shock of shattered nest eggs eased, many Americans got down to the serious work of rebuilding their financial futures. Already, tentative predictions of improvement are replacing dire warnings of doom in headlines across the country.

Spring Home Deals are Healthy for Those Who Know the Score

(ARA) - Motivated sellers, builders offering deep discounts and incentives, historically low mortgage rates, plenty of inventory and fierce competition for qualified borrowers -it's actually a great time to be buying a house. If your credit score is good, you're in an even better position to negotiate the loan on the home of your dreams this spring.

Lower your risk for diabetes and heart disease

(ARA) - During a typical day, your blood pressure goes up and down, and that's healthy. For about 65 million Americans, however, blood pressure remains high over time. Are you one of them?

Men vs. women -- understanding the bathroom gender divide

(ARA) - Ever wonder what your significant other is doing behind the shower curtain? Curious as to why women consistently take longer showers than men? Whether the toilet seat is left up or down or the toothpaste cap is left on or off -- the differences between men and women's bathroom habits are undeniable.

New football helmet technology aids in concussion reduction

(ARA) - Every football season nearly 35,000 players are admitted to the hospital for head-related injuries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Thousands of other concussions will go undetected at the high school and college football level, often due to the desire for athletes to stay on the field, despite the warning signs.

The logic behind online auto insurance quotes

(ARA) - We all want affordable auto insurance, but sometimes it seems that the setting of auto insurance premiums are arbitrary and capricious. But there really is more method than madness to setting premiums and online auto insurance quotes. So, why does auto insurance cost what it costs?

Easy solutions to clean up your digital life

(ARA) - Warm weather signals the time to get clutter under control. A time traditionally spent cleaning out nooks and crannies in the home, this season the trend is to organize your digital world, which as most of us know, can be a huge mess.

Online coupons make it easy to save

(ARA) - With warm weather already here, adults and children alike flock to the outdoors for sports, recreation and home improvement.

Credit crunch insomnia

(ARA) - If you lay awake late at night worrying about your finances you're not alone. The credit crunch is taking its toll on sleep habits, with Americans losing valuable shut-eye every night, according to new research from The Body Shop. Nearly half of people interviewed claim they are getting a worse night's sleep than before, mostly thanks to the economic downturn.

Start Prepping Now to Avoid Audit, Cut Taxes and Relieve Stress in 2010

(ARA) - You may feel relieved that tax season is over for another year. But 2010 tax time will arrive before you know it, and a few pro-active steps throughout the rest of 2009 will help you avoid an audit, minimize your tax burden and reduce your stress level next April 15.

New Credit Score Formula Could Increase Your Score

(ARA) - The credit score formula lenders use to determine your "credit worthiness" may soon change. The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to get a better deal on a mortgage, auto loan and even a cell phone contract. But with the new changes, your credit score could change significantly.

Recession impacting U.S. fire departments, survey says

(ARA) - How often do we take for granted that help in an emergency is just a 911-call away? Yet the recession is taking a toll on the group which is often the first responder in any emergency -- firefighters. What's more, nearly half of all firefighters agree that if the downturn continues for another year, it may affect their ability to serve their communities.

You can help find the cure for cancer

(ARA) - After a routine blood test in 2001, Helen Anbinder, now 67, of Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., heard the dreaded words: You have cancer. The diagnosis was chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a serious blood cancer that affects more than 90,000 people in the United States.

Tips to stay financially afloat

(ARA) - With job loss at its highest rate in more than two decades and financial systems crumbling, Americans are dealing with the aftermath of a perfect storm of economic events. According to a new survey, one in four people (25 percent) say they're worried about losing their jobs in 2009, and there is no better time for consumers to batten down their financial hatches to prepare for that possibility.

Pet hospice care helps pet owners cope with death

(ARA) - When Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., discovered one of her Great Danes had cancer, she was faced with a difficult decision, but she felt fortunate that her veterinarian, Dr. Alice Villalobos, was familiar with veterinary hospice care and introduced her to the concept.

Hope campaign stimulates positive messages

(ARA) - According to the American Psychological Association, eight out of 10 people polled in October said that the economy is a significant cause of stress, up from 66 percent polled six months earlier. The main causes for stress and worry for both men and women were money, the economy, job stability, housing costs and health problems affecting the family.

Slim down this summer

(ARA) -- Warm weather has arrived, which means you're shedding clothing and looking for ways to lose some of those extra pounds that accumulated while you hibernated away the winter months.

Don't Let Boating 'Under the Influence' Spoil Fun on the Water

(ARA) - Heading out to enjoy a day of fun on the water this summer? If it involves boating, jet skiing or water skiing, you may want to think twice about the beverages you bring. More than half of all boating accidents involve alcohol or drugs. And with more than 17 million boats crowding our shorelines and inland lakes and rivers, our nation's waterways are second only to highways as the scene of accidental deaths in our country.

Tax Tips for Taxpayers Who Filed an Extension

(ARA) - If you filed an extension and still need to file your 2008 tax return, don't panic. The key to getting it done quickly and efficiently is to have a game plan and know what to look for before starting. Use these tips to make doing your taxes easier.

Top 5 Ways to Save Water at Home

(ARA) - Less than 3 percent of the Earth's water is fresh water and much of that is inaccessible to people. Additionally, at least 36 states anticipate experiencing water shortages by 2013, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. So, if you could easily save water and save money at the same time, why wouldn't you?

Wallet-friendly wardrobe tips

(ARA) - With the return of summer comes the return of brightly colored clothing and the classic little white t-shirt. Grass stains, dirt or barbecue spills often become part of these seasonal ensembles. To keep summertime wardrobe staples looking sunny all season, stop and listen to your clothes.

Top job for today: better sleep

(ARA) - Job No. 1 for the American worker? Better sleep.

More students taking advantage of online education

(ARA) - As computers evolved from occupying a huge air-conditioned room to being so small they fit into the palm of your hand, how you use them has too.

Late Filers Beware: Avoid These Common Mistakes when Filing Your 2008 Return

(ARA) - The bad news? With so many changes made for the 2008 tax season, some taxpayers are bound to make a mistake on returns. The good news? You can save time and money now that you have filed an extension by learning from the mistakes of others who have already filed.

Older Adult Volunteers Bring New Expertise and New Life to Nonprofits

(ARA) - When Margaret Ross retired from a career in nursing, she had no idea that her new life as a volunteer would lead her right back into healthcare.

American Hardwoods: Nature's 'Greenest' Choice

(ARA) - When it comes to "greening" a new or existing home, many consumers simply do not have the facts about American hardwood as an environmentally-friendly building material choice. Wood misconceptions abound.

Old car or truck? Tricks to boost its performance

(ARA) - Whether it's because of the economy or simply because today's vehicles are more durable, an increasing number of people are driving used cars and trucks longer. A recent study from RL Polk found that the average age of both cars and light trucks is at an all-time record high at 9.4 and 7.5 years, respectively.

Simple solutions to save money at home this summer

(ARA) - As summer rolls around, you may find yourself getting that familiar anxious feeling in the pit of your stomach. No, not just because it is time to slip into a swimsuit (that's an entirely different issue to contend with). You're probably getting antsy thinking about all the money you are going to spend at home while the kids are on summer vacation.

How to Help Kids 'Go Green'

(ARA) - Kids are increasingly aware of the issues impacting their environment, and are even more engaged and excited about making their world a greener place. Parents can involve their children in "going green" with a few simple steps, and show them how they, too, can make a big contribution to Mother Earth.

How to give your old car a new look

(ARA) - You don't have to buy a new car or truck to get a new look. Through the use of special products and accessories, drivers can transform the appearance of their vehicles quickly, easily and affordably.

Love energy drinks? How to choose a crash-free option

(ARA) - Since the first can charged onto the market in 1997, energy drinks have become a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States. But when you reach for an energy drink to give you a boost before a big game, workout, critical test or work project, what is the real cost of that rush?

Kitchen Bed Bath  (top)

The Good News: Bath Remodels Remain Tops for ROI and Enjoyment

(ARA) - National foreclosure statistics can be downright frightening - until you realize that despite record increases in foreclosure rates, the majority of American homeowners are still making their mortgage payments.

Men vs. women -- understanding the bathroom gender divide

(ARA) - Ever wonder what your significant other is doing behind the shower curtain? Curious as to why women consistently take longer showers than men? Whether the toilet seat is left up or down or the toothpaste cap is left on or off -- the differences between men and women's bathroom habits are undeniable.

Scale down to live large in small spaces

(ARA) - Many people are looking for smaller homes for a variety of reasons. For most, there has been a philosophical shift, considering a move to a smaller living space less of a downsizing and more of a right-sizing decision.

Kitchen Remodel Tips from the Pros

(ARA) - Now is a great time to invest in your home, and renovating your kitchen is usually the most cost-effective upgrade you can make. As the room where families spend the most time together, the kitchen can be enjoyed on a daily basis and much of the renovation cost can be recouped when you do decide to sell.

Budget conscious Americans are dining in -- in style

(ARA) - As the economy took a downturn, there was a major shift in how Americans shopped and entertained. 'Nesting' made a comeback, and as such, dining out has been replaced with invitations to friends and family to dine in.

Tips to turn your rental space from bland to grand

(ARA) - Moving into a new rental property and wondering how much your landlord will allow you to decorate to make it feel like your own? You're not alone. According to a recent Apartments.com survey, 90 percent of renters will decorate when moving to a new apartment; with 81 percent decorating within the first three months of the move.

New Decor Trend: Exotic Elements Provide a Tropical Retreat at Home

(ARA) - Dreaming of traveling to your favorite tropical destination? Are you, like many, skipping your vacation due to the current economic recession? Don't worry. Creative homeowners are bringing the idea of travel into their home by incorporating exotic decor that provides the feeling of a travel retreat.

Spruce up your home for summer with cabinetry

(ARA) - With the dreary shadow of the economy looming, what better way to cheer your family's mood and welcome in summer than by incorporating a creative color palette into your living room, bathroom or home office? With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Take a cue from Mother Nature and bring in functional and affordable cabinetry in surprising colors.

Bridal Registry Tips and Items You'll Really Use

(ARA) - While the fondue pot and ice cream maker seem like must-haves when you're adding items to your bridal registry, it's important to ask yourself, "Will I really use these items on a regular basis?" You may want to reconsider your selections. And, although making a wedding gift wish list can be daunting, the following tips can keep the happy couple celebrating wedded bliss for years to come.

Create a home fit for humans and four-legged friends

(ARA) - Americans love their pets and there are certainly lots of them to love. Sixty three percent of U.S. households own a pet and the most popular animals -- dogs and cats -- make up 82 percent of all pets, according to the American Pet Products Association.

The Guide to a Safe and Stylish Bathroom

(ARA) - The bathroom, often a place of relaxation and comfort, can also be a dangerous space. Whether your family members are 3 years old or 93, the risk of getting hurt in the bathroom is the same for all ages.

Stock Cabinetry -- an Affordable Kitchen Upgrade

(ARA) - Families all across the country are tightening their purse strings and looking for ways to cut back on expenses. As a result, many are choosing to stay home and cook instead of going out to eat. This growing trend has sparked a demand for kitchens with the capability to handle high traffic and store a wide array of cooking essentials.

What Shade of Green Are You?

(ARA) - If you thought green was a trend primarily embraced by Gen X and Yers, think again.

Home sharing? Upgrade your bath, upgrade your income

(ARA) - Rising unemployment rates and looming foreclosures are reviving the once-common "home share" model, uniting strangers and family members under a single roof -- and increasing the need for home privacy.

Make life easier with little effort

(ARA) - With busy schedules and lives constantly on the go, it's easy to be forgetful. But in today's connected world, with a little help from technology, it is possible to accomplish what you need to with barely a second thought.

Creative Ways to Maximize Space in Your Bathroom

(ARA) - Have you ever met anyone with too much space in their bathroom? Whether you're remodeling, updating or just need to make the most of the square footage you've got, there are creative ways to maximize the space in your bathroom to keep clutter in its place and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Four Ways to Add 'Wow!' to Your Kitchen

(ARA) - As you start to build your new home, or remodel an older house into the comfortable and elegant retreat you've been dreaming about, one of the main rooms to consider will be the look, feel and use of your kitchen.

Lawn And Garden  (top)

How to Make a Big Splash with Your Small Yard

(ARA) - A baby boomer couple downsizing, a working professional's downtown city condo, and a young family's starter home in a metro suburb -- the trend of people moving to smaller homes with smaller yards continues to grow. If you are one of them, how do you make the most out of your small outdoor green space? With the right tools and strategies, you'll find the possibilities are endless.

Relax: Choose the Right Hot Tub in 10 Easy Steps

(ARA) - Stress negatively impacts the mind and body in profound ways. In fact, some stress experts estimate that up to 90 percent of doctor visits for primary care can be linked in some way to a stress-induced ailment.

Now is the time for a deck safety check

(ARA) - Your deck is the perfect place to enjoy the warm weather with friends and loved ones. But an unsafe deck could possibly collapse, causing serious injuries to you and your guests.

Lawn Mowing: Get Reel, Go Gas-free

(ARA) - Warm weather arrives with the melodic chipping of songbirds preparing their nests. What? Can't hear them? The steady rumble of lawn mowers not only drowns out nature's melodies, it disturbs wildlife and sleeping neighbors, and is an unhealthy source of summertime air pollution.

Three Solutions for Stubborn Outdoor Spaces

(ARA) - Even seasoned gardeners have at least one difficult area in the landscape where no plants survive. Whether it is around a trash can storage area or in a shallow space surrounding a tree, understanding the appropriate plant material for bare, problematic areas can bring new life to the lawn and garden.

Tips to prevent fire ants

(ARA) - Fire ants are very serious and territorial insects. They are not only a nuisance to your property; they can harm you, your children and your pets. Being able to identify fire ants, where they live, treatments for prevention, working with your neighbors for season-long control, and what to do if you are stung are all very important elements to educate yourself and family on in order to be fire ant-free.

Maintaining Fences and Gates a Smart Move

(ARA) - Good fences really can make good neighbors and neighborhoods. When was the last time you inspected fences, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure they're still in good working condition?

New Deck Trends Help Define Your Outdoor Living Area

(ARA) - Just as your home's decor is a statement of your taste and personality, so is your backyard. As the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Easy, green and inexpensive container gardens brighten your day

(ARA) - Now more than ever we are all looking for ways to find affordable, earth-friendly hobbies and leisure activities to bring us moments of pleasure in a stressful world. Investing in a planter or two (or more!) this summer can provide you with colorful blooms or delicious vegetables to brighten each day throughout the growing season.

Save money without sparing romance

(ARA) - Champagne, roses and chocolate-covered strawberries spell romance, but all can fade fast. A more innovative and enduring (not to mention budget-conscious) method for adding romance is to bring it outdoors. In fact, your own backyard can be a much more cost-effective and intimate date night.

Great gardens start with a plan

(ARA) - Setting out to create a garden that is uniquely one's own is an exciting yet overwhelming process for many homeowners. The goal should be to build a space that is beautiful, comfortable and convenient for personal use and enjoyment. Having a plan is important to aid any project, whether homeowners prefer large garden beds and borders or smaller container gardens.

Have a Great Lawn That's Good to the Earth

(ARA) - Caring for the environment means caring for a full, green lawn. Properly maintaining your lawn will produce strong grass and can help protect and conserve water resources at the same time.

Flavorful Landscapes -- A Growing Trend

(ARA) - Nothing beats the flavor of a fresh-from-the-garden tomato; warmed by the sun, plucked right from the plant and eaten in the garden.

Expert tips for creating a backyard habitat for colorful summer birds

(ARA) - Whether city or country, bird watching is fun and you can create an environment for it in your own backyard in less time than you think. Summer is a great time to get started because the most colorful birds with beautiful songs are around to enhance your outdoor environment.

Is Your Home in Need of a Home Design Stimulus Plan?

(ARA) - These days bailouts are common, but not many Americans have considered it for their home design. Does lifeless and cluttered design leave your home in need of a makeover?

Lawns Do a World of Good

(ARA) - Imagine life without grass. No green lawns with kids playing outdoors, no soft cushion for your bare feet on a hot summer day, and less greenery to clean the air we breathe. Perhaps we take for granted all the great eco-benefits a well-fed, lush lawn provides for us. Yet lawns still get a bad rap because of the assumed negative effects on the environment. Let's face it; a well-cared-for lawn is better for you, your family, and the environment.

Tips and Tricks for Adding Curb Appeal to Your Landscape

(ARA) - You only get one chance for your home to make a first impression. With a little help from Mother Nature, you can demand a second look from passersby with a show-stopping front yard.

Backyard Buzz: How to Attract Hummingbirds

(ARA) - If the birding world had a rock star, it would be the hummingbird. Swift, tiny, secretive and simply amazing to watch, "hummers" are so hard to spot that catching a glimpse of one can be a summer experience you'll long remember. But you don't have to be an avid birder to be thrilled by the sight of a hummingbird.

Gardens with Color Combos and Foliage Factor

(ARA) - Lawns and gardens that are eye-catching have harmonious colorful plants in bloom and dramatic foliage varieties patterned in a way that appeals to the senses.

Groceries from the Backyard: A Harvest of Savings

(ARA) - The economy is tanking, grocery bills are climbing and food safety scares are on the rise. For the 43 million Americans planning a vegetable garden this year, growing your own is a matter of dollars and sense.

Lengthen the life of your cut flowers

(ARA) - In the mood to bring the bounty of the outdoors inside? The amazing colors, fragrances and textures of your flower garden can easily be brought indoors, arranged and appreciated throughout the summer and fall months.

Simple Steps to Stylish and Affordable Outdoor Spaces

(ARA) - When the sun is shining and the summer breezes are blowing, it's difficult to resist the call to relax outdoors. But if you have a blank canvas of grass or a cement slab, it doesn't exactly call to mind visions of barbecues and family gatherings. Don't stare longingly out the windows this summer when you can expand your living space to include the outdoors in just a few simple steps.

Choose right, use right: Tips for safe and effective use of pesticides and fertilizers

(ARA) - It's that time of the year again when millions of do-it-yourself homeowners face the challenges of keeping problem insects and weeds away from home gardens and yards -- while staying within the family budget.

Large Acreage Lot? Save on Maintenance with DIY Tips and Tools

(ARA) - Even if you made smart decisions about your home's financing, the recession probably has you looking to cut home-related costs. If you live in the country or on a larger parcel of land, the time and money required to maintain your property can add up, especially if you've hired professionals to take care of things in the past.

Make your lawn an outdoor oasis

(ARA) - Economic uncertainty has many families skipping expensive vacations and opting for so-called "staycations" in their own backyards. They're cooking, camping and enjoying outdoor activities right at home, making their lawns the perfect spot for an oasis of fun and relaxation.

Easy ways to protect your landscape from deer

(ARA) - When Bambi invites all his friends to dinner, make sure it's not in your yard. If you don't protect your landscaping, Bambi and his friends will be crunching tulips like candy and popping peas right off the vine. You can bet they'll be stealing your prize tomatoes this summer and munching your mums in the fall.

Catch Orchid Fever

(ARA) - From corsages pinned to prom dresses to exotic specimens in greenhouses, orchids are the most glamorous flowering plants in the world, but few know just how easy orchids are to grow and how affordable they've become.

Save money with sophisticated sun control

(ARA) - Do you ever wish you could create a more comfortable home environment while also having a positive impact on the environment? This can be your reality with motorized awnings and window coverings. Window covering and awning motorization has many benefits, one of which is reducing heat gain and loss -- which creates a more energy efficient home.

Natural Ways to Keep Pests from Spoiling Outdoor Summer Fun

(ARA) - From backyard barbecues and pool parties to cultivating your landscaping and "recession garden," summer fun is even better when shared with others ... except when that group includes some unwelcome critters.

Enjoy the benefits of gardening -- for you and for the planet

(ARA) - While some people see gardening as simply playing in the dirt, the physical and mental benefits are well-documented. In addition to being good for your mind and body, sustainable gardening is a great way to be kind to the planet, and to connect you to nature and the food you eat.

Water-conserving, money-saving tips for summer gardens

(ARA) - Summer 2009 may be a bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according to the National Weather Service's Seasonal Drought Outlook. But it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically, to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping efforts.

Create memorable outdoor parties for less

(ARA) - The backyard will be the summer entertainment hot spot as Americans seek affordable ways to spend time with family and friends. But your outdoor party can be spoiled quickly if unwelcome insects show up.

Bird proof your home

(ARA) - Summer is a busy time for birds. Warmer temperatures increase food sources, and birds are on the look out for new nesting spots and mates. Whether they are returning from a winter migration or are resident birds weary from a long winter haul, they have a lot of work to be done before autumn.

Money And Finance  (top)

Tips to stay financially afloat

(ARA) - With job loss at its highest rate in more than two decades and financial systems crumbling, Americans are dealing with the aftermath of a perfect storm of economic events. According to a new survey, one in four people (25 percent) say they're worried about losing their jobs in 2009, and there is no better time for consumers to batten down their financial hatches to prepare for that possibility.

More tax breaks for homeowners in 2009 and beyond

(ARA) - Homeownership and green improvements will be more affordable for more Americans in 2009, thanks to several provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The changes will put more money in taxpayers' pockets and allow homeowners to save thousands of dollars over the next several years.

Smart strategies to increase home sale profits

(ARA) - The proposition of selling a home is getting better with each passing day according to a recently released report from the National Association of Realtors. If you need to sell your home, a few smart strategies can help you increase your profits.

Selling your home? Online tools level the playing field

(ARA) - Modern home selling has gone way beyond the "for sale" sign on the front lawn. Nearly 90 percent of home buyers look online when shopping for a home, according to the National Association of Realtors. So your home-selling efforts need to cruise the Information Superhighway at top speed.

Save money without sparing romance

(ARA) - Champagne, roses and chocolate-covered strawberries spell romance, but all can fade fast. A more innovative and enduring (not to mention budget-conscious) method for adding romance is to bring it outdoors. In fact, your own backyard can be a much more cost-effective and intimate date night.

Simple Ways to Be Green and Save Green When You Shop

(ARA) - In the early days of the "green" movement, some practical-minded Americans may have considered an eco-friendly lifestyle a costly luxury they couldn't afford. Now, however, people are increasingly viewing green habits as cost-cutting measures they can't afford to pass over.

Five Recession Solutions for Your 401(k)

(ARA) - Do you cringe every time you open your 401(k) statement? If you're feeling the temptation of pulling your money, you're not alone. But before you do so, you need to think strategically.

Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle

(ARA) - With vehicles staying on the road longer than ever, the harsh conditions of the daily drive can take their toll over time. Americans spend more than 100 hours a year commuting to and from work according to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. As the amount of time a vehicle stays on the road increases, so does the amount of maintenance required to keep it running.

'Yes You Can' Afford Plastic Surgery … Despite the Ugly Economy

(ARA) - With unemployment at an all-time high, it is becoming a necessity for Americans to put their best face forward. More of us are turning to less costly, non-invasive cosmetic "touch ups" to look competent and feel confident, whether in the workplace, or pounding the pavement.

Special valuables require special insurance

(ARA) - If you're remodeling or redecorating this season, you're probably also buying some goodies to spruce up your home -- like an antique dining set, original artwork or a high-end oriental rug.

Home Inspection Helps Ensure Dream Deals Don't Turn into Nightmares

(ARA) - You found your dream deal on a foreclosed home, but will that great price tag come with a different kind of higher cost? Buying a repossessed property, short sale or a home offered at a bargain price -- because of its condition -- can mean you're assuming much higher risks.

Relationship recession survival guide

(ARA) - Summer is all about spontaneous getaways, romantic interludes and young love, but the current economic condition can take its toll on your relationship. With financial stresses at an all time high, it's often easy to put your romance on the backburner. In fact, 43 percent of U.S. couples say the recession has caused them to argue more often and primarily about finances, according to a recent survey by PayPal.

Summer can be expensive -- maximize your money

(ARA) - The summer months can bring big expenses. The weather is nice, your wardrobe needs a short-sleeved update, you've got vacation time to travel and extra daylight hours to tackle home improvement projects on your list. With so many potential expenses, it's important to maximize your money.

Caregivers helping with finances urged to switch to direct deposit

(ARA) - Half of American caregivers make health-related decisions for a loved one, and a new government survey finds an equal number are now helping to manage the finances of a parent, friend or other person needing their care -- adding to caregivers' levels of stress and anxiety.

Tips for moms to save time, money and energy

(ARA) - As a mom, you're always looking for ways to save time, money and energy to keep your house running smoothly. It's not always easy to find time in the day for all the things you need to do, from balancing the family budget to running errands to shuttling family members between activities.

Organize Debt Consolidation Quickly and Easily

(ARA) - Until recently, Ken Goins of Woodland Hills, Calif. was like most Americans -- he carried a balance on several credit cards. The weight of the balance became heavier and heavier, and Goins just wanted to end his debt.

Late Filers Beware: Avoid These Common Mistakes when Filing Your 2008 Return

(ARA) - The bad news? With so many changes made for the 2008 tax season, some taxpayers are bound to make a mistake on returns. The good news? You can save time and money now that you have filed an extension by learning from the mistakes of others who have already filed.

Tax Tips for Taxpayers Who Filed an Extension

(ARA) - If you filed an extension and still need to file your 2008 tax return, don't panic. The key to getting it done quickly and efficiently is to have a game plan and know what to look for before starting. Use these tips to make doing your taxes easier.

Buying used? How to avoid getting bitten by repair costs

(ARA) - If your old clunker is gasping its last, you might think (like millions of other Americans these days) you can save yourself some money by buying a used car instead of a new one. You can -- if you make smart buying decisions. Hasty or unwise used-car buying can end up costing you much more in the long run.

Packaging is key to selling your home on the Internet

(ARA) - The housing market is a tough sell, especially if you are desperate to move and want to sell your house for a good price. But the Internet can be a great tool to help you up the ante of selling or renting your property.

How to enjoy your 'staycation' this summer

(ARA) - Has today's economy forced you to reconsider your family's annual summer vacation? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. In fact, a recent USA Today/Gallup Poll reported that 52 percent of respondents who had travel plans now intend to cut back on them in some way.

It's still tax season for nonprofits

(ARA) - Tax season may be over for most individuals and businesses, but the story is different for nonprofits. In particular, it's very important for small nonprofits to understand that while they may not have had to file anything with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the past, they now may have a new form to file, called the e-Postcard (or Form 990-N).

New car shopping? Why the time is right, and why it's the right thing to do

(ARA) - Highly motivated dealers, offers to make your payments if you lose your job and a wealth of inventory - all make it a great time to buy a new car.

Start Prepping Now to Avoid Audit, Cut Taxes and Relieve Stress in 2010

(ARA) - You may feel relieved that tax season is over for another year. But 2010 tax time will arrive before you know it, and a few pro-active steps throughout the rest of 2009 will help you avoid an audit, minimize your tax burden and reduce your stress level next April 15.

Recession Inspiring More Mothers to Go Back to School

(ARA) - Earning a degree has long been a dream of many working mothers. While it might seem the recession would put that dream even further out of reach for most, many working and single mothers are actually drawing inspiration from the economy to pursue their dream of getting a higher education.

How to Reduce the Costs of Owning Your Car

(ARA) - Automobile insurance rates, maintenance and repair costs and vehicle ownership expenses continue to rise. Gasoline reached record high prices in 2008 and the U.S. Energy Information Administration expects fuel prices to rise again in the future. Thankfully, you don't have to alter your driving habits or buy a new car to get some relief. Here are some quick, inexpensive and easy ways to save money with your car.

New poll shows Americans gaining weight amidst recession

(ARA) - Belts are tightening across the country as the recession lags on. As wallets get flatter, Americans are getting fatter according to one new study. A June Gallup-Healthways poll found the number of obese Americans increased by 5.5 million people in the last year.

Flavorful, Budget-friendly Fun Foods

(ARA) - With the economy affecting your budget, your family is staying home for more meals. So it's more important than ever to get the most for your dollar when shopping for healthy foods at the grocery store.

Spend money to save money

(ARA) - Sometimes you have to spend money to save money. The average household spends about $2,000 on energy bills every year. If you switched to appliances and lighting products that are Energy Star rated, you could save $75 a year in energy costs.

Surviving the economic roller coaster

(ARA) - It twists, it turns, it goes up, it comes down and it even has the uncanny ability to make many of us feel a bit wobbly and nauseous. The economic roller coaster has taken all of us for a wild ride, particularly over the past year. Unfortunately, 2009 has already proven to have even more twists and turns in store for us.

Dreaming of a Career in Education? Federal Grants May Help

(ARA) - Do you picture yourself one day standing in front of 26 or more pairs of eyes, filling the brains of students of various ages with the information they will need to graduate from high school and go on to a fulfilling life? If molding young minds is your dream, you may be able to get federal help in fulfilling it.

Vacation rental homes: an affordable alternative to hotels

(ARA) - With consumers looking to stretch their travel dollar further in today's challenging economy, many are turning to vacation rental homes as an alternative to traditional hotels.

Online coupons yield the most value when you shop for big-ticket items

(ARA) - Is hunting for online coupons costing you time instead of saving you money? If you spend your online time chasing coupons you could easily find elsewhere - like grocery or health and beauty items regularly advertised in your local paper - you're not getting the most for your time.

Simplify your family budget

(ARA) - Times are tight and you've cut back on the luxuries your family once enjoyed but could live without. However, every family has expenses, so how do you save money on the products or services that are necessities?

Homeowners warm up to tax credit for wood- and pellet-fueled heat

(ARA) - For warmth and beauty in the home, it's hard to beat the ambience of a real wood-burning stove or fireplace. Homeowners now have another reason to warm up to one - they may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500 if they purchase and install a 75-percent efficient wood- or pellet-burning (biomass) stove in 2009 or 2010. Thirty-percent of the total cost, including the appliance, installation and piping, can be claimed.

Planning Spring Home Improvements? Know the Score First

(ARA) - Spring is a popular time to begin home improvement projects, especially if they'll upgrade outdoor living spaces. With the economy keeping more homeowners in place, rather than moving up to bigger, grander digs, improving your home can elevate both your enjoyment and its eventual resale value.

Cheap auto insurance or affordable auto insurance? Big difference

(ARA) - You just found out you need brain surgery. Do you want a cheap surgeon or quality surgery at a price you can afford? If you value your life, the answer is a no-brainer. Same thing goes when it comes to insuring your car. If you value your way of life, really cheap auto insurance is not necessarily a bargain.

The American dream still inspires, even as it evolves, study reveals

(ARA) - Shattered nest eggs, daunting unemployment rates and drastically depreciated home values -- the current financial crisis has no more power to kill the American dream, it seems, than did the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl or the two World Wars.

Eliminate stress with these smart vacation planning tips

(ARA) - It's not officially summer until you've started planning your season getaway. Whether you're packing up for a weekend, a week or a month, going solo or with the family, a pre-vacation plan of action is a necessity to stay organized and stress free.

What's old is new for parents looking to save money

(ARA) - Because raising a child in tough economic times can be expensive and financially challenging, many families are looking for ways to reduce their spending without having to sacrifice their family's well-being. This has resulted in a slew of families getting creative by making old items new again.

Ensure you have the proper auto insurance coverage

(ARA) - We have all seen an auto insurance company ad on television luring customers on a premise of how easy it is to save money with them. However, it's not about just saving money.

Stretch Grocery Budget with Frozen Fruit

(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind these days. Gas prices may have fallen, but other costs are still rising. One place Americans are being more frugal than ever is with their food budgets.

Simple car-care tips for gals on a budget

(ARA) - For many of the 49.7 million single women in the U.S., car care can be a pain. Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility and it's sometimes hard to know what needs a mechanic's attention. For a gal on a budget, calling an auto repair shop for everything just isn't an option. Lucky for car owners today, there are simple things anyone can do to help maintain their car.

Save money without changing your lifestyle

(ARA) - People all over the country, no matter their age, job status or income, are looking at their budgets and adjusting their spending habits. But you don't have to make drastic changes to your lifestyle in order to save money.

Smartphones: From Geeky Luxury to Money-saving Necessity

(ARA) - Americans are cutting costs in many areas of their lives -- but not, it seems, when it comes to staying connected. While the overall mobile phone industry, like most others, is feeling the recession's effects, smartphone sales are booming.

Online coupons make it easy to save

(ARA) - With warm weather already here, adults and children alike flock to the outdoors for sports, recreation and home improvement.

Room air conditioners: a hot way to keep cool and cut energy costs

(ARA) - The hot, humid weather of summer is about to meet Americans' continuing desire to cut costs this cooling season. Room air conditioners are a practical way to cool down when temperatures heat up, especially if you want to save money by only cooling the rooms you use the most.

First-time homebuyer tax credit: 5 essential tips for new buyers

(ARA) - With the revised first-time homebuyer federal income tax credit currently in effect, now is the perfect time to consider making that big purchase, your first home.

Need money for college? Try these tips

(ARA) - Even though the economy has slowed down, college applications are up. Many people are enrolling in undergraduate programs, or going back for an advanced degree.

Stimulus helps homeowners save money

(ARA) - "What's in it for me?" Homeowners will love the answer to that question as they learn more about the new federal economic stimulus bill. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, generally known as the stimulus package, offers special tax credit incentives to homeowners to encourage energy efficiency -- the best part is it's easy.

Plan for the Wedding and for Life in any Economy

(ARA) - Planning for a wedding can be tough, especially when money is tight. But as you make your way through the mile-long checklist of things for the big day, have you thought about life after the wedding? Whether this is your first or second wedding, your dream wedding or a spontaneous ceremony, the financial implications of sharing a lifetime with another person last long after the "I do's."

Five ideas for affordable summer fun

(ARA) - The traditional week at the beach house is out of the budget, thanks to the recession. And you're not too keen on spending $50 per person to visit the local amusement park.

Family fun provides teachable moments at a small cost

(ARA) - The change in seasons brings a change in family activities. With a little planning and a lot of fun, financial education can be packed into every weekend -- without spending a lot of money.

Credit crunch insomnia

(ARA) - If you lay awake late at night worrying about your finances you're not alone. The credit crunch is taking its toll on sleep habits, with Americans losing valuable shut-eye every night, according to new research from The Body Shop. Nearly half of people interviewed claim they are getting a worse night's sleep than before, mostly thanks to the economic downturn.

Smart small business tips for success

(ARA) - Creativity is the key to keeping a small business flourishing in tight economic times. And while creativity will make your business grow stronger, there are also other free tools and opportunities small businesses should use to their advantage.

Tips for first-time homebuyers

(ARA) - As temperatures heat up, so does the housing market. "For Sale" signs adorn lawns across the country.

Is it time to take the money out from under the mattress?

(ARA) -- There it sits in the mail pile or in your e-mail in box, waiting to be opened -- your dreaded 401(k) or bank statement. While the specter of the sad statement doesn't necessarily haunt all of us, you would have to search long and hard to find someone who has not been directly affected in some way by the economic chaos of late.

A home improvement project that pays you back 4 ways

(ARA) - Do you think that the bailout is only for the big guys? Think again.

Save money by keeping your clothes in great shape

(ARA) - In this economy, Americans are finding creative ways to get the most out of everything, and that includes their clothes. By maintaining your wardrobe in the right way, you can save money by making sure your favorite items stay beautiful and wearable for a long time.

Weekend home upgrades: fast, affordable fix-ups

(ARA) - With today's falling home prices, one family's well-worn dwelling can quickly become another's dream "starter" home. Interest rates are at historic lows, meaning buyers can get more house than they could a year ago for the same monthly mortgage payment, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

How to Hit a Financial Planning Homerun

(ARA) - The crack of the bat. The roar of the crowd as you round the bases. While hitting a homerun in the big leagues is only the stuff of dreams for most of us, baseball can serve as a wonderful analogy for our quest for financial security.

Tips for Finding the Right Vehicle that Fits Your Style and Wallet

(ARA) - In today's economy, every dollar counts. If you need to purchase an expensive necessity item like a car you must do so with serious thought and attention to detail. Here are some things to consider.

Get an 'A' in back-to-school savings

(ARA) - It seems like the bell just rang concluding the last day of school, but already it's time to start planning for next year to ensure your kids are prepared for success. With list in hand, you hit the stores to get necessary items. How can you get all the things your child needs and still stay within your budget?

Travel for Less

(ARA) - Despite today's economic woes, people are still traveling; they are just doing so in a much more budget-minded manner. Scouring for deals and methods to cut costs while on vacation has never been more important. One budget-friendly trend has emerged as the solution for those who want to travel for less: vacation home rental.

Top Four Tips for Saving Big Online

(ARA) - These days everyone is looking to save. Whether your kids need new clothes, you need a gift for your upcoming anniversary, or you just want to save at the grocery store, a penny saved really is a penny earned.

Explore World Flavors with Pantry Staples

(ARA) - Just because grocery budgets are tight, doesn't mean flavor needs to suffer. Preparing dishes inspired by traditional cuisine from around the world is an easy way to add excitement to everyday meals, without breaking the bank or buying an expensive plane ticket. Try exploring the flavors of the world right in your own kitchen, by using key ingredients from your pantry for authentic flavor.

Looking for ways to save? Work with your bank

(ARA) - The economic health of the country is all over the news, and people everywhere are worried about layoffs, retirement savings and the state of their financial affairs. An unemployment rate above 8 percent has everyone looking over their shoulders and counting their pennies. If you're worried about what to do if you lose your job or just looking for ways to save money, your first step should be to talk to your bank about how you can make the most of your banking relationship.

Spring Home Deals are Healthy for Those Who Know the Score

(ARA) - Motivated sellers, builders offering deep discounts and incentives, historically low mortgage rates, plenty of inventory and fierce competition for qualified borrowers -it's actually a great time to be buying a house. If your credit score is good, you're in an even better position to negotiate the loan on the home of your dreams this spring.

Out of Work? Tips for 'Chance Entrepreneurs' Starting their own Business

(ARA) - Unemployment figures for the first quarter of 2009 have created a panic in the workforce. The U.S. Labor Department said the national unemployment rate rose to 8.5 percent in March, the highest level in 25 years.

New Credit Score Formula Could Increase Your Score

(ARA) - The credit score formula lenders use to determine your "credit worthiness" may soon change. The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to get a better deal on a mortgage, auto loan and even a cell phone contract. But with the new changes, your credit score could change significantly.

Stressed by financial troubles? Discover 8 ways to cope

(ARA) - Rising credit card debt and job losses have millions of Americans questioning their financial security. Though the economy is slowly showing signs of recovery, the mixed daily news is still causing a lot of people to feel stressed.

Stretch Your Wedding Budget by Renting

(ARA) - Engaged couples long for a wedding day that will be unique and memorable, but in these tough economic times many are becoming more cautious about how they plan and spend their budget.

Three ways to save money with coupons

(ARA) - In this economy, people are looking to save money wherever they can. That means many are turning to an old favorite: coupons. There's no question that coupons can save shoppers serious money at check-out, but grocery coupons have come a long way since the days when they could only be found in the Sunday newspaper.

Smart financial tips for teens and parents

(ARA) - Are you a parent of a teenager? Does your teen expect you to dole out cash like an ATM? Does your child know the word "budget?" As many families take a hard look at their finances in light of the current economy, many are seizing the opportunity to instill money management skills and financial responsibility in their children.

It's a great time to be a 'window shopper'

(ARA) - Many doors are closing due to the economy, but certain windows are becoming easier to open. The 2009/2010 tax credit for energy efficient replacement windows, one of 10 provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is helping homeowners to remodel America one house at a time.

More students taking advantage of online education

(ARA) - As computers evolved from occupying a huge air-conditioned room to being so small they fit into the palm of your hand, how you use them has too.

Protecting your rebuilt nest egg: ID theft basics for boomers

(ARA) - When the shock of shattered nest eggs eased, many Americans got down to the serious work of rebuilding their financial futures. Already, tentative predictions of improvement are replacing dire warnings of doom in headlines across the country.

More Americans Turning Their Passions Into Successful Businesses

(ARA) - If you've got a hobby, or even just a vision, it doesn't take much to turn your dream into an online business that can provide extra income or even a backup plan in the event of a job loss.

Teaching Kids Lessons Beyond Dollars and Cents

(ARA) - To say that money matters have been getting a lot of attention as of late is an understatement. It's hard to turn on the television, read a newspaper or surf the Web without the topic coming up in one form or another. While many of us have grown used to the constant chatter, it might not be the case for children.

Resourceful Ways for Small Business Owners to Save

(ARA) - In this economic environment, everyone is looking for resourceful ways to decrease spending and save money. This is especially true for small business owners, as they look to reduce expenses, take advantage of discounts, increase cash flow and in turn, improve their business's bottom line.

Changing jobs? What to do with your 401(k) plan

(ARA) - Changing jobs may represent an exciting time in your career by providing new challenges and an opportunity to enhance your skills and abilities.

The logic behind online auto insurance quotes

(ARA) - We all want affordable auto insurance, but sometimes it seems that the setting of auto insurance premiums are arbitrary and capricious. But there really is more method than madness to setting premiums and online auto insurance quotes. So, why does auto insurance cost what it costs?

How to Save Money on Senior Care

(ARA) - With America's population aging, billions of dollars are spent each year on senior care expenses. But with economic worries affecting many families, cutting costs has become more important than ever. With a little creativity, seniors and their families can save a substantial amount of money.

Money Matters: Tips from a Pro About Taxes After Retirement

(ARA) - Even though the income tax deadline has passed, people shouldn't lose sight of how the tax decisions they make today can affect their retirement plans tomorrow. If you are within five years of retirement, it's time to fine tune your future finances. For example, have you thought of how taxes will affect you after you say goodbye to the nine to five? Securing retirement income and understanding how taxes apply to your money is crucial so you can afford to live the life you want throughout your golden years.

Tips to save money

(ARA) - Everyone is looking for ways to save money these days, and there are hundreds of tips for cutting costs. But make sure you are prepared to do some research and make comparisons between companies and products, otherwise you may end up spending more money than you save.

Turn the recession into revenue for you

(ARA) - We've all heard the bad news: There is a global recession, the housing market continues to decline, the banking industry is struggling and unemployment continues to rise.

Get the Most Fashion Bang for Your Buck with Accessories

(ARA) - If you are like many, you want to find versatile clothing while sticking to a budget. So how do you get the most out of your wardrobe without spending a lot of money? When you need a fashion thrill without the expensive price tag, turn to accessories.

3 easy ways to cut energy costs this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings fun in the sun and longer daylight hours with one caveat: Hotter temperatures means running the air conditioner and increased energy bills.

Savvy tips for cutting insurance costs

(ARA) - A shaky economy and high unemployment are leading some people to put off purchases and look for more ways to spend less.

New to coupon-clipping? Tips for getting the most out of coupons

(ARA) - On top of working extra hours, slashing expenses and worrying about the future, the recession has a lot of us doing something we never did before -- clipping coupons.

Strapped for Cash? HVAC Solutions Keep Costs Low and Comfort High

(ARA) - You may find the economic climate less than balmy right now, but that doesn't mean the climate inside your home can't be comfortable.

Greening Your Home can Earn You a Tax Credit

(ARA) - Spring is here, summer's just around the corner and it's time to break out of that winter funk. With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Americans spent $170.8 billion on home improvement projects in fourth quarter 2008, exceeding new home investment, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Small Changes Can Mean Big Savings on Healthcare Costs

(ARA) - In a tough economy, everyone needs to cut back on unnecessary expenses and save money wherever possible. Healthcare is often one of the largest expenses a family faces, but there are ways to cut healthcare costs without shortchanging your health.

Simple solutions to save money at home this summer

(ARA) - As summer rolls around, you may find yourself getting that familiar anxious feeling in the pit of your stomach. No, not just because it is time to slip into a swimsuit (that's an entirely different issue to contend with). You're probably getting antsy thinking about all the money you are going to spend at home while the kids are on summer vacation.

Money-saving, year-round tax tips for small business owners

(ARA) - Small business owners face a variety of financial challenges, from securing financing and creating a marketing plan, to maintaining accounting books and minimizing tax liabilities. Regardless of whether business owners do the bookkeeping themselves or outsource it, they are responsible for staying organized and strategizing to increase the bottom line.

Five Tips for Retirement Planning in a Challenging Economy

(ARA) - "What do I do now?" This is the question that is being asked by everyone from baby boomers on the cusp of retirement to 20-somethings who have just started their retirement savings. Today's volatile market has left everyone in the dark.

Pets  (top)

Summer pet protection from heat and fireworks

(ARA) - With summer upon us, warmer weather beckons everyone outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. When family and friends gather for backyard barbecues and outings in the park, it is natural to want to include the pets. It is wise, though, to consider the health and safety of pets before taking them out into the heat for prolonged periods.

Does your housecat need a behavioral housecall? Help is here

(ARA) - Cats have earned the title of America's favorite pet in part because they outnumber dogs in households across the country, but it could also be because their quirky personalities make life interesting.

Pet hospice care helps pet owners cope with death

(ARA) - When Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., discovered one of her Great Danes had cancer, she was faced with a difficult decision, but she felt fortunate that her veterinarian, Dr. Alice Villalobos, was familiar with veterinary hospice care and introduced her to the concept.

Birders clubs -- beyond the binoculars

(ARA) - Bird watching is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the country. It's easy, inexpensive and relaxing. Best of all, wild birds are beautiful and fascinating to watch. They're also wonderful to listen to, and with more than 800 species in North America alone, there is something for everyone.

Keep Your Dog Happy When He's Home Alone

(ARA) - Dogs love our company and knowing they're part of the pack. But the fact is humans have to leave the house some time, whether it's for work, to run errands or to go to a place where dogs aren't welcome. So when you can't be home to entertain your dog, how do you keep him busy and happy when he's alone?

Pick up that poop -- it's a public health concern

(ARA) - It's a big problem whenever people are out and about with their dogs. Some dog walkers don't want to scoop their pooch's poop. But a number of diseases caused by parasites like roundworms can be transferred from pets to people via droppings. Roundworm infections in young children can be very serious.

Create a home fit for humans and four-legged friends

(ARA) - Americans love their pets and there are certainly lots of them to love. Sixty three percent of U.S. households own a pet and the most popular animals -- dogs and cats -- make up 82 percent of all pets, according to the American Pet Products Association.

Protect your pets from fleas and ticks

(ARA) - Summertime brings hot weather, camping trips and, for pet owners, fleas and ticks. These small bugs aren't a small concern. Ticks are second only to mosquitoes as vectors of human diseases, and flea and tick populations are on the rise nationwide.

Keep your cat green and happy

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and we are all thinking about eco-friendly ways to refresh our homes.

Scratching the surface of canine allergies

(ARA) - Most people consider their dog to be more than just a pet. Dogs are true members of the family. So when your dog is itching uncontrollably, it is frustrating not to know what's wrong. Once owners rule out the possibility of fleas, they are often left with questions unanswered. One problem frequently overlooked is a skin disease caused by environmental allergies.

Real Estate  (top)

Solutions to help homeowners outsmart Mother Nature

(ARA) - Protecting your home means you're pitted in a constant struggle against the forces of nature. Products and improvements that help you beat the weather are a smart investment.

Simple summer spruce-ups that won't set you back a bundle

(ARA) - Summer is already in full swing, and the guests are lining up for weekend brunches, pool parties, backyard barbecues and sophisticated dinners. If you're feeling the urge to spruce up your home for summer entertaining, you can make a big impact on a modest budget with some simple steps.

Five Kitchen Fix-ups for $500 or Less

(ARA) - After years of telling yourself you can live with the outdated hardware, the ugly orange laminate countertops and the daffodil-yellow wall paint, you've finally admitted to yourself that your love affair with your kitchen decor is over.

Driveway improvements speed home offers, lower costs

(ARA) - With a "For Sale" sign in your front yard, you want potential buyers to take a good, long look at your property. And even if you're not planning a move, you want to be sure you protect and maintain your home to keep future repairs at a minimum.

Spring Home Deals are Healthy for Those Who Know the Score

(ARA) - Motivated sellers, builders offering deep discounts and incentives, historically low mortgage rates, plenty of inventory and fierce competition for qualified borrowers -it's actually a great time to be buying a house. If your credit score is good, you're in an even better position to negotiate the loan on the home of your dreams this spring.

How to Promote Sustainability without Sacrifice at Home

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to think green. The sun is shining and plants are in bloom -- so why not get inspired to consider adding a bit of green to your lifestyle? Here's a look at how you can reduce your consumption of the earth's resources to help preserve them for years to come.

Adding, upgrading a deck is great alternative to vacation spending

(ARA) - Instead of spending on pricey vacations, more Americans are turning to money-saving alternatives in their own backyards. Upgrading or adding a deck is a great way to take advantage of outdoor living spaces.

Tips for first-time homebuyers

(ARA) - As temperatures heat up, so does the housing market. "For Sale" signs adorn lawns across the country.

The technology that makes your home's walls more durable

(ARA) - With an $8,000 federal tax credit available for first-time homebuyers and tax incentives on the table for home improvement projects, you may be thinking this is the right time to build or renovate a home. While you're diving into the fun aspects of choosing paint colors and light fixtures, don't overlook the importance of what's behind the walls.

A Great Garage Door: the Lipstick on Your Home's Facade

(ARA) - Smaller is apparently better in the minds of many homebuyers looking for the right deal in the prolonged decline of the housing market.

New Deck Trends Help Define Your Outdoor Living Area

(ARA) - Just as your home's decor is a statement of your taste and personality, so is your backyard. As the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Selling your home? Online tools level the playing field

(ARA) - Modern home selling has gone way beyond the "for sale" sign on the front lawn. Nearly 90 percent of home buyers look online when shopping for a home, according to the National Association of Realtors. So your home-selling efforts need to cruise the Information Superhighway at top speed.

Take the guesswork out of finding flooring

(ARA) - If you haven't shopped for flooring in the past few years, prepare yourself. The vast array of hard-surface options is extensive, to say the least.

Adding deck lights a simple way to enhance outdoor living

(ARA) - As summer rolls in and guests show up, the benefit of having outdoor living space for relaxing and entertaining becomes readily apparent. Homeowners love having extra space where they can hang out, and outdoor environments are a huge plus for those trying to sell or rent out a home.

'Green' Equals Green with Ceramic Tile

(ARA) - For homeowners, good news has been hard to come by in this bleak economy. So it may come as a happy surprise to many to learn that the two most compelling trends in home remodeling and maintenance -- pinching pennies and going "green" -- are quite compatible with each other.

Weekend home upgrades: fast, affordable fix-ups

(ARA) - With today's falling home prices, one family's well-worn dwelling can quickly become another's dream "starter" home. Interest rates are at historic lows, meaning buyers can get more house than they could a year ago for the same monthly mortgage payment, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Make life easier with little effort

(ARA) - With busy schedules and lives constantly on the go, it's easy to be forgetful. But in today's connected world, with a little help from technology, it is possible to accomplish what you need to with barely a second thought.

Planning Spring Home Improvements? Know the Score First

(ARA) - Spring is a popular time to begin home improvement projects, especially if they'll upgrade outdoor living spaces. With the economy keeping more homeowners in place, rather than moving up to bigger, grander digs, improving your home can elevate both your enjoyment and its eventual resale value.

Cutting Costs? How to Get the Best Deal on Furniture

(ARA) - You may be able to get a few more years out of your car, and you've definitely decided to put off purchasing a big-screen, high-def plasma TV. But sometimes buying furniture is not a luxury, it's a necessity.

Home Inspection Helps Ensure Dream Deals Don't Turn into Nightmares

(ARA) - You found your dream deal on a foreclosed home, but will that great price tag come with a different kind of higher cost? Buying a repossessed property, short sale or a home offered at a bargain price -- because of its condition -- can mean you're assuming much higher risks.

A home improvement project that pays you back 4 ways

(ARA) - Do you think that the bailout is only for the big guys? Think again.

The home cleaning task that can save you money

(ARA) - Home cleaning season meets a recession -- what better time to take care of some often-overlooked household cleaning tasks that can save you big bucks in the long run? Some of the costliest repairs are ones that could easily be prevented with simple maintenance steps.

First-time homebuyer tax credit: 5 essential tips for new buyers

(ARA) - With the revised first-time homebuyer federal income tax credit currently in effect, now is the perfect time to consider making that big purchase, your first home.

Dressing your home with designed exteriors

(ARA) - Whether you're building a new home or remodeling for a different look, one of the first things you need to consider is your home's curb appeal. Common curb appeal updates include landscaping, walkway and patio renovations. Another remodeling practice that can lead to major curb appeal is updating the surfaces of a home's exterior walls.

What You Should Know When Shopping for a Water Heater

(ARA) - How's your relationship with your household appliances? You open your refrigerator every day and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer several times each week.

Asphalt Shingles -- Are They The Best Investment For Your Home?

(ARA) - During this time of economic uncertainty, you may be hesitant to invest money in your home. It is important to remember, though, that your home is a valuable asset. In order to maintain your investment, home maintenance or repair projects are essential. An important area of your home to maintain is the roof, which may provide up to 50 percent of your home's exterior protection.

Packaging is key to selling your home on the Internet

(ARA) - The housing market is a tough sell, especially if you are desperate to move and want to sell your house for a good price. But the Internet can be a great tool to help you up the ante of selling or renting your property.

The Good News: Bath Remodels Remain Tops for ROI and Enjoyment

(ARA) - National foreclosure statistics can be downright frightening - until you realize that despite record increases in foreclosure rates, the majority of American homeowners are still making their mortgage payments.

Eliminate your garage grime: simple summer clean-up solutions

(ARA) - Summer is here and it's time to clean the garage. The garage door will inevitably be open and you don't want to be embarrassed when the neighbors stop by, do you? Take the time to give the space a thorough cleaning and update. There are a number of simple steps you can take to clean and organize your garage so that when your neighbors do walk by, they'll be amazed at the transformation.

Smart strategies to increase home sale profits

(ARA) - The proposition of selling a home is getting better with each passing day according to a recently released report from the National Association of Realtors. If you need to sell your home, a few smart strategies can help you increase your profits.

Strapped for Cash? HVAC Solutions Keep Costs Low and Comfort High

(ARA) - You may find the economic climate less than balmy right now, but that doesn't mean the climate inside your home can't be comfortable.

Pool Safety Measures Ensure Safe Summer Fun

(ARA) - People drive cars even though there are accidents every day. You simple take precautions and wear your seatbelt. The same goes for home pools. With proper safety measures in place, you and your family can enjoy endless hours of safe pool fun.

The lighter side of nature-inspired home decor

(ARA) - If the words "nature-inspired decor" make you think of muted wall hues or overwrought floral fabrics, it's time to rethink your take on this hot design trend.

A bright idea for green remodeling: venting skylights

(ARA) - As green building and remodeling practices become standard procedure, the use of more natural light and passive ventilation is here to stay.

More tax breaks for homeowners in 2009 and beyond

(ARA) - Homeownership and green improvements will be more affordable for more Americans in 2009, thanks to several provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The changes will put more money in taxpayers' pockets and allow homeowners to save thousands of dollars over the next several years.

Seasonal  (top)

Great dinners start on the grill

(ARA) - Dinnertime is a lot more fun as the grilling season gets under way and aromas of sizzling food fill the air. In fact, there's a good case to make for cooking the whole dinner on the grill.

Five strategies to help you save on summer travel

(ARA) - After a long winter of hard work, inclement weather, schoolbooks and bad news on the economy, who couldn't use a break this summer? The recession probably has many American families reconsidering their summer vacation plans, but with some smart travel strategies, it is possible for the whole family to enjoy a budget-friendly summer getaway.

Your summer beauty routine, inspired by nature

(ARA) - Warm weather is here and it's time to update your beauty routine for summer. Why not take some inspiration from warm weather's renewal theme and refresh your beauty regimen?

'Scent-ual' ways to enhance your outdoor enjoyment this summer

(ARA) - Every season has its signature scents and summer is no exception. What summer scent stimulates your senses? Is it freshly mown grass? Or perhaps the faint smell of coconut that makes you think of sunscreen and summer afternoons at the beach? Or even the fragrant hint of lavender or rose from the flower garden?

Growing list of 'superfruits' pack a nutritional wallop

(ARA) - Powering up your diet with superfruit-rich dishes can be easier than you think. The superfruit title is no longer reserved for berries -- nutritionists now include other antioxidant- and vitamin-rich juicy gems on the superfruit list, such as peaches, mangos and oranges.

Selecting and grilling the season's freshest fish

(ARA) - There are few summer pastimes more honored than backyard grilling and entertaining. But before you fire up the grill for your next bash or weeknight dinner, you should learn how to properly select and grill fresh fish to perfection.

Stay safe in the water this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings trips to the beach, splashing in lakes and rivers and parties by the pool. But that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if someone drowns. While it's unpleasant to think about the worst case scenario, it turns out approximately one in four U.S. adults knew someone who drowned and nearly half of adults say they've had a near-drowning experience, according to a recent American Red Cross survey.

Tasty summer dishes sizzle with sweet Vidalia onions

(ARA) - Maybe it was helping your grandma with her favorite summer recipe or shopping with your mom at the market when the first shipment of the season arrived. No matter the memory, Vidalia onions are as versatile and delicious today as they were back then.

Manage stress for summer sanity

(ARA) - The summer season brings about visions of relaxing vacations, backyard barbecues and kids riding bicycles. These scenes hardly invoke tension, yet summer always arrives with its share of stress.

New football helmet technology aids in concussion reduction

(ARA) - Every football season nearly 35,000 players are admitted to the hospital for head-related injuries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Thousands of other concussions will go undetected at the high school and college football level, often due to the desire for athletes to stay on the field, despite the warning signs.

Three Simple Tips for an Affordable Family Camping Trip

(ARA) - When faced with financial challenges like those posed by the recent economic downturn, American families tend to react to their decreased discretionary dollars by getting "back to basics." They pursue different leisure activities and ones that offer quality time that can bring them closer together.

Please picky eaters with kid-friendly favorites

(ARA) - What's the best way to get picky eaters to enjoy good-for-you foods? Get kids involved in preparing meals and snacks. Experts agree that when children lend a hand (or two) in meal preparation, they are much more likely to eat what they're proud to have helped make.

Five ideas for affordable summer fun

(ARA) - The traditional week at the beach house is out of the budget, thanks to the recession. And you're not too keen on spending $50 per person to visit the local amusement park.

Picnics: Beyond Potato Chips and Turkey Sandwiches

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor recreation and commune with nature. No matter which coast you reside on -- the Atlantic or the Pacific -- or somewhere in the middle, near a lake or a pond, a shoreline picnic is a perfect retreat. Picnics are a great way to reconnect with family and friends. Lovers are synonymous with picnics, especially when a proposal or anniversary is cause for celebration.

Slim down this summer

(ARA) -- Warm weather has arrived, which means you're shedding clothing and looking for ways to lose some of those extra pounds that accumulated while you hibernated away the winter months.

Summertime protection for mom and baby -- inside and out

(ARA) - Whether you're relaxing beachside on vacation, picnicking in the park or strolling through the neighborhood, warm weather offers many opportunities for outdoor fun. However, these activities can lead to dehydration, sunburn and fatigue if you're not careful. Barbara Dehn, women's health nurse practitioner and award-winning author, offers tips to keep mom and baby safe all summer long.

Birders clubs -- beyond the binoculars

(ARA) - Bird watching is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the country. It's easy, inexpensive and relaxing. Best of all, wild birds are beautiful and fascinating to watch. They're also wonderful to listen to, and with more than 800 species in North America alone, there is something for everyone.

Natural Ways to Keep Pests from Spoiling Outdoor Summer Fun

(ARA) - From backyard barbecues and pool parties to cultivating your landscaping and "recession garden," summer fun is even better when shared with others ... except when that group includes some unwelcome critters.

Smart Solutions for the Home

(ARA) - Between running the daily car pool, business meetings and planning family meals, it can be very difficult for today's busy mom to keep the home clean and organized. While moms do their best to survive today's fast-paced lifestyle, there are simple steps to get homes back in tip-top shape and revitalize living spaces.

Grilled beef adds sizzle to summer meals

(ARA) - It's that time of year when enticing smells from the grill waft from yard to yard, tempting taste buds. When it comes to selecting what type of meat to grill for your friends and family, beef ranks supreme.

Smart ways summer travelers can cut hotel costs

(ARA) - How does your family plan to save money on summer vacation this year? Driving rather than flying? Maybe carrying all the items you need instead of renting once arriving at your destination? These are all great ways to save! But how do you cut back on one of the biggest, yet totally necessary costs of travel - accommodations?

Easy ways to protect your landscape from deer

(ARA) - When Bambi invites all his friends to dinner, make sure it's not in your yard. If you don't protect your landscaping, Bambi and his friends will be crunching tulips like candy and popping peas right off the vine. You can bet they'll be stealing your prize tomatoes this summer and munching your mums in the fall.

Summer travel tips

(ARA) - With the summer travel season upon us, people are looking for ways to have fun and get the most out of their trip, while staying within budget.

Cut connections to find comfort in the outdoors

(ARA) - Between conference calls, cooking dinner and clipping coupons, women are escaping to the outdoors this summer for an everyday oasis from stress.

Summer's freshest ideas to feed your kids well

(ARA) - Summertime brings out the best in family meals -- fresh vegetables and fruit, fresh-air dining and a fresh opportunity for parents to maintain their commitment to feeding their kids well.

The secret to a year-long backyard vacation

(ARA) - When the weather is warm, Americans flock to the water. Community pools are overflowing with children playing games, adults swim laps at the local high school pool and vacationing families excitedly splash in hotel pools and relax in nearby hot tubs. But moments at the pool are fleeting unless you know the secret to a year-long backyard vacation.

Hot tips for a fun, healthy summer

(ARA) - Summer means Americans will spend more time outdoors and increase their level of activity in general. Staying healthy in the summer is just as important as staying warm and protecting your body from the elements during the fall and winter months.

Summer camp helps youth battle 'nature deficit disorder'

(ARA) - With a growing number of researchers reporting that millions of children suffer from a lack of outdoor exposure and play, summer break can increase parents' concerns about children spending beautiful days in front of the television, computer or gaming station.

Tips and Tricks for Adding Curb Appeal to Your Landscape

(ARA) - You only get one chance for your home to make a first impression. With a little help from Mother Nature, you can demand a second look from passersby with a show-stopping front yard.

'Back to school' means 'back to basics' for kids' clothing

(ARA) - Back to school season can be trying on a family's budget. In addition to each classroom's list of school supplies and the kids' pleas for extras, there are plenty of expenses that don't appear on the class list. School clothes often top the list and deplete the budget. Learning how to care for clothing is an often overlooked piece of the puzzle.

A cool and refreshing twist for summer meals

(ARA) - Summer is the time for backyard entertaining, whether it's a simple sandwich lunch with a few friends or a patio party for the neighbors.

Marinate your grilled fare for taste and safety

(ARA) - Literally soaked in flavor, marinated foods are undeniably delicious. But did you know that marinating also makes your grilled foods safer?

Lawn Mowing: Get Reel, Go Gas-free

(ARA) - Warm weather arrives with the melodic chipping of songbirds preparing their nests. What? Can't hear them? The steady rumble of lawn mowers not only drowns out nature's melodies, it disturbs wildlife and sleeping neighbors, and is an unhealthy source of summertime air pollution.

Beating the summer bummer of bug bites and bee stings

(ARA) - Ahhh, summer -- July Fourth fireworks, family barbecues, ice cold watermelon, weekends at the beach ... and bug bites. Or worse -- bee, hornet and wasp stings.

Getting kids to sleep while on the road

(ARA) - With the summer season upon us, many families will be flocking to the highways to embark on amusement ride-filled vacations, to camp at majestic national parks or to drive across the country to visit grandma and grandpa on the opposite coast. But with all of the excitement and fun away from home come missed naps and overstimulated kids who don't want to sleep at night.

Iced coffee: A cool way to entertain this summer

(ARA) - As summer draws near and warm weather arrives, the summer entertaining season will be here before you know it. And now more than ever, people are looking for economical ways to entertain at home while maintaining their own signature style.

Room air conditioners: a hot way to keep cool and cut energy costs

(ARA) - The hot, humid weather of summer is about to meet Americans' continuing desire to cut costs this cooling season. Room air conditioners are a practical way to cool down when temperatures heat up, especially if you want to save money by only cooling the rooms you use the most.

Thwarting summer's little creepy-crawly - the tick

(ARA) - For sheer skin-crawling summer creepiness, few experiences beat a tick bite. But worse than the unpleasant surprise of discovering you've been bitten by a tick are the health risks that come with the bite.

Fourth of July grilling safety tips

(ARA) - Independence Day is the most popular outdoor cooking holiday of the year with more than two-thirds of Americans firing up the grill, smoker or fryer, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. A few simple steps can help you prepare your grill to make sure you have a safe backyard celebration.

Is your garage hurricane ready?

(ARA) - Weather forecasters are predicting that the 2009 hurricane season will be a "relatively normal" one for U.S. coastal areas, with a good chance that six to eight hurricanes will form in the Atlantic basin. Although hurricane season starts in June, activity usually peaks in September.

Simple steps to reduce sodium in your summer dining

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce you slather on your grilled chicken to the frozen dinner you grab between coming home from work and running the kids to soccer practice, sodium is simply everywhere in warm-weather fare.

Turn the Typical Backyard Barbecue into a Hot Spot for Fun and Flavor

(ARA) - Many American families will forego the traditional summer vacation travel this year and spend more time than ever making home-spun fun in the sun at the backyard barbecue. But if your version of barbecuing involves the same old fare and familiar flavors, it's time to spice up your old standby.

Keep your favorite summer clothes looking like new

(ARA) - Summer fashion always calls for bright, fun colors that are a welcome relief after a long winter of black and gray. However, those bright summer clothes come at a cost -- more maintenance and tricky summertime stains. There are tricks you can use to keep your favorite summer clothes looking as fresh and bright in September as they did in May.

Summer family fun with blueberries

(ARA) - Summer brings warm weather, a break from school and endless hours spent outdoors with friends and family. Summer is also a time for good eating, with farmer's markets and roadside stands brimming over with the fruits and berries of the season. Locally grown blueberries are available in most areas of the country and from all reports, this year's supply is excellent.

6 summer wardrobe essentials every woman needs

(ARA) - Are the warm rays of the sun inspiring your inner fashionista? Summer is the perfect season to jazz up your wardrobe with fun and fashionable items that make you look great. But how do you know where to start in a fashion world that offers endless possibilities?

Don't Let Boating 'Under the Influence' Spoil Fun on the Water

(ARA) - Heading out to enjoy a day of fun on the water this summer? If it involves boating, jet skiing or water skiing, you may want to think twice about the beverages you bring. More than half of all boating accidents involve alcohol or drugs. And with more than 17 million boats crowding our shorelines and inland lakes and rivers, our nation's waterways are second only to highways as the scene of accidental deaths in our country.

Adding, upgrading a deck is great alternative to vacation spending

(ARA) - Instead of spending on pricey vacations, more Americans are turning to money-saving alternatives in their own backyards. Upgrading or adding a deck is a great way to take advantage of outdoor living spaces.

Top 5 must-have summer beauty essentials

(ARA) - Summer means making memories with friends and loved ones. There are more cameras at summer events than there are at a movie premiere, and you'll want to look your best while you beat the heat.

Burger season is back -- don't forget the basics

(ARA) - Americans love hamburgers ... that's a fact. An estimated 1.5 billion pounds of ground beef become those favored burgers cooked at home each year. Whether it's gas versus charcoal, with cheese or without, every burger fan has a different opinion about what makes the perfect patty.

Five Summer Splurges for Less than $10

(ARA) - Even if you, like many Americans, are staying close to home this summer, you don't have to miss out on warm-weather indulgences. Despite lingering financial concerns, simple summer splurges still abound.

Big, Bountiful Salads That Satisfy

(ARA) - The days when salads were strictly a side dish to something more important -- they're so over. A big, bountiful salad deserves to be the center of attention.

Maintain your health while traveling this summer

(ARA) - Summer has arrived, which means many people are looking forward to traveling on a relaxing vacation. Whether that includes spending a long weekend at the beach, staying close to home with family and friends or jetting off to a unique destination, it's important to remember not to take a vacation from your health.

Water-conserving, money-saving tips for summer gardens

(ARA) - Summer 2009 may be a bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according to the National Weather Service's Seasonal Drought Outlook. But it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically, to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping efforts.

Use technology as a trainer

(ARA) - Summer is here. Say 'so long' to the stuffy gym and hello to biking, swimming and outdoor exercise. An added bonus -- no more gym fees.

Summer can be expensive -- maximize your money

(ARA) - The summer months can bring big expenses. The weather is nice, your wardrobe needs a short-sleeved update, you've got vacation time to travel and extra daylight hours to tackle home improvement projects on your list. With so many potential expenses, it's important to maximize your money.

How to arrange your furniture to maximize space for summer

(ARA) - During warm-weather months, you have a primitive urge to clean up, clean out, and re-arrange your living space. Maybe it was easy for our forebears to clean out their caves, but for many of us it becomes a real challenge.

Dress for success and comfort at work

(ARA) - Wondering what to wear at the office as the temperature climbs this summer? Fashion experts at The Art Institutes have some words to live by when dressing for success at your workplace.

Riding escalators: A summer safety reminder

(ARA) - Summer means more time spent out and about. With activities ranging from swimming at the local pool to attending festivals, amusement parks and sporting events, people are visiting new places and entering new buildings. While outdoor safety may be top of mind for many this summer, indoor safety is equally important.

Gardens with Color Combos and Foliage Factor

(ARA) - Lawns and gardens that are eye-catching have harmonious colorful plants in bloom and dramatic foliage varieties patterned in a way that appeals to the senses.

How to keep summer foods fresh and safe

(ARA) - Summer is the season to be outdoors with friends and family at picnics, barbecues and many other events. But the warm weather also brings an increase in foodborne illnesses when food sits out in hot, humid conditions. Make sure your summer party is memorable for reasons other than food poisoning by taking steps to keep food fresh and safe.

Let Mother Nature be your guide for summer entertaining

(ARA) - As the cost of an evening out continues to grow, so does the trend of staying home to entertain family and friends. If you're a budget-conscious consumer, you don't have to spend a fortune to dazzle your guests; experts say you can get some of the best summer decorating ideas from Mother Nature.

Summer pet protection from heat and fireworks

(ARA) - With summer upon us, warmer weather beckons everyone outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. When family and friends gather for backyard barbecues and outings in the park, it is natural to want to include the pets. It is wise, though, to consider the health and safety of pets before taking them out into the heat for prolonged periods.

Create a Latin culinary experience at home

(ARA) - In Mexico, the heart of the family resides in the kitchen where friends and family share the comforts of great, flavorful meals. A number of influences from Mexican and Latin culture have affected Americans in how we celebrate, cook and eat. And more of us, no matter what heritage, are spending more time dining at home with our families. With the popularity of Mexican and Latin dishes on the rise, you can celebrate spending time with family while enjoying an authentic Mexican meal in your own kitchen.

A delicious summer twist on American classics

(ARA) - Summer is the time when we break out the grill and dust off the picnic basket to celebrate warm weather with friends and loved ones. It's also the time people bring out classic summer treats from tasty, hot barbecue to all-American apple pie. But classic doesn't have to mean boring when you add a few delicious summer twists.

Don't let stains ruin your summer

(ARA) - From the barbecue sauce dripped on your favorite blouse to the cherry popsicle the kids smeared on the patio furniture cushions, summer is the season of stains. But stained clothes and upholstery probably don't make the kind of style statement you'd like as you entertain this summer.

Make your lawn an outdoor oasis

(ARA) - Economic uncertainty has many families skipping expensive vacations and opting for so-called "staycations" in their own backyards. They're cooking, camping and enjoying outdoor activities right at home, making their lawns the perfect spot for an oasis of fun and relaxation.

Senior Living  (top)

Scale down to live large in small spaces

(ARA) - Many people are looking for smaller homes for a variety of reasons. For most, there has been a philosophical shift, considering a move to a smaller living space less of a downsizing and more of a right-sizing decision.

Six steps in six days to win the battle over 'Boomeritis'

(ARA) - If you are one of the 27 million Americans who suffer with joint pain from osteoarthritis (OA), you are not alone.

Daily physical activity helps lessen the severity of arthritis

(ARA) - More than 46 million people of all ages in the U.S. have arthritis. A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that arthritis is the nation's most common disability.

Boomers launch rewarding encore careers as tour guides

(ARA) - Job loss and the lack of new job opportunities are devastating many baby boomers, forcing an unprecedented number to seek early retirement. As a result, the most affluent generation in history now faces an unexpected challenge: making ends meet.

Nutrition vital for good eyesight, studies show

(ARA) - Caring for eyes includes paying attention to nutrition, with recent studies showing a strong correlation between good nutrition and the prevention of age-related eye diseases.

Regular headaches? Get relief with natural remedies

(ARA) - What do millions of Americans have in common? Headaches.

The Successful Method to Growing Young

(ARA) - As we grow older, we look forward to the changes that life brings -- retirement, grandchildren, financial security and travel. Other changes that we might not accept so readily are the aches, pains and mental slowdowns that leave us longing for the good old days of our youth.

Lower your risk for diabetes and heart disease

(ARA) - During a typical day, your blood pressure goes up and down, and that's healthy. For about 65 million Americans, however, blood pressure remains high over time. Are you one of them?

Looking better helps cancer patients feel better

(ARA) - For Nancy Lumb, one of the hardest parts of having cancer was dealing with the appearance-related side effects of treatment.

Protecting your rebuilt nest egg: ID theft basics for boomers

(ARA) - When the shock of shattered nest eggs eased, many Americans got down to the serious work of rebuilding their financial futures. Already, tentative predictions of improvement are replacing dire warnings of doom in headlines across the country.

First New Treatment in More Than 40 Years Available for Hyperuricemia in Patients with Gout

(ARA) - An estimated 5.1 million Americans suffer from gout, and it is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men over age 40. For these sufferers, a new medicine is now available to help treat an underlying condition of gout. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ULORIC(R) (febuxostat) 40-mg and 80-mg tablets, a once-daily oral medication for the chronic management of hyperuricemia in patients with gout. ULORIC is the first new treatment for this condition in more than 40 years, and it may provide patients and physicians with another option to meet unmet medical needs.

What's that? Your hearing affects your ability to get a job?

(ARA) - You walk into the job interview. Your hair is groomed. Your smile gleams. You're wearing your best interview suit. You look fabulous, right?

Living and loving with prostate cancer

(ARA) - A man is supposed to be physically healthy and emotionally strong. So where does he turn to when a disease such as prostate cancer comes along, which threatens this? An international call to action has been launched which draws attention to the impact that prostate cancer has on a man's love life, and calls for much better information to help couples through this difficult time.

Leading expert says healthful aging depends on current daily habits

(ARA) - When it comes to healthful aging, a preventive approach is the key to success. By implementing some simple healthy habits today, we can achieve a healthier future. "Our bodies' health -- particularly as we age -- requires that we take precautionary measures to strengthen ourselves," explains Donnica L. Moore, MD, women's health expert and advocate, and editor in chief of Women's Health for Life (DK 2009). Consider her tips for healthful aging as part of an improved wellness plan.

How to Save Money on Senior Care

(ARA) - With America's population aging, billions of dollars are spent each year on senior care expenses. But with economic worries affecting many families, cutting costs has become more important than ever. With a little creativity, seniors and their families can save a substantial amount of money.

The Guide to a Safe and Stylish Bathroom

(ARA) - The bathroom, often a place of relaxation and comfort, can also be a dangerous space. Whether your family members are 3 years old or 93, the risk of getting hurt in the bathroom is the same for all ages.

Surviving the economic roller coaster

(ARA) - It twists, it turns, it goes up, it comes down and it even has the uncanny ability to make many of us feel a bit wobbly and nauseous. The economic roller coaster has taken all of us for a wild ride, particularly over the past year. Unfortunately, 2009 has already proven to have even more twists and turns in store for us.

Money Matters: Tips from a Pro About Taxes After Retirement

(ARA) - Even though the income tax deadline has passed, people shouldn't lose sight of how the tax decisions they make today can affect their retirement plans tomorrow. If you are within five years of retirement, it's time to fine tune your future finances. For example, have you thought of how taxes will affect you after you say goodbye to the nine to five? Securing retirement income and understanding how taxes apply to your money is crucial so you can afford to live the life you want throughout your golden years.

Great, grown-up ideas for 're-feathering' your empty nest

(ARA) - You're proud that he made it through four years of college. You couldn't be more thrilled that she landed her dream job, even if it's in a city 1,000 miles from home.

Caregivers helping with finances urged to switch to direct deposit

(ARA) - Half of American caregivers make health-related decisions for a loved one, and a new government survey finds an equal number are now helping to manage the finances of a parent, friend or other person needing their care -- adding to caregivers' levels of stress and anxiety.

Boomers back in the job market: Stay ahead by getting your hearing checked

(ARA) - Impressive resume â€- check. Perfect interview suit â€- check. Hearing aid â€- uh, how's that again?

Hearing loss is treatable -- have your hearing checked today

(ARA) - There is no specific symptom and rarely an "Ah-ha!" moment that lets you know you're losing your hearing. Rather, hearing loss is most often gradual. It affects millions of people, is one of the most common American health problems and often goes undetected. A professional hearing screening can tell you with certainty if you're experiencing hearing loss and your audiologist can help you hear better.

