If you’d like more information about the show, please visit www.candyusa.com.

Consumer Flavor Favorites

When consumers get one of those “what-am-I-in-the-mood-for” moments, they shouldn’t have to choose between sweet and salty. And this year, that flavor combination is a big trend! One great product that features the best of both worlds is the new M&M’S® Brand Snack Mix.

It’s the perfect combination of creamy-crunchy-sweet-and-salty. It also comes in three varieties; milk chocolate, dark chocolate and peanut chocolate candies. Even better, the mix features a satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts, the smooth buttery goodness of oven-baked mini cookies, the salty flavor of golden pretzel twists and the delightful sweetness of real chocolate M&M’S® Brand Candies. What more could you want?

For more information on the new snack mix, visit www.mms.com.

New Twists on the Classics

This year’s show also featured new twists on traditional classics. You might be asking what mint companies could possibly be doing to raise the bar in freshness. Well, the Ice Breakers® brand has just introduced another dazzling new way to give your mouth a refreshing lift with new Ice Breakers Duo® sugar free mints, the ultimate “fruit+cool” flavor sensation.

The new, experientially delicious Ice Breakers Duo Mints combine a textured fruit-flavored side—in raspberry or strawberry—with a cooling smooth side featuring Ice Breakers’ signature flavor and cooling crystals. You won’t have to look far to pick these up! Ice Breakers Duo Mints can be purchased in 1.3 oz. tins at participating mass, grocery, drug and specialty retailers.

For more information, visit www.hersheys.com/icebreakers.

Another trend we’re seeing is consumers looking for a delicious chocolate they can feel good about loving. And we’ve got a sweet surprise for chocolate lovers! Hershey’s® Simple Pleasures® Chocolate—smooth and delicious with a rich creamy center—will hit stores in June.

They come in a variety of flavors, including Milk Chocolate with Chocolate Crème, Milk Chocolate with Vanilla Crème and Dark Chocolate with Chocolate Crème in 5.6-oz. pouches. The sweet surprise is that they’re 30 percent less fat, compared to the average leading milk chocolates.

For more information, check out www.hersheyssimplepleasures.com.

Consumer Flavor Favorites

Natural flavors and color are also big this year! Snapple has partnered with Jelly Belly to bring their favorite juice drinks to life in a Jelly Belly jelly bean.

These are made with real fruit juices and purees, natural flavors and without artificial colors. They’re available in five sweet and tangy flavors: Fruit Punch, Mango Madness™, Cranberry Raspberry, Pink Lemonade and Kiwi Strawberry.

Available in a variety of package types, Jelly Belly also ramps up the fun by packaging Jelly Belly® Snapple™ Mix in miniature versions of Snapple bottles, ideal for on-the-go snacking or party favors.

For more information, visit www.jellybelly.com .

For more about Kimberly Lacy, click here:

www.kimberlylacy.com

Twitter.com/KimberlyLacy

www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberly-Lacy/152301603315

We hope you enjoyed watching HGTV’s Kimberly Lacy and got some good tips for making a clean start this spring. In case you didn’t catch her on TV, here’s what you missed:

Maintaining Your Lawn

Have you made your way out to the shed to check on your lawn equipment? Since they’ve been sitting around all winter, they might have trouble getting revved up.

Did you know that four out of five Americans who experienced engine trouble found themselves paying approximately $300 to fix the problem (2012 survey, Gold Eagle Co.)?  To avoid an expensive trip to the repair shop, it’s important use a product that will help to clear clogged fuel lines like Start Your Engines! from the maker of STA-BIL ^®. Simply pour a bottle into the fuel tank of your lawnmower, weed whacker or leaf blower, give it a minute, and your small engine equipment will start up fast. A bottle costs about $9, and you can find it at Lowes, Wal-Mart, Ace Hardware or True Value Hardware stores nationwide.

Find out more by visiting www.startyourenginesus.com

Freshening Your Laundry

All spring cleaning starts with switching out fall/winter clothes for spring/summer. Go ahead and sort pieces that you haven’t been wearing and those that need a lot of repair. Put them in either a toss or donate pile. For the rest that have been packed away all winter…Toss them in the laundry and add 1 cup of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda®. It makes your liquid detergent work harder, because it creates a better balance of pH in the wash to get clothes cleaner, fresher and brighter. Plus, it’s available in a 13.5 lb re-sealable pouch size, which makes it an easy additive for every wash load.

Baking Soda is one of the most versatile products you can have at home. It has countless uses, including hard surface cleaning, deodorization and outdoor cleaning. Use it to freshen your carpets, clean the bathroom floor and kitchen surfaces, wash patio furniture and scrub door and window screens. And, it’s very inexpensive; a 1 lb. box will cost you about $1.
Find out more tips by visiting www.armandhammer.com

Protecting Your Home

One of the most important targets on your spring cleaning list might be lurking in a musty corner of your basement. Most of us prefer not to think we share the inside and outside of our homes with mold and mildew, but the reality is that mold can strike any home, new or old, in any area, dry or arid. In addition to the unwanted odor, appearance and structural damage it creates, 100 percent of all types of mold have the potential to cause some health issue, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

It is important to use a mold growth inhibitor, like Zep Commercial® Clear Shell™. This product differs from others on the market because it uses Chitosan, a by-product of recycled crab shells, which effectively combats mold and mildew growth without exposing the user or environment to harsh ingredients like butyl, bleach or phosphates. This active ingredient also helps eliminate the foul, musty odors from mold and mildew. The proper application of Zep Commercial Clear Shell dries to form an invisible antimicrobial barrier against mold and mildew growth on indoor and outdoor surfaces including wood, carpet, concrete, stone, stucco, vinyl, plastic and more.

Zep Commercial Clear Shell is available in 32-ounce and one-gallon containers, which can cover approximately 67 square-feet and 270 square-feet respectively. You can buy it at home improvement retailers and hardware stores nationwide.

Consumers and professionals can learn more about Clear Shell at www.zepclearshell.com, on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ZepCommercial and on www.Twitter.com/ZepCommercial.

Have the Right Tools:

Some spring sprucing projects may require you to climb to higher heights. If you’re cleaning windows, painting or even clearing gutters, the traditional 16’ extension ladder may prove difficult to work with. Check out the new Compact Extension Ladder from Werner. This ladder lets 16′ extension ladders go where they have never gone before – around corners, through doors, in elevators and through narrow stairwells! Its 6’ compact size provides the ideal solution for transporting

ladders and storing them in tight spaces at home–in a closet, garage or shed. These new ladders provide the same reach as a standard extension ladder, but in a compact, easy to use design without compromising the quality, safety and reach of a traditional 2-piece extension ladder.

In the closed position, the 3-piece design makes the Compact Ladder 20%-25% shorter than standard 2-piece extension ladders making it

easier to transport and maneuver. The compact design with carrying handle also stores easily when not in use. Additionally, in the extended position, more overlapping rung locations provide improved working comfort.

Developed for homeowners and DIY-ers, the Type II, 225 lb Compact Aluminum Extension Ladder features a 16’ model. Another advantage is that the 16′ ladder can be delivered directly to end users through standard shipping carriers.

Pricing for the Compact 3-Piece Aluminum Extension ladder starts at $149.00.

For more information about Werner’s Compact Extension Ladders visit http://us.wernerco.com/compactextensionladder.

Additional Spring Sprucing Tips

• For a quick mailbox spruce up, sand down the old rust, get a can of spray paint and give it a new color. It’s always best to match the mailbox post to the trim of your house. And don’t forget to replace the rusted flag with a brand new one for just $5 bucks.

• One really cool tip is to paint the ceiling of your porch or any outdoor structure a sky blue. This confuses birds and insects into thinking it’s the sky so they won’t nest in those areas. It will also stay cleaner longer.

• Touch up the baseboards in your house for that extra-crisp clean look. If you’re really feeling motivated, touch up the exterior trim with a coat of the same color exterior trim paint.

• Replace those house number stickers with real metal or iron number appliqués. They look richer and actually make a big difference and add to your home’s curb appeal.

• If you’re struggling with what to do with that ugly 1980’s brass chandelier in your diningroom, visit a local crafts store and get some model car spray paint. A vivid and bold color can make it into a chic showpiece. Your friends will be totally jealous!

• Run the washing machine and dishwasher only when full. Washing machines use a lot of water and energy and you’d be surprised at how much more water is used when hand washing.

• Before planting a tree in your yard, consider the size of the tree and the space you’re going to plant the tree in. Look at the tag hanging on the tree to find out what the tree will measure when it matures. You never want your house to be hidden behind humongous trees.

• Update and bring style to your kitchen by adding a tile backsplash. It’s sure to make your kitchen look expensive and complete while protecting your wall. Oil and water splatters can actually discolor walls. A tile Backsplash is a DIY project with minimal technique required.

• If you are a person who likes change and surrounding yourself with color, choose neutral colors for your walls andfurniture. Keep up with design color trends with throw pillows, rugs and other accessories. This way your home’s decor will never go out of style.

• Update the look of your terra cotta pots. Use a high gloss latex paint to cover the pots and choose your favorite colors from the current year’s color forecast to keep your home in style.

• Add a wow factor and coordinate the colors in your space by customizing store-bought drapes or panels. You can sew wide ribbon horizontally 4 -5 inches above the bottom of the drapes. You can also use an openwork fabric like lace so that the color of the drapes shows through the added layer.

• Clear your mind and clear your clutter. Tons of clothes crowding your closet? Ask yourself this question: When was the last time I wore this? If it was two years ago, toss it! One cool way to get rid of clothes is to take them to a consignment shop, where you can make a few bucks.

• If paper is your clutter culprit, open your mail, recycle envelopes and junk mail immediately. Go through the paper, put it in a filing system or trash it.

• If you plan to go green in your yard and want to use less water, consider low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plants, such as ornamental grasses and succulents. Install rain barrels at the downspouts, and water your plants and gardens with the collected rