Patrick Guanciale

A Tuesday night fire & a good nieghbor..............

2012-01-27T03:27:00.001-05:00

Second floor fire, terribly dirty job tearing down the ceilings

with insulation falling all over you.
No one was home, but the cat

Alive with difficult breathing, O2 was administered

After the cat is mobile, a kind neighbored agreed to take the cat into his home

until the owner arrived home.

THAT IS WHAT BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR IS ALL ABOUT!!!!

In person, the best way to market yourself.........

2012-01-25T03:28:00.000-05:00

From Valet:
Confidence is key.
A proper introduction calls for a firm handshake, eye contact and a smile. A good attitude is contagious. It makes it easier to bring up what you're passionate about, and it makes them actually want to listen to what you have to say. And remember to dress the part. What you're wearing is essentially the first impression you give someone, even before you open your mouth.

Practice makes perfect.
Of course, it helps to be an outgoing person, but networking is a skill that can be perfected. Ask a buddy to help you out—have him or her turn to you at unexpected times and play the part of the person you're hoping to speak with. If you can tune out distractions and get your point across succinctly, you're good to go.

Ditch the sales pitch.
Just go for a natural conversation. Show interest in the other person by asking questions about them. This will create authentic opportunities for you to bring up what you do (and what you're looking to do).

Keep it short and sweet.
Nobody wants to be cornered and you don't want to be remembered for commandeering someone's time. This is mingling, so keep the conversation light but relevant. After 15 minutes you should know whether or not this is someone you'll want to follow up with.

And then follow up.
If things went well, you likely exchanged contact info or swapped business cards. Make sure to follow-up the day or two after, with a quick email or note reminding them of your conversation and what you can do for them. This is your opportunity to briefly outline your potential in whatever goal you're looking to accomplish, be it a job opening or collaboration.

Buttoned up, today's history lesson................

2012-01-23T03:24:00.000-05:00

Fearless Fridays...........

2012-01-20T03:17:00.002-05:00

Nicholas Bate has three days of the week correct!

There is not a life jacket large enough for me...........

2012-01-19T03:13:00.001-05:00

Are you emitting sparks...................

2012-01-17T03:09:00.002-05:00

“So many men in this world are going nowhere in particular that when one comes along…who is really and passionately going somewhere, what a stir he communicates to a dull world! We catch sparks of electricity from the very friction of his passage.”
- David Grayson
The Friendly Road

Sean Carpenter relays in a recent post that we are responsible for setting a "spark of electricity" with the following three questions:

What are you going to do today to be that person?
How can you create “sparks of electricity” in your business and personal world?
When will others start saying that about you? Or do they already?

Sean also at the end of his post placed a twist to his theme of building relationships, solving problems and having fun to: Build better relationships. Solve tougher problems. Have more fun…on purpose.

The photo above is a photo of Sean and his mother of whom I was very lucky to meet last month at a company party. Mrs. Carpenter said one thing about her son that I will never forget: "Sean started to read well at a very early age and then stopped for the longest time."

TSA Compliant Cupcake.............

2012-01-16T07:11:00.001-05:00

If you aren't up to speed on what the Transportation Security Administration has labeled Cupcakegate, here's a quick synopsis. Traveler Rebecca Hains of Peabody, Mass., last month had a cupcake confiscated as she passed through airport security at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The TSA maintains the cupcake raised suspicions because it came in a jar and contained "gel-like" frosting that was deemed to have exceeded the 3-ounce limit.

The TSA Compliant Cupcake....
Colgan redesigned the cupcake with security in mind. It's made of basic vanilla bean cake topped with exactly 3 ounces of frosting and packaged in a standard 3-1-1 one-quart see-thru bag. It costs $4 and even comes with its own boarding pass -- and, if you like, comes decorated (see photo) with a Richard Nixon photo and the words "I am not a gel" or other security-related message.

Click here to read the entire Los Angeles Times article.

Kindergarten readiness..............

2012-01-12T07:19:00.004-05:00

Came across an editorial in this morning's Newark Advocate and it really made me think of how parents are preparing their toddlers for school. I realize as many, you just don't drop off your child the first day of school and say "Good Luck". There is a five year prep time for parents to make sure they are ready and being realistic, not enough parents make the effort.

Kindergarten readiness should be priority

Kindergarten really isn't the beginning of a youngster's education. Children begin learning from birth, at home and through avenues other than formal education.

That means some are better prepared than others to begin school. Children who enter kindergarten and first grade without adequate preparation too often fall behind classmates and never catch up.

During the past decade or so, educators have come to understand their work needs to begin before kindergarten, sometimes as early as age 3 in preschool programs. Ohio has a reasonably widespread network of such facilities, certified by the state Department of Education.

But state officials, encouraged by the private sector, want to do better. As a result, the state applied for and is to receive a $70 million federal grant to improve programs that prepare children for kindergarten. ...

The idea behind Ohio's grant proposal is to improve the quality of preschool offerings and to develop better methods of evaluating whether children are ready for kindergarten. ...

Too many Ohio children are left behind before they ever enroll in kindergarten or first grade. Changing that, with or without federal grant help, should be a priority.
-- The (Warren) Tribune Chronicle-- The (Warren) Tribune Chronicle

Cleaning is...............

2012-01-10T16:34:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Tara Murphy for passing this along.

Secret Service "Impressions & Observations"

2012-01-08T04:47:00.000-05:00

Secret Service views of Presidents and First Ladies

Here are snippets from a book of "Impressions & Observations" of Secret Service personnel assigned to guard U.S. Presidents/First Ladies, and Vice Presidents.

JOHN & JACQUELINE KENNEDY : A philanderer of the highest order. **She ordered the kitchen help to save all the left-over wine during State dinners, which was mixed with fresh wine and served again during the next White House occasion.

LYNDON & LADYBIRD JOHNSON: Another philanderer of the highest order. In addition, LBJ was as crude as the day is long.**Both JFK and LBJ kept a lot of women in the White House for extramarital affairs, and both had set up "early warning systems" to alert them if/when their wives were nearby. Both Kennedy & Johnson were promiscuous and oversexed men. **She was either naive or just pretended to "not know" about her husband's many liaisons.

RICHARD & PAT NIXON: A "moral" man but very odd and weird, paranoid, etc. He had a horrible relationship with his family, and in a way, was almost a recluse.**She was quiet most of the time.

SPIRO AGNEW: Nice, decent man, everyone in the Secret Service was surprised about his downfall.

GERALD & BETTY FORD: A true gentlemen who treated the Secret Service with respect and dignity. He had a great sense of humor.. **She drank a lot.

JIMMY & ROSALYN CARTER: A complete phony who would portray one picture of himself to public and very different in private, e..g., would be shown carrying his own luggage, but the suit cases were always empty; he kept empty ones just for photo op's. Wanted the people to see him as pious and a non-drinker, but he and his family drank alcohol a lot. He had disdain for the Secret Service, and was very irresponsible with the "football" nuclear codes. He didn't think it was a big deal and would keep military aides at a great distance. Often does not acknowledge the presence of Secret Service personnel assigned to serve him.**She mostly did her own thing.

RONALD & NANCY REAGAN: The real deal --- moral, honest, respectful, and dignified. They treated Secret Service and everyone else with respect and honor. Thanked everyone all the time. He took the time to know everyone on a personal level. **One "favorite" story which has circulated among the Secret Service personnel was an incident early in his Presidency, when he came out of his room with a pistol tucked on his hip. The agent in charge asked: "Why the pistol, Mr. President?" He replied, "In case you boys can't get the job done, I can help." It was common for him to carry a pistol. When he met with Gorbachev, he had a pistol in his briefcase. Upon learning that Gary Hart was caught with Donna Rice, Reagan said, "Boys will be boys, but boys will not be Presidents." [He obviously either did not know or forgot JFK's and LBJ's sexcapades!] She was very nice but very protective of the President; and the Secret Service was often caught in the middle. She tried hard to control what the President ate, and he would say to the agent "Come on, you gotta help me out." The Reagans drank wine during State dinners and special occasions only; otherwise, they shunned alcohol; the Secret Service could count on one hand the times they were served wine during their "family dinner." For all the fake bluster of the Carters, the Reagans were the ones who lived life as genuinely moral people.

GEORGE H. & BARBARA BUSH: Extremely kind and considerate Always respectful. Took great care in making sure the agents' comforts were taken care of. They even brought them meals, etc. *One time Barbara Bush brought warm clothes to agents standing outside at Kennebunkport; one agent who was given a warm hat, and when he tried to nicely say "no thanks" even though he was obviously freezing, President Bush said "Son, don't argue with the First Lady, put the hat on.." He was the most prompt of the Presidents. He ran the White House like a well-oiled machine.*She ruled the house and spoke her mind.

BILL & HILLARY CLINTON: Presidency was one giant party. Not trustworthy --- he was nice because he wanted everyone to like him, but to him life is just one big game and party. Everyone knows of his sexuality.*She is another phony. Her personality would change the instant cameras were near. She hated with open disdain the military and Secret Service. She was another one who felt people are there to serve her. She was always trying to keep tabs on Bill Clinton.

ALBERT GORE: An egotistical ass, who was once overheard by his Secret Service detail lecturing his only son that he needed to do better in school or he "would end up like these guys" --- pointing to the agents.

GEORGE W. & LAURA BUSH: The Secret Service loved him and Laura Bush.He was also the most physically "in shape" who had a very strict workout regimen. The Bushes made sure their entire administrative and household staff understood to respect and be considerate of the Secret Service. KARL ROVE was the one who was the most caring of the Secret Service in the administration. She was one of the nicest First Ladies, if not the nicest; she never had any harsh word to say about anyone.

BARACK & MICHELLE OBAMA: " Clinton all over again" - hates the military and looks down on the Secret Service. He is egotistical and cunning; looks you in the eye and appears to agree with you, but turns around and does the opposite---untrustworthy. He has temper tantrums. She is a complete bitch, who hates anybody who is not black; hates the military; and looks at the Secret Service as servants.

For guys, a great find is often multiplied..........

2012-01-06T03:03:00.001-05:00

Came across a New York Times article via Valet about how men buy clothes differently from women. Most women find shopping as a social activity. Men find it as a must do event when something is worn out. Men have the tendency to hoard what they like.

This NYT article pretty well describes myself and my closet. Yes my closet is full, but almost every item has an exact mate if not multiple duplication.

My navy blue sweaters are a fine example. I remember years ago traveling with my father when he finally asked "Do you have any other color of sweaters" being tired of seeing me every day in the traditional navy blue, boiled Shetland wool crew.

Last year I had a serious problem, down to one navy Shetland with the elbows patched and the crew neck raveling I found myself in replacement mode. Searching Ebay, retail shopping and direct factory outlets on line throughout the summer proved to be stressful and not fruitful. Finally the sweater was found, true to my specifications and I ordered two.

Why two? I figured if I keep my sweater in good repair and clean it should last 10-12 years. Figuring that I am sixty now, the new sweater will last until I am 70-72 years old. The un-packaged hoarded sweater will last me until when I am 80-84 years old. After this I will no longer be worrying about the sweater, Andrew has directions just to tell me in the nursing home that I am wearing a navy Shetland even though it is a gray cardigan with the funny pockets. I won't know the difference within minutes after I ask the question.

Click here to read the NY Times article, it will appreciate your buying habits.

The legend lives on........................

2012-01-04T03:57:00.000-05:00

BRUNSWICK, Maine – A nearly century-old hunting boot is catching on with a younger generation that sees the utilitarian footwear as hip.

L.L Bean's familiar duck boot with leather uppers and rubber soles — designed for slogging through mud and snow — has become something of a fashion statement owing to its new found popularity on college campuses, the company says. Another reason is new styles, including something Leon Leonwood Bean surely never envisioned in 1912: bright blue and pink leather, new for spring.

Click here to read the complete US Today article about this "Made in America" product.

Thank you to Andrew Guanciale for tweeting this article.

2012 Eliminate debt......................

2012-01-02T06:55:00.002-05:00

2012 GET BACK IN THE BLACK!

Just because our governments can not figure a way to get out of the deep hole of debt, it does not mean personally you can not start digging yourself out during 2012. You have to like your money and being debt free more than your toys!

A little advice from Men's Health:

Strategy 1. Slash Your Expenses
Aim to cut 10 to 15 percent from your monthly expenses. Yes, you can eat more at home, buy a cheaper wine, and clip coupons. But you can also start making phone calls. You'll be surprised at how much you can save by simply asking. Cellphone: The average cellphone owner uses about 422 minutes a month, according to J.D. Power. Yet cell providers often tout 600- and even 900-minute plans as their "most popular." Reducing your allowable minutes from 600 to 450 would save you that magic 10 percent. And if you use less than 400 minutes a month, prepaid plans are always a better deal. Cable or satellite TV: Look for a special introductory offer from a competitor and ask your current provider to beat it. Many companies will ante up a "customer loyalty" discount—ranging from 10 to 25 percent—that's typically good for a year. Utility bill: Older water heaters eat up to 25 percent of the energy you use. Put a $10 water-heater blanket around it and you'll reduce your bill by your target 10 percent. Auto insurance: Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 will save you up to 40 percent. And be sure to mention that you're shopping around; you may find that you're suddenly "eligible" for a reduced rate.

Strategy 2. Wipe Out Your Credit Card Balance
Take the money you save from strategy 1 and apply it to your monthly debt payment. Say you owe $5,000 at 21 percent interest. Paying $100 a month, it'll take almost 10 years to satisfy the debt. Pay $110 a month, though, and you'll finish 2 1/2 years earlier.

And make sure to heed his advice as well:
+Don't schedule automatic payments around due dates: Credit-card companies shift those around, hoping to sock you with a late fee and raise your rate. Another reason to be early is a creepy practice called universal default. "Many companies have a system set up so when you're late on one card, other cards raise their rates, too," says Carmen Wong Ulrich, author of Generation Debt.
+Pay off your highest-interest balances first, and consolidate debt as efficiently as possible through balance transfers. (Look for a permanent rate and no annual fees; visit www.creditcardspecialist.com to find the best deals.) "If your interest rate drops from 20 percent to 10 percent, that's an immediate return," says Nicholas Nicolette, a certified financial planner and the president of the Financial Planning Association.
+Hit the ATM. Starting forcing yourself to keep more hard cash on-hand—studies have shown that people spend 30 percent less when paying with paper, not plastic.

Strategy 3. Budget for the Inevitable
It's happened to everyone: You're sticking to a smart budget, and then bam—your tire blows out or your dishwasher breaks. Suddenly, you're in the red. "We need to move past this idea that these are 'unexpected' bills," says Shannon Plate, author of Degunking Your Personal Finances. "Cars break. Houses break. People break. It has to be part of your budget."

Plate suggests socking away $50 a month for car repairs and another $100 a month for house repairs, assuming you own one. Likewise, set a realistic monthly entertainment budget—for everything from beers after work to poker night with buds—and be a slave to it. Then, at the end of the month, sweep what you didn't spend from all of the above into your emergency fund; financial planners recommend having enough liquid assets to survive 3 to 6 months of unemployment.

A great place to park your rainy-day fund is a high-yield money market. (Visit bankrate.com to find the best rates.) CDs aren't a good idea, because emergency funds need to be available quickly. And resist the urge to dump this money into stocks. "You don't want to expose this money to risk," says Nicolette. "The same conditions that can lead to layoffs also drive down the market."

50 Rules to live your life by.....

2011-12-29T08:11:00.004-05:00

1. Focus on what really counts 2. You can’t please everyone 3. Choose friends wisely 4. Tell people what you’re really thinking. People are not mind readers. 5. Understand that you can only control yourself 6. Learn a new skill this weekend. Repeat! 7. Identify your preferred form of expression 8. Self-motivation is not optional. Get some! 9. Find great ideas then change the context 10. Wake up claiming the best day ever 11. Ditch the TV for more time 12. Do what’s in front of you 13. Set a limit for having unfinished tasks 14. Speak your truth 15. Spend more time with the right people 16. Set short deadlines for decisions 17. Consider your appearance and proper grooming 18. Reward yourself 19. Take ownership don’t blame others for your situation 20. Let the little things go 21. Learn how to negotiate a better deal on everything 22. Know your top 5 values 23. Simplify by eliminating anything that’s not essential 24. Start meaningful conversations 25. Know what you want 26. Limit what you borrow 27. Get the important work done first 28. Never be dissatisfied with what you have 29. Lay the groundwork for some future fun 30. Honor your commitments 31. Don’t settle for anything less than excellence 32. Create a routine and stick to it 33. Ignore the unimportant 34. Make it manageable 35. Be careful when you make comparisons 36. Character counts! 37. Never say, that’s not my job 38. Get organized 39. Schedule small tasks for a given time of the day 40. Don’t underestimate the power of support 41. Don’t browse online as soon as you get home 42. Get enough sleep 43. Speak less. Listen more. 44. Find gym and start going regularly 45. Pay attention to what you’re putting off for tomorrow 46. Stop caring about mistakes, learn from them 47. Get your financial house in order 48. No Cheating! 49. Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do 50. Know the difference between affirmation and information and be careful receiving too much of either

Officially stolen from Kurt Harden.

From the Secret List.............

2011-12-27T03:51:00.000-05:00

From the Secret List:
Hey,
Here is an update from FDNY on the Firefighters seriosly injured in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, on Dec. 19. As you know, Firefighter Robert Wiedmann, 38, from Rescue 2 received second- and third- degree burns on more than 50 percent of his body - including his face, hands and head - while fighting that two-alarm fire on Prospect Place. Firefighter James Gersbeck, 52, from Rescue 2 also was seriously injured in the fire."Everyone's working to get Rob back to his regular self," said his brother, Douglas Wiedmann. "He's an excellent firefighter and certainly is our hero."Dr. Roger Yurt, Director of the Burn Center, said he expects Firefighter Wiedmann to be in the hospital for about six to eight weeks, having approximately one surgery a week with a long road to recovery after sustaining burns to over 40 percent of his body - including his head, face and back.Doctors are providing a positive outlook saying that while most people in a similar situation would need to be put in a medically inducted coma, Wiedmann remains psychologically and physically strong. "He's very strong," he said of the 14-year veteran of the FDNY. "We've seen his psychological strength and his ability to deal with this." He is alert and communicative and he mouths words or spells out words using a board."He's always asking how we are; he's more worried about us than himself," he said.Dr. Yurt said he does not expect Firefighter Gersbeck, a 25-year veteran of the FDNY, to have a long hospital stay, noting that he has second and third degree burns that will probably heal on their own with the proper care.
Speaking of both Firefighters Wiedmann and Gersbeck, he said, "They are truly the bravest and two of the best firefighters I know."Both men also acknowledged the generosity and kindness of the members of Rescue 2, who have visited the hospital and supported the family since the fire."We can't express what your support means to us," Mr. Wiedmann said. The members of Rescue 2 are hosting several blood drives throughout the five boroughs over the coming weeks and more information will be posted here and on our home page as soon as it's available.
Take Care-BE CAREFUL.
BillyG
The Secret List 12-22-11 / 1722 Hours
www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com

What Christmas is all about............

2011-12-25T01:56:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas..............

2011-12-24T03:03:00.000-05:00

Spending what you do not have...................

2011-12-23T02:42:00.000-05:00

I look forward to D.C.'s journals posted by Kurt Harden. This portion was written on December 20, 1931 and indicates to me not a whole lot is different from 80 years ago. Click here to read 77 of D.C.'s journal entries, may be the best book you read this weekend.

Solving problems, building relationships & having fun............

2011-12-22T06:55:00.002-05:00

Guru Sean Carpenter's Christmas message:

Santa and technology & dancing......................

2011-12-19T06:45:00.003-05:00

Stolen from Kurt Harden

I have only had a couple of chances during my adult life to dance to Christmas Music.
This is the first song I would choose.

Stolen from Steve Layman.

Licking County TweetUp at Velvet Ice Cream....

2011-12-17T06:26:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday, I attended what I would consider one of my top three social events of 2011. On my way home, several photos in my phone I kept thinking about the great blog post I could write.

Master blogger and good friend Sean Carpenter the next morning posted what I consider a masterpiece of reporting the event.

Please click here to read "The "Scoop" on Being Successful".

Great job to @VelvetIceCream for being such a great host and @seancarp for your blog.

Perfect gift for your dog..............

2011-12-15T16:47:00.003-05:00

The Pet Tracker, which uses advanced GPS location technology to track and find your pet. If he/she escapes or strays from the home, use your mobile device or computer to find him/her and bring your pet home safely.

Click here for this outstanding gift.

Can you imagine strapping this to your child at the State Fair, OSU Football game or other large venues?

2011-12-14T03:37:00.001-05:00

Shopping made easy, my official gift suggestions for Christmas 2011. Click on the item and order: Perfect Meatloaf (already purchased one), Gift for her, Gift for him, Gift for your pet, Gift for Mail person, Gift for office assistant, Gift for secret affair partner, Gift for boss, Gift for me.

Order today, have plenty of time to wrap and deliver. Check out Asseenontv.com for such a large selection of practical and useful gifts that you can not usually find in our local stores.

Kurt's gift suggestions

Men's Health suggestions

Valet's gift guide

12 Ways to slash holiday stress.........

2011-12-13T01:00:00.001-05:00

1. Get Out from Behind the Camera

2. Knock Out the Greed

3. Simplify Your Shopping

4. Find a Gift that Earns You Sex

5. Write a Brag-Free Family Letter

6. Stay Sane Traveling by Plane

7. Survive Annoying Relatives

8. Sidestep the Holiday Blues

9. Don't Watch "It's a Wonderful Life"

10. Dodge the Holiday Weight Gain

11. Hit All the Parties (Politely)

12. Catch the Bowl Games that Count

Click here to the read the theory behind each reason.

14 Ways to win over your in-laws.........

2011-12-11T12:34:00.003-05:00

Click here to find out more from Men's Health:

1. Be an Anthropologist

2. Never say "Estate Planning"

3. Decide to be Devoted

4. Laugh at their Jokes

5. Subdue the Yelling

6. Inquire about their People

7. Take their Names

8. Go to Med School

9. Remember your Gender

10. Be their Defense Attorney

11. Remember your Spine

12. Tell your Story

13. Don't let them see you Lying Down

14. The Greats don't loose Focus

Dominick the Italian Christmas Donkey........

2011-12-07T17:33:00.003-05:00

Fitting for my 700th post:

Thank you to Tim Fitterer for passing this along!

Christmas tree fires........

2011-12-05T07:02:00.003-05:00

The video belows shows the difference of keeping the moisture content of your live Christmas Tree at 100% and below 50% as most people do. Please make sure to turn up the volume and watch the timer. You will hear the glass ornaments exploding, kind of sounds alike another holiday and the use of firecrackers.

This video was produced by NFPA.

LICKING COUNTY CHRISTMAS TOURS

2011-12-02T03:49:00.000-05:00

THIS WEEKEND, START THE HOLIDAYS WITH SOME FUN

DOWNTOWN NEWARK, OHIO'S COOKIE WALK

Friday 4-8pm, stroll around the Court House Square with Santa Claus, entertainment throughout the evening, buy a ticket and pick up your cookies at many of the participating merchants and organizations.

GRANVILLE, OHIO'S CANDLELIGHT WALKING TOUR

Saturday 1-9pm, the Village Business District is ready for your family to tour the many shops, enjoy the entertainment throughout the day and evening indoors and out. You will enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations.

Handle being out of your depth.........

2011-12-01T02:31:00.002-05:00

Great advice from the Art of Manliness:

How to Handle Being Out of Your Depth: 6 Tips from a Con Man

1. Relax and Project Confidence
The feeling of being out of place consumes your thoughts. As you look around the room, it feels like your inner dialogue is being broadcasted from your forehead, and that everyone else is focusing in on you.
2. Look the Part
While not every job and situation calls for an actual uniform, every event does have a standard of dress, and by adhering to it, you’ll automatically seem more like a guy who knows what’s he’s doing.
3. Play Catch-Up Like a Mad Man
If you’ve been thrown into a situation where you don’t have the skills or knowledge to perform up to par, then you’re going to need to play catch-up every spare second you get.
4. Take Notes
No matter how much direct or indirect research you do, don’t rely on your memory alone to store all that information. Instead, jot down notes that might prove useful down the line.
5. Turn on the Charm
If you’re an irritating boor who’s messing up all the time, you’re going to get the boot. But if you’re polite and good-humored, people will give you the benefit of the doubt and lots of second-chances.
6. Close Your Yap and Observe
The best thing you can do when you’re in a situation where you’re out of your depth is to be extremely conservative with both your actions and your words. Say little and listen a lot.

Click here to read the complete blog post, I needed this and within five minutes of reading, I learned a lot.

Make cents to me..................

2011-11-29T06:29:00.001-05:00

"Wealth, like a tree, grows from a tiny seed. The first copper you save is the seed from which your tree of wealth shall grow. The sooner you plant that seed the sooner shall the tree grow. And the more faithfully you nourish and water that tree with consistent savings, the sooner may you bask in contentment beneath its shade."-George S. Clason, The Richest Man in Babylon

Stolen from Steve Layman, click here to check out Steve's blog.

RIP Frederik Meijer

2011-11-28T06:37:00.002-05:00

Frederik Meijer, the Grand Rapids billionaire credited with inventing the supercenter store format in 1962 that made his Meijer chain a successful Midwest retailer and was copied by Sam Walton for his chain Wal-Mart, died Friday at age 91.

"As the chain grew, it caught the attention of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton who tried to meet with Mr. Meijer in the 1970s to talk about buying the Meijer business. Not wanting to offend Walton by saying no, Mr. Meijer said he was too busy.

Had Walton succeeded in buying the Meijer chain, it would have dramatically altered the course of Grand Rapids’ economy, which grew over the following decades with Meijer and other major local companies.

Even if its founder was irritated, Wal-Mart never hid the fact the one-stop-shopping center format that catapulted it into retail dominance was based on Meijer’s innovative concept."

Click her to read more about Fred Meijer's history.

Santa is coming to town...........

2011-11-22T17:50:00.004-05:00

Santa Clause will help everyone in Licking County light up the Court House in

Downtown Newark, Ohio Friday November 25th at 6:00pm.

Still one of the best reasons why to live and work in Licking County, Ohio.

check out http://www.courthouselighting.com/

Small Business Saturday, 11/26/11

2011-11-22T04:13:00.000-05:00

Pledge your support for Small Business Saturday®The 2nd annual Small Business Saturday® is
a day dedicated to supporting small businesses
on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year.
On November 26, we’re asking millions of Americans to Shop Smallsm at their favorite local stores and help fuel the economy. When we all shop small, it will be huge.

Behind the voice of airports and subways..........

2011-11-21T07:31:00.002-05:00

You’ve heard her voice across the world, but you’ve probably never acknowledged that there’s a face to go with it. Carolyn Hopkins is the soothing yet authoritative disembodied voice in the sky, booming from public address systems in airports and train stations in dozens of countries.

She delivers words of welcome, safety advice, and sometimes even that dreaded message that your flight is delayed or canceled. And surprisingly, the message isn’t concocted in some faceless laboratory with robotic voices. Instead, Hopkins works the magic of her voiceovers from a modest office in northern Maine.Read more:

“Traveling can be such a bummer these days that people need a friendly voice,” Hopkins tells CBS. And more than 200 airports around the world, as well as the New York City subway, have adopted the 63-year-old’s voice as their official spokeswoman, proving that we all want a little comfort and consistency while traveling.

Hopkins is surely one of the most listened-to voices in the world, secretly famous yet always respected. The next time you’re in a foreign airport, keep an ear on the sky – you might just hear Hopkins’ voice welcoming you. She’ll make you feel at home, no matter how far from it you may be.

Found on @TIME via Twitter

Media Gone Wild....slashing Abe Lincoln

2011-11-18T06:21:00.002-05:00

Stolen from Steve Layman's blog, I read it everyday.

beginners guide to frank sinatra

2011-11-16T05:56:00.002-05:00

To Take the Train had a great post on the best albums of Frank Sinatra.

Click here for the quick reading post.

BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN ITALY

2011-11-14T06:18:00.001-05:00

Thank to Gina and Robin for passing this along.

American Mustache Institute removes endorsement

2011-11-12T06:22:00.003-05:00

Click here to read about the AMI removal of Herman Cain's endorsement.

About AMI
Founded in 1965 and committed to battling a demonstrated discriminatory culture against people of Mustached American heritage, the American Mustache Institute is the world’s leading facial hair advocacy organization and think tank protecting the rights of, and fighting discrimination against, Mustached Americans by promoting the growth, care, and culture of the lower nose forest.

Broadly considered the bravest organization in the history of mankind behind only the U.S. military and the post-Jim Henson Muppets, the Institute serves as the ACLU of the downtrodden Mustached American people, making its headquarters in the City of St. Louis, as it is home to the world’s largest mustache – the Gateway Arch.

AMI continues to battle negative stereotyping that has accompanied the mustache since those glory years of the 1970s – the peak of mustache acceptance – fighting to create a climate of acceptance, understanding, flavor saving, and upper lip warmth for all mustached Americans alike.

Read the detailed history of the American Mustache Institute and the long-standing pattern of discrimination here.

This information found by following @TIME on Twitter.

How to stay young.......

2011-11-11T07:40:00.002-05:00

Stolen from Steve Layman:

From the mind that was George Carlin, comes a list:

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. ” An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” And the devil’s name is Alzheimer’s.
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it’s family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don’t take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, butby the moments that take our breath way.

11/11/11=CORDUROY

2011-11-10T07:23:00.003-05:00

The Most Important Date In History: 111111
The time has come.The Wales are aligning.The date which most closely resembles Corduroy, EVER,111111is upon us!Rejoice. Rejoice! Our day has come.

To commemorate this momentous date and honor thy Corduroy, many happenings are occurring. Of foremost importance will be the 6th, perhaps, maybe and probably likely the final Annual Grand 111111 Meeting. As this is surely our Grandest hour this will be our Grandest Meeting and marked by unparalleled grandeur at a location befitting our most glorious fabric. We shall convene at the magnificent Refectory at The Desmond Tutu Center on 10th Avenue in New York, NY. There, these activities will likely occur:

• Dark Secret Rituals (No photography please)

• Presentation of Awards for Exemplary Usage of Corduroy

• Awards for Best Dressed

• A person (to be determined, and of some gravitas) to deliver a keynote address

• Installation of Corduroy Messiah (child – still at large! – that shall turn 11 on 111111)

• Singing, Dancing and Poetry inspired by Corduroy

• An open bar with Beer and Wines• Additional epic and historic things

“Doors” will open for Meeting check-in at 7:30 pm and the Meeting will commence, promptly, at 8:11 pm. We will (attempt to) adjourn at the most auspicious time of 11:11 pm.

Tickets can be purchased here. As we expect reCord attendance please purchase your admission as soon as possible. This will allow us to accommodate everyone comfortably.

Please note: the Two Item Rule is NOT in EFFECT! We are instituting a THREE ITEM RULE! That means, you must wear THREE (3) items of Corduroy. You can do it!

Also—details are accumulating regarding something called: The 11 Days of Corduroy. This will commence on November 1, or 111, a date which closely resembles Corduroy. (Details regarding this extraordinary initiative to follow, here.)

Additionally, we are thrilled to announce the release of the first official Corduroy Appreciation Club pant. In collaboration with Betabrand, makers of Cordarounds™, 111 pairs of pants will be released on 10/11/11. Before they are consumed by the less-appreciative public, a limited time pre-sale for CAC Members is happening right now. We urge you to seize this rare and extraordinary opportunity!

In other Cord-related news: we recommend this handy resource for those looking to outfit themselves for the 11 Days of Corduroy, the Grandest Date and beyond. Also, we have restocked Membership Materials and some popular tie colors. These updates will be reflected on the website—once we figure out how to do that.

Hail the Wale!
Quite Cordially,The Corduroy Appreciation Club

JOHN LENNON "I WANT TO BE HAPPY"

2011-11-07T08:02:00.002-05:00

ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CLIPS I HAVE WATCHED

2011-11-05T09:22:00.002-04:00

Thousands of birds dancing!

Murmuration from Sophie Windsor Clive on Vimeo.

Thank you to Brittany Nichols for passing this along.

Preparing for the Lighting

2011-11-02T09:38:00.001-04:00

Clay's Electric has started to install the Holiday decorations on the Licking County Court House. Make sure to schedule the evening of November 25th for the lighting ceremony orchestrated by Santa Clause.
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DO HOLLOWEEN CANDY BARS GO STALE?

2011-10-31T07:37:00.003-04:00

More info at Slate.com

Yes, but it might last until next Halloween or beyond. Candy bars are high in sugar and low in moisture, both of which help to prevent microbial growth. Pure chocolate can last for two years or more without presenting any acute health risks, but it’s likely to change in texture and become less appetizing after about 12 months. Given enough time, some bars could even become so dry and hard as to be inedible (or at least a danger to your teeth). More serious, nondental health risks are very unlikely, however.

THE REAL ANSWER TO CARRY ME THROUGH THE REST OF MY LIFE!
The white spots or haze that sometimes appear on old chocolate bars is known among chocolatiers as “blooming,” and it’s harmless to your health. Blooming isn’t mold, as some candy-lovers might think, but rather a splotch of fat or sugar that has risen to the surface. Fat blooming is caused by fluctuations in temperature, while sugar blooming is caused by condensation and changes in humidity. To avoid the whitening—which affects a candy's appearance and its texture—store your candy bars in a cool, dry place away from the sun.

SOME THOUGHTS ON HOW TO CELEBRATE HOLLOWEEN

2011-10-29T08:15:00.001-04:00

BABY BOOMER HOME BUYING TRENDS

2011-10-26T06:26:00.000-04:00

"Hipster Cop" at Occupy Wall Street

2011-10-25T03:55:00.000-04:00

He was dubbed "The Hipster Cop" a little over a week ago, a few days after pictures trickled online of a plainclothes detective—dressed more like an actor from Dead Poet's Society than NYPD Blue—patrolling the Occupy Wall Street protest.

Then the Hipster Cop Twitter jokes started: "He only uses pepper spray ironically." "Sure I have a nightstick...I bought it on svpply.com."

And just yesterday, The New York Times ran the first interview with Rick Lee, a 45-year-old community affairs detective with an addiction to Ralph Lauren, a.k.a. The Hipster Cop. Or rather, a.k.a. The Country Gentleman. (You'll understand after you read this interview.)

Click here for the New York Times article.

Derek Holland "I wanted to show them I belong here"

2011-10-24T08:11:00.003-04:00

"I wanted to show that I belong here," he said.

"This was a dream. I wanted to pitch in the World Series and get a win."

Click here to read a great article on last night's game.

Midland Theatre-Huey Lewis and the News

2011-10-24T06:39:00.003-04:00

Excellent concert last night at the Midland Theatre, large and excited crowd.

Photo by Cultural Offering

Beggar's Night Schedule for Licking County

2011-10-21T08:03:00.002-04:00

Per the Licking County Visitors & Conventions Bureau

October 27, 2011
Buckeye Lake - 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Granville - 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Hanover - 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Heath - 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Newark - 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Safe Trick-or-Treat on the Courthouse Square - 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, Linkedin etc.

2011-10-20T05:04:00.003-04:00

Where is Kopchak Road?

2011-10-19T07:45:00.003-04:00

Last night watching the news of the wild animal chase in Muskingum County, I imagine not too many know where Kopchak Road is located. Just south of Dillon State Park and east of Gratiot in Licking County. I don't how fast a hungry bear, mountain lion etc. can travel, but by short cut I imagine it is less than a half day's travel to a populated area.

Click here for an article by newarkadvocate.com.

BREW & WINE FEST

2011-10-18T01:20:00.000-04:00

CALL THE CHAMBER FOR TICKETS 740-345-9757

50 Mistakes Dudes Make While Getting Dressed

2011-10-17T03:10:00.000-04:00

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL FIFTY

EATING

2011-10-15T06:54:00.002-04:00

Thank you to who ever posted this on Facebook.

WARREN BUFFETT

2011-10-13T13:30:00.004-04:00

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Billionaire investor Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway(BRK.B_), Wednesday revealed a few more details about his annual income and tax bill:

•Buffett's adjusted gross income last year was $62,855,038
•Buffett's taxable income last year was $39,814,784
•Buffett paid $15,300 in payroll taxes last year
•Buffett's federal tax bill came to $6,923,494, or 17.4% of his taxable income last year

Click here for more information on Warren Buffett wanting to raise the tax rate.

10 GREAT FALL DATE IDEAS

2011-10-11T06:11:00.002-04:00

From the Art of Manliness:

Football Game

Pumpkin Carving

Haunted House

State Fair (Fairfield County Fair)

Halloween Parade

Hayride

Foliage Drive

Apple Cider

Ghost Hunt

Weenie Roast

Click here to find out more.

Fallen Firefighter Foundation 5K Run

2011-10-08T09:07:00.001-04:00

Beautiful fall morning for a 5K run sponsored by Newark Firefighters Local 109. 100 runners/walkers raising over $1,500 for a Foundation dedicated to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

"Everyone goes home"
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

HE CHANGED AN ENTIRE WORLD

2011-10-05T20:34:00.001-04:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

LETTER WRITING

2011-10-05T03:45:00.002-04:00

OCTOBER FIRST MARKS THE END OF ANOTHER YEAR

2011-10-03T05:04:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday marked the end of another season, socks are back on except for an occasional over 60 degree day or a stay at home Holiday. April 1st can not come fast enough.

As I struggled putting the Gold Told Windsors (always remember the "W" is for wool) on, I thought about wool and what it means to me.

During the past month on mildly cool mornings I would wear one of three cotton sweaters I own, no substance and somewhat heavy. Today is the first day to wear a Shetland Wool sweater, light, but warm.

All year round I wear worsted wool trousers, suits and blazers, they don't wrinkle, easy to brush off and the weight hangs well. Plus no static cling!

God would have not created sheep if he meant for sweaters, socks and suits not to be wool. Someone has to make October 1st, National Sheep Day.

To all sheep: Thank you guys!

Click here for one of my old post "RIP" about going sockless and excuses why to go sockless.

THIS WEEKEND IN LICKING COUNTY...

2011-09-30T06:28:00.004-04:00

1. Final Friday celebration in Downtown Newark, by one ticket and stop by all the stores with a different local pizza shop for a slice of pizza.

2. Utica Homecoming through Saturday night, opens at 11am and located at the old Utica Elementary School grounds.

3. Pumpkinpalooza, Lynd's Fruit Farm on Morse Road, Pataskala. Lots of fun from 10am-4pm.

4. Happy Apple Days, north of Granville on SR 661 in Fredonia.

5. Howloween at the Park, Kraner Nature Reserve 6-9pm, sponsored by the Ohio Nature Education. Travel Linville Road to Fairview Road.

6. Open House, stop by the Guanciale Group's open houses on Sunday from 2-4pm.

You can make yourself a busy schedule for the weekend with little expense!

HAVING FUN............

2011-09-28T08:15:00.002-04:00

Stolen from Steve Layman this morning:

THE DAYS ARE GETTING SHORTER

2011-09-26T06:29:00.002-04:00

From long time friend Sean Carpenter:

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think,

all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read,

and all the friends I want to see."

-John Burrough

Check out Sean's complete post: The Days are Getting Shorter

College Hockey Tournament

2011-09-24T21:35:00.000-04:00

Lou + Gib Reese Ice Arena, Newark, Ohio. 2011 ACHA tournament: Northern Kentucky, Wheeling Jesuit, Denison University, West Liberty and Wittenberg.

Should have worn socks.
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Hebron Music + Arts Festival

2011-09-24T14:48:00.001-04:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

2011-09-23T07:03:00.003-04:00

Sometimes it takes a little imagination to come up with a birthday gift for Andrew Guanciale. Several months ago, the west half of Cornell's Clothing on North Park Place in Downtown Newark, Ohio owned by Steve Layman was remodeled. The sign from the original Bazaar's location was removed and kept by Robin Pierce. The Bazaar was known as a gentleman's bar, men only. I remember during high school, men would stop by for lunch with a drink and then after work. When ever you walked by and the door would open the cigar smoke would fill the sidewalk.

We purchased the "A" which still had it's 60 year old glass tubes and contracted with Kessler Sign of Zanesville to rework the transformer and what ever else they do to make an old florescent light work. By the smile and thank you, this was a good one of a kind gift that will last a long time and offer some stories in the future. Twelve months to go to figure out next year's gift.

Thank you to Scottamus' from Flickr photo of the old sign.

BACK OFF, MOM!

2011-09-22T09:00:00.001-04:00

FROM TIME MAGAZINE:
Parents, if you want your kids to get more exercise, you'd be wise to get out of their way.
In a new study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, researchers sought to observe how kids play in parks. Their overarching goal was to help park designers create public spaces that would better entice kids to run around and exercise. But along the way, the authors discovered something else: the single biggest barrier to children's physical activity had less to do with park design itself and more to do with the hovering presence of a parent.

Children whose parents hung around monitoring them closely were only about half as likely to engage in high levels of physical activity as kids whose parents granted more freedom, the researchers found.

Click here to read more.

SENIORS AND COMPUTERS

2011-09-19T07:03:00.006-04:00

Picked this up from Kurt Harden this morning. Last week during a seminar, the speaker said a significant percentage of Ipad purchasers are senior citizens. After a google of the subject, they believe it to be about 10% of the 2010 Ipad sales.

HOW TO HAVE FUN IN A HELMET....

2011-09-15T06:11:00.003-04:00

From 2011 Esquire Car Awards :

Before we could name the Car of the Year, we had to drive the seven finalists as fast as we could. So late this summer, early one morning, we caravaned to the Monticello Motor Club in Monticello, New York, a private racetrack 90 miles outside Manhattan. We took turns driving each of the cars around a section of the 4.1-mile track, nailing the straightaways, weaving through cones, and squealing around turns, and hoping the guys who loaned us the cars wouldn't notice what we were doing to the tires and brakes — all while our instructor alternately yelled, "Throttle! Throttle! Throttle!" or "Brake! Brake! Brake!" The MMC boasts members like Jeff Gordon and Jerry Seinfeld. You can be a member, too, as long as you have $30,000 to $125,000 for the initiation fee and another few thousand in annual dues. Or get a one-day trial pass for $2,500. Racing season runs mid-April through mid-November, which means you still have a couple of months left to get out there. Maybe they'll give you a discount. —Peter Martin

Check out 2011 Esquire Car of the Year-2012 Audi A-7

SARTORIAL KNOWLEDGE SO YOU DON'T LOOK DUMB

2011-09-13T07:10:00.001-04:00

THANK YOU TO "PUT this ON"

Below are twenty-five pieces of vital information that every man over 14 in the Western world should know. Every man. No excuses. Seriously. Seriously.

1.Unbutton the bottom button of your jacket. It’s not intended to be buttoned.
2.Same goes for your vest.
3.Remove the tags on the sleeves of your jacket before you wear it.
4.Jackets sometimes come with white basting thread on their shoulders or holding closed their vents. Remove this thread before wearing the jacket.
5.Jacket pockets are intended to be opened. Use a small scissor or seam ripper.
6.More than three jacket buttons is never appropriate for anything.
7.On a three-button coat, buttoning the top button is optional, and some lapels are rolled so as to make the top button ornamental. In other words: if buttoning the top button seems wrong, it is.
8.Brown shoes, brown belt. Black shoes, black belt.
9.Belt or suspenders. Never belt and suspenders.
10.Your jacket sleeve should be short enough to show some shirt cuff - about half an inch.
11.Your pants should end at your shoes without puddling. A slight or half break means that there is one modest inflection point in the front crease. If your pants break both front and back or if they break on the sides, they’re too long.
12.Your coat should follow and flatter the lines of your upper body, not pool around them. You should be able to slip a hand in to get to your inside breast pocket, but if the jacket’s closed and you can pound your heart with your fist, it’s too big.
13.When you buy a suit or sportcoat, it should be altered to fit by a tailor. This will cost between $25 and $100.
14.Your tie should reach your belt line - it shouldn’t end above your belt or below it.
15.Your tie knot should have a dimple.
16.Only wear a tie if you’re also wearing a suit or sportcoat (or, very casually, a sweater). Shirt, tie and no jacket is the wedding uniform of a nine-year-old.
17.The only men who should wear black suits during the day are priests, undertakers, secret agents, funerals attendees and yokels.
18.Cell phone holsters are horrible.
19.So are square-toed shoes.
20.Never wear visible socks with shorts.
21.Or any socks with sandals.
22.If your shirt is tucked in, you should be wearing a belt (or suspenders, if you’re wearing a jacket as well, or your trousers should have side adjusters and no belt loops).
23.Flip flops are great for the pool and the beach and not great for anything else. (Some say this is a matter of taste. We agree. If you have any taste, you will only wear flip-flops at the beach or pool.)
24.Long ties are not appropriate with a tuxedo.
25.Never wear polyester outside of the gym or theme parties.

If you see someone violating one of these basic principles, feel free to send them our way. We’ll straighten them out.

9/11 MEMORIAL SERVICE

2011-09-11T11:01:00.001-04:00

Downtown Newark, Ohio
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9/11 INITIAL FDNY DISPATCH

2011-09-11T07:39:00.000-04:00

"EVERYONE GOES HOME"

THIS WEEKEND'S PLANS IN DOWNTOWN NEWARK

2011-09-09T07:46:00.003-04:00

FRIDAY
After work stop by the Farmer's Market on South Third Street, locally grown produce and great deserts.

SATURDAY
Lite the Night car show with 500 classic cars. Benefits the Christmas lighting of the Licking County Court House

SUNDAY
11:00am, Memorial Service at the Court House gazebo for the victims of the September 11, 2001 attack on our country.

If I was running for public office, this is where I would be. But since I am not, I can enjoy all three events and not have to kiss babies and shake every one's dirty hands.

NFD CAPTAIN RETIRES

2011-09-07T19:38:00.001-04:00

After 31.5 years with the Newark Fire Department Captain Greg "Roy" Keefe works his last 24 hour shift before retirement. Best of luck!
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ADD ONE MORE TEST FOR SCHOOL TESTING

2011-09-07T05:45:00.001-04:00

I believe in the required testing of our students, many people look at it as punishment, but I think the ultimate results provides everyone with a decent scale of a school system's measurement. The system of state wide testing will never be perfect especially when you have parents, teachers, administrators and students involved.

Over this past weekend I was "around town" and noticed many students that would be placed in the overweight category. It is kind of embarrassing, no one needs to order two Fried Breads at the Newark Earthworks Pow-Wow concession stand.

My proposal: all students yearly should be tested for physical condition. A student should be tested by walking three miles within a certain time limit every year. This phase of the state testing would not be a speed race and should not be broken down into different categories of weight, size and age.

Maybe even the parents will help promote their child by helping with conditioning, eating healthy and practicing. I would bet most Mall Walkers could beat many of the student's times.

Click her to read the Telegraph's article "Parents Think Their Overweight Children Are Normal Size".

WHY WE CAN NOT WEAR WHITE AFTER LABOR DAY

2011-09-06T05:54:00.001-04:00

From Time Magazine:

"Instead, other historians speculate, the origin of the no-white-after–Labor Day rule may be symbolic. In the early 20th century, white was the uniform of choice for Americans well-to-do enough to decamp from their city digs to warmer climes for months at a time: light summer clothing provided a pleasing contrast to drabber urban life. "If you look at any photograph of any city in America in the 1930s, you'll see people in dark clothes," says Scheips, many scurrying to their jobs. By contrast, he adds, the white linen suits and Panama hats at snooty resorts were "a look of leisure."

Labor Day, celebrated in the U.S. on the first Monday of September, marked the traditional end of summer; the well-heeled vacationers would stow their summer duds and dust off their heavier, darker-colored fall clothing. "There used to be a much clearer sense of re-entry," says Steele. "You're back in the city, back at school, back doing whatever you're doing in the fall — and so you have a new wardrobe."

Click here to read the complete article and how Coco Chanel fought the issue.

NEWARK EARTHWORKS POW-WOW

2011-09-05T14:45:00.001-04:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

ALL ABOUT BEING A ROMAN

2011-09-04T05:59:00.000-04:00

Once again thank you, Nicholas Bate.

SPENDING PROBLEMS

2011-09-02T05:29:00.000-04:00

As posted by Steve Layman:

It is a spending problem..........

I have seen this handy explanation several places around the
Intertunnel, just can't remember where. My apologies for not
being able to credit the proper source. Anyway, to make our
Federal budget issue easier to understand, remove the extra
eight zeroes and pretend it is a household budget. Enjoy.

U.S. income: $2,170,000,000,000

Federal budget: $3,820,000,000,000

New debt: $1,650,000,000,000

National debt: $14,271,000,000,000

Recent budget cut: $38,500,000,000
-------------------------------------------------------------

After subtracting the eight zeroes it looks like this:

Total annual income for the Jones family: $21,700

Amount of money the Jones family spent: $38,200

Amount of new debt added to the credit card: $16,500

Outstanding balance on the credit card: $142,710

Amount of spending cut: $385

Ouch. The first step to recovery from any problem is to
acknowledge we have one. Can we all agree we have a
spending problem? Please?

BIG BAND TRY OUTS

2011-09-01T07:24:00.000-04:00

Second year chemistry major from Copely, Ohio during tryouts for the OSU Marching Band. If he makes the cut, this will be his second year to march.
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2011 OSU BUCKEYE SCHEDULE

2011-08-29T10:06:00.002-04:00

FRIDAY AFTER WORK LOCAL ACTIVITIES

2011-08-26T06:41:00.004-04:00

Three after works activities to be a part of today:

1. Stop by Downtown Newark and visit the Farmer's Market and pick up locally grown produce for this weekend's dinners. Open from 4-7pm.

2. Walk around the square and visit the shops during the Final Friday celebration with a Western Cowboy theme from 5-8pm.

3. Attend the COTC Nursing School's pinning ceremony and listen to PNB's Cheryl Snyder's commencement address at 6:00pm.

The only Rolex you'll ever regret paying for

2011-08-25T05:54:00.004-04:00

THIS IS PROBABLY THE SAME PERSON THAT HAS DESIGNER

EYE GLASSES TATTOOED ON HIS FACE

Good Habits Come from Bad Times

2011-08-23T06:51:00.002-04:00

Take today's rough seas as the best lesson you could possibly have in sailing through to prosperous times. On days when it seems that nothing works and times are lean, remember that today's adversity is teaching you what a boom market can never teach. Invest in yourself and form good habits now.

Read the complete article by clicking here. Thank you Scott Levitt once again for your Tuesday Tactics.

NURSING & CENTRAL OHIO TECHNICAL COLLEGE

2011-08-17T14:19:00.007-04:00

To be young again.....

I was visiting a friend at Licking Memorial Hospital and as I walked down the hallway of the fifth floor, I overheard some giggling and the very low hum of singing from the sun room at the end of the hall. When I investigated the sun room I found six COTC nursing students. I asked if I could take a photo for my blog. Everyone was all smiles because today was the last day of their clinicals and at the end of three more quarters, they will become an important part of health care. When questioning about their experience and what they have done, they were talking a different language which tells me they have learned a lot and are getting close to being kicked out of the nest.

Shortly after the photo, a lady walked into my friend's room and asked if I was the one who had photographed the students. My first thought was that I was in big trouble, I responded positively. Melissa Lowe was their instructor and wanted me to retake another photo with her in the picture. This indicates to me she was proud of her students and also feels like an important part of their lives.

The two year nursing program along with many other COTC areas of study has played an important part in our community.

CLOTHING AUCTION NOT TO MISS

2011-08-15T07:18:00.004-04:00

From The Trad: Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.'s personal property. Click here to check out the amazing clothing you can buy, but most likely will not fit.

PACK THE PERFECT SCHOOL LUNCH

2011-08-10T05:23:00.000-04:00

Pack the Perfect School Lunch
Send your children off with the fuel they need to learn–and play.

Homework? Check. Backpack? Check. A nutritious, delicious, energy-packed, obesity-fighting lunch? Whoops. Take control. Follow this advice and your kid will be happy, healthy, and the envy of the lunch table.

Click here to read the entire article and a list of items to pack from Men's Health.

ONE MORE CONVERT-Larry Parr

2011-08-09T19:31:00.001-04:00

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RARE OPPORTUNITY STARTING THIS WEEKEND AT WEATHERVANE

2011-08-08T18:06:00.002-04:00

Directed by famed Broadway Director Jen Bender

with afternoon and evening performances, special discounts for U.S. Vetrans!

One night only with special Broadway Actress Lisa Vroman benefiting

Weathervane Playhouse in the memory of her friend Matthew for the Matthew Trombetta Theatre Arts Building at Weathervane.

A LIFETIME OF ENTERTAINMENT IN ONE NIGHT

2011-08-08T05:02:00.002-04:00

Spending over three hours last week in Cincinnati's Great American Ball Park summed up an entire career for Paul McCartney and brought to my mind many memories. The Youtube video is one of many publish from Thursday's concert.

As I listened he brought back memories from Junior High School, High School, College, young adulthood, mid-adulthood and surely will be taken into my senior years. Paul was on stage for three hours, half way through I kept thinking he would run out of music. Sure enough, the next song continued to be a champion on his long list of winners, some I had forgotten about. No one in the stadium sat, but stood, sang and danced. After two encores, all 42,000 of us spending between $99 and $650 for a seat walked out of the stadium not in a rush, but glowing due to knowing that you were entertained by a star that has effected so many life's and changed the music industry years ago overnight.

At age 69 Paul McCartney still has the boyish look that he brought to the USA in 1964 for the Ed Sullivan show. Click to watch Ed's introduction and The Beatles' first USA appearance.

LESSON LEARNED: Paul is a good example of how one should guide their real estate career. Change with the times, market yourself properly, keeping yourself in the back of every one's mind and keep your customers constantly coming back for more.

Bob + Joan Kent's wonderful desert

2011-08-06T20:25:00.001-04:00

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WORLD ECONOMICS & THE BIG MAC INDEX

2011-08-05T05:38:00.000-04:00

As posted by Esquire and read via Valet:

I was in Sweden this past weekend, where my first order of business after stepping off the plane was plonking down 108 kronas, or $18, for a bottle of water, a cappuccino, and a muffin. What? How could this be possible? All was made clear later in the day when I came upon The Economist's Big Mac Index, in which the smartest guys in the room attempt to make fancy economic principles like purchasing-power parity and currency valuations tangible to your average math-allergic burger-lover like me. Success!

Ladies and gents, we can learn much by simply looking at Big Mac prices around the globe. For instance, we should all think twice before planning a vacation to Sweden, where you'll pay almost twice as much for your fast-food burger (the Swedes are quick to point out that Norway's prices are even worse). Taking the analysis one step further, by adjusting those global prices to account for varying labor costs in different countries, we can learn something about exchange rates. Namely that pretty much every world currency is overvalued against the dollar, the worst of which is the Brazilian real. The takeaway: For your next vacation, it's a great time to rediscover America's scenic roadways. [The Economist]

I should have eaten more last March in China.

McCartney

2011-08-04T21:40:00.001-04:00

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Thinking About Joint Home Ownership?

2011-08-04T05:26:00.001-04:00

A good friend of mine several years ago, purchased a home with his fiance. The proposed marriage was called off just before the wedding. They had already purchased a home together and spent many dollars decorating and rehabbing.

As he says today "it was the most expensive divorce anyone could have for not being married", don't allow this to happen to you.

The following was obtain via CBKTTWEET:

Whether you’re newlyweds, best friends or relatives, sharing a home purchase requires making many compromises. Decisions such as the location of the home and financial obligations by each party must be made through a joint effort. It is also helpful to involve an objective mediator when making crucial decisions.

“The idea of owning can seem overwhelming, especially for those who are new to the real estate process, but with a professional at your side it is very manageable,” said Jerry White, executive vice president of Coldwell Banker King Thompson. “Your Realtor can help by being that outside, third party who can direct you through the process of making the right decision.”

When making a collaborative purchase, here are a few things to keep in mind:

■Shared Costs. With two incomes, short-term and

long-term costs can be divided among each partner. Therefore, joint owners

do not have to spend as much time saving up for enough capital when

entering into a home purchase together.

■Shared Settings.
Whether it is a quiet neighborhood or a big kitchen, everyone has their own “must-haves” when it comes to the home of their dreams. Discuss the essentials before
beginning the search and be prepared to compromise.

■ Prepare for Future Funding.
The down payment on a new home is just one of the many financial aspects of home ownership. Maintenance costs, decorating materials, and insurance fees are all fundamentals of a home purchase that should be discussed by both parties.
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ONE MORE CONVERT

2011-08-03T08:06:00.001-04:00

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4 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PHONE SAFE FROM HACKERS

2011-08-02T05:15:00.000-04:00

Your smartphone likely contains a lot of personal and business information on it. But if you’re not careful, you can easily open up your smartphone to attacks from hackers. An article at RISMedia recently featured security smartphone tips from the Polytechnic Institute of New York University. Among the tips:

1. Lock your phone. Most people keep their phone unlocked for ease of use, but if your phone was ever misplaced or stolen, you’d give thieves an open ticket to access everything on your phone. Use a password-protected screen lock to keep your phone secure. Also, “if your phone has a SIM card, set a PIN code for the card—if the phone is ever lost, nobody can use the card,” the article notes.

2. Be cautious of apps that ask for too much extra information. Use common sense: If an app that you are downloading is for a calculator, for example, and it requests Internet and contacts permissions, you’ll want to avoid it. “Cyber-thieves often exploit smart phones by creating a good app with some extra code and overreaching permissions,” the article notes.

3. Be sure to log out of all Web services once you’re finished. By staying logged in on Web sites, you could open up your sensitive information to cyber-attacks from sites you visit, such as your banking or e-mail. While desktops tend to have a timeout period after you remain inactive for some time on a Web site, many devices granting mobile access do not. So make sure you log out after you’re finished on a Web site.

4. Check reviews of apps. Before you download a new app, be sure to read reviews. Be skeptical over any apps that don’t have many reviews yet and new ones recently added, which may have privacy and security problems.

Source: RISMedia via The Ohio Association of Realtors
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BUILD RELATIONSHIPS, SOLVE PROBLEMS & HAVE FUN

2011-08-01T05:10:00.000-04:00

During the past two months I was able to do as Sean Carpenter wants me to do: build a relationship, solved a problem and have fun.

Above you will find a photo of the powerful Ben Harden, no ordinary 15 year old.

I built a relationship: Due to a problem of tennis elbow from last March I had a problem. My yard needed to be straightened out big time. Besides my personal residence, Andrew Guanciale and I own a home that was in middle of a major rehab need.

Ben solved my problem: He came on June 1 and worked, I found him totalling amazing. He cut down shrubs almost twice as tall as he and then pounded out the root balls with a maddock, cleaned gutters, set up the patio furniture, waxed a car and too many other other things to remember. After the first three weeks, 1027 W. Church Street became Ben's new office. His initiative to do things before being asked is a large asset to have in an employee. As an example, he painted the rear deck railing one day, the next day I stopped by and he was painting the front porch railing that I had never thought about. When he saw me walking up the sidewalk, all he said was "this needed paint also". We were on a tight deadline to have the home completed for a new tenant and there was many things to do. A job I thought we should do together was to install a new window in the garage, it had been sitting at the home for two weeks. Thursday, I stopped by and once again he looked at me and said "I installed the garage window". With Ben knowing our deadline, he hired a friend to help clean, Savannah Hottinger. For the one day, Savannah came to the plate and did a terrific job. At 2:00pm, Ben had this home looking the best it had looked since it was a brand new home, 65 years ago or so. He solved a problem that Andrew and I could not have done to meet the deadline.

I had fun: Watching Ben work will go down as one of the best summers I have ever had. Brought back many memories of when I was the same age working a construction job and especially watching his father Kurt Harden nearly at the same age doing odd jobs for me.

My award: we had a great lunch at White Castle one Saturday after a Lowe's run, just the two of us. Making sure he did not consider me as an old guy my plan was to keep up with the number of burgers eaten, he only beat me by one slider. I was worried, but knew he would carry me to car if I had made myself too full or a fool.

HEAD OUT TO BUCKEYE LAKE, DILLON OR HOOVER

2011-07-30T05:33:00.000-04:00

A GREAT WAY TO COOL OFF THIS WEEKEND.

For many of you who can remember the 60s, check out the photos by LeRoy Grannis, retired head photographer of Surfing Illustrated during the 1960's. Everyone wanted to be surfer or surfer's girl. Click here to check out more of LeRoy's now classic photos from Time Magazine.

Downtown Newark, Ohio Final Friday

2011-07-29T18:24:00.000-04:00

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