Baby boomers should plan ahead for late-in-life care

(ARA) - Baby boomers rocked Woodstock, protested wars, rallied for civil rights and today have a solid reputation as professionals who work hard and play harder. But as record numbers of boomers continue to age, their health problems rise in direct proportion. If you're a member of this generation and haven't yet made decisions about your late-in-life health care, someone else could make them for you.

Older Adult Volunteers Bring New Expertise and New Life to Nonprofits

(ARA) - When Margaret Ross retired from a career in nursing, she had no idea that her new life as a volunteer would lead her right back into healthcare.

Home to stay

(ARA) - The aging population in the country is growing by the minute. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 the number of individuals ages 65 and up is expected to be twice as large as in 2000 -- growing to 71.5 million -- and representing nearly 20 percent of the population.

Ignoring Diabetes is Risky Business

(ARA) - Are you taking risks with your life without even knowing it? You may be one of the nearly 6 million Americans who have type 2 diabetes and don't even know it.

Living wills protect you at all ages, stages of life

(ARA) - "People act as if death is contagious. It's not contagious, you know. Death is as natural as life," so said Morrie Schwartz in the 1997 best-seller by Mitch Albom, "Tuesdays with Morrie." The popular biography made death seem almost accessible given Morrie's comfort level talking about it. Yet, most people still avoid the topics of death and dying.

Boomers join the green movement with natural light

(ARA) - Older Americans who add more natural light to their living quarters when they move or remodel benefit from improved vision and mood in a safer environment. And daylighting, which utilizes no energy and carries no ongoing costs, is another benefit to the pocketbook of boomers on fixed incomes.

Five Tips for Retirement Planning in a Challenging Economy

(ARA) - "What do I do now?" This is the question that is being asked by everyone from baby boomers on the cusp of retirement to 20-somethings who have just started their retirement savings. Today's volatile market has left everyone in the dark.

Irregular heartbeat may be your body's warning bell

(ARA) - The economy's ups and downs are enough to make anyone's heart skip a beat. But those occasional irregular heartbeats, flutters, slow beats or moments when your heart races may actually be a warning sign of something even more serious than the recession.

Tech Talk And Innovation  (top)

How do you run younger for longer?

(ARA) - How do you run younger for longer? Do you work in the garden every Saturday? Do you participate in marathons twice a year? Maybe you play with your children after work each day. Whatever it is that keeps you youthful and performing at your best, it's time to share your story.

8 ways to protect you and your family online

(ARA) - In this day and age, we all have to be careful about how we share information online. Browsing the Web is the single most popular activity on the PC -- with both the time people spend on the Web and the range of things they can do continuing to grow. With social networking sites, online shopping, and online banking becoming more common and convenient, the risk of fraud or identity theft continues to grow. This kind of activity is on the rise every year.

Simple car-care tips for gals on a budget

(ARA) - For many of the 49.7 million single women in the U.S., car care can be a pain. Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility and it's sometimes hard to know what needs a mechanic's attention. For a gal on a budget, calling an auto repair shop for everything just isn't an option. Lucky for car owners today, there are simple things anyone can do to help maintain their car.

Tips to help grads get the edge on competition

(ARA) - As the recession continues to take its toll, college grads have to work harder to stand out. Businesses expect to hire 22 percent fewer recent grads in 2009, according to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Competition for available jobs is fierce, even among candidates armed with a college degree.

Spend money to save money

(ARA) - Sometimes you have to spend money to save money. The average household spends about $2,000 on energy bills every year. If you switched to appliances and lighting products that are Energy Star rated, you could save $75 a year in energy costs.

Smartphones: From Geeky Luxury to Money-saving Necessity

(ARA) - Americans are cutting costs in many areas of their lives -- but not, it seems, when it comes to staying connected. While the overall mobile phone industry, like most others, is feeling the recession's effects, smartphone sales are booming.

Travel smarter this summer

(ARA) - Despite a battered economy, most of us aren't ready to give up summer travel.

Back to Basics at the Pump

(ARA) - For most drivers, filling up at the pump is an automatic routine. But considering that cars are typically one of our largest investments, it's important to remember the way we take care of them can mean the difference between trouble-free driving and costly repairs.

Personal Health Records Put Consumers in Control

(ARA) - Barb Kerecz is a busy woman. The Connecticut-based working mother of five has a lot of organizing and record keeping to do to keep household chaos under control. There are forms for everything -- immunization records, sports sign-up sheets, permission slips and other paperwork for her children's activities as well as her own. But there is a resource available that Kerecz relies on to simplify some of the most important documents -- her family's health records.

Techorating Tips for the New Technology in Your Home

(ARA) - In the current economic environment, many people are refocusing their priorities on family and home. Experts say more Americans are creating a home theater experience in their home instead of going out. Perhaps you're thinking about using your tax refund for a new HDTV. Or maybe you're getting a new home theater system in time to invite friends over for the summer baseball season or to enjoy this fall's football games in big-screen style.

Family finds new hope in battling rare disease

(ARA) - Matt and Karen Douglas had only been married for a few years when Matt started exhibiting early symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD). His symptoms started with small, uncontrolled movements, such as his hands twitching when he didn't want them to; but the movements soon worsened and became so severe that Matt was unable to drive his car.

Yearbooks: The original 'social networking' tool

(ARA) - Yearbooks are the original social networking venue. Long before Facebook, twitter.com, IMs, texting and MySpace, yearbooks have connected teens with their friends, their teachers and their school communities. Interactive and timeless, yearbooks tell the story of the year at a particular school, reflecting its richness and diversity.

Americans turn to technology to manage chronic ailments at home

(ARA) - Technology has revolutionized how Americans manage chronic diseases, empowering us to monitor important health indicators in the comfort of our own homes. From monitoring blood pressure and blood oxygen levels to the electronic transmission of health information, technology is helping us take better charge of our own health.

Easy solutions to clean up your digital life

(ARA) - Warm weather signals the time to get clutter under control. A time traditionally spent cleaning out nooks and crannies in the home, this season the trend is to organize your digital world, which as most of us know, can be a huge mess.

Can't Put Off That Tech Purchase? Tips for Getting the Best Deal

(ARA) - Recession or not, some spending simply can't wait. For millions of Americans, it seems that spending on personal technology like laptops is on the list of purchases they can't put off.

Make life easier with little effort

(ARA) - With busy schedules and lives constantly on the go, it's easy to be forgetful. But in today's connected world, with a little help from technology, it is possible to accomplish what you need to with barely a second thought.

From father to son: automotive advice and life lessons

(ARA) - Automobiles often become a special place for parents to bond with their children, whether it's tinkering under the hood, or seated behind the wheel for a test drive.

Travel  (top)

Smart ways summer travelers can cut hotel costs

(ARA) - How does your family plan to save money on summer vacation this year? Driving rather than flying? Maybe carrying all the items you need instead of renting once arriving at your destination? These are all great ways to save! But how do you cut back on one of the biggest, yet totally necessary costs of travel - accommodations?

Tire Tips to Keep Summer Driving Rolling Along

(ARA) - Warm weather, sunshine and lower gas prices may get more motorists on the road this summer. If you'll be among them, now is a good time to prepare your vehicle -- and especially its tires -- for summer road trips.

Vacation locally to save big this summer

(ARA) - With a down economy and the potential for higher gas prices this summer, many Americans are looking to take a more budget-friendly trip. Taking a "staycation," instead of a traditional vacation, is a great option to save money. A staycation means you spend your vacation exploring what your city, county and state have to offer instead of traveling far and spending an excessive amount of money.

How to enjoy your 'staycation' this summer

(ARA) - Has today's economy forced you to reconsider your family's annual summer vacation? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. In fact, a recent USA Today/Gallup Poll reported that 52 percent of respondents who had travel plans now intend to cut back on them in some way.

Getting kids to sleep while on the road

(ARA) - With the summer season upon us, many families will be flocking to the highways to embark on amusement ride-filled vacations, to camp at majestic national parks or to drive across the country to visit grandma and grandpa on the opposite coast. But with all of the excitement and fun away from home come missed naps and overstimulated kids who don't want to sleep at night.

Travel smarter this summer

(ARA) - Despite a battered economy, most of us aren't ready to give up summer travel.

Top Tips for Smart and Safe Travelers

(ARA) - You booked your trip and the excitement for your upcoming vacation increases as you count down the days before your travel adventure starts. But to help ensure your vacation becomes a travel delight and not a travel nightmare, there are some things you should consider prior to takeoff.

Affordable, Comfortable Camping for All

(ARA) - Every year, families across the country head outdoors to enjoy quality time together and appreciate the wonders of nature -- but sometimes the idea of "roughing it" is not as enjoyable for certain members of the family.

Vacation rental homes: an affordable alternative to hotels

(ARA) - With consumers looking to stretch their travel dollar further in today's challenging economy, many are turning to vacation rental homes as an alternative to traditional hotels.

Three Simple Tips for an Affordable Family Camping Trip

(ARA) - When faced with financial challenges like those posed by the recent economic downturn, American families tend to react to their decreased discretionary dollars by getting "back to basics." They pursue different leisure activities and ones that offer quality time that can bring them closer together.

Maintain your health while traveling this summer

(ARA) - Summer has arrived, which means many people are looking forward to traveling on a relaxing vacation. Whether that includes spending a long weekend at the beach, staying close to home with family and friends or jetting off to a unique destination, it's important to remember not to take a vacation from your health.

Summer camp helps youth battle 'nature deficit disorder'

(ARA) - With a growing number of researchers reporting that millions of children suffer from a lack of outdoor exposure and play, summer break can increase parents' concerns about children spending beautiful days in front of the television, computer or gaming station.

How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon

(ARA) - The date is set, the dress is bought and the tuxes are rented -- now you get to plan your first vacation together as husband and wife. Whether your ideal honeymoon is traveling to the Swiss Alps for some mountain fun or relaxing on an exotic beach in the Caribbean, it's a special time you'll never forget. So what do you need to know to plan the perfect honeymoon that goes off without a hitch?

Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle

(ARA) - With vehicles staying on the road longer than ever, the harsh conditions of the daily drive can take their toll over time. Americans spend more than 100 hours a year commuting to and from work according to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. As the amount of time a vehicle stays on the road increases, so does the amount of maintenance required to keep it running.

Summer travel tips

(ARA) - With the summer travel season upon us, people are looking for ways to have fun and get the most out of their trip, while staying within budget.

Five strategies to help you save on summer travel

(ARA) - After a long winter of hard work, inclement weather, schoolbooks and bad news on the economy, who couldn't use a break this summer? The recession probably has many American families reconsidering their summer vacation plans, but with some smart travel strategies, it is possible for the whole family to enjoy a budget-friendly summer getaway.

Trail tips and locations for ATV fun

(ARA) - As the all-terrain vehicle riding season shifts into high gear, the sound of ATVs rolling over rocky hills and cruising down dirt paths is slowly building across the country.

Boomers launch rewarding encore careers as tour guides

(ARA) - Job loss and the lack of new job opportunities are devastating many baby boomers, forcing an unprecedented number to seek early retirement. As a result, the most affluent generation in history now faces an unexpected challenge: making ends meet.

Travel for Less

(ARA) - Despite today's economic woes, people are still traveling; they are just doing so in a much more budget-minded manner. Scouring for deals and methods to cut costs while on vacation has never been more important. One budget-friendly trend has emerged as the solution for those who want to travel for less: vacation home rental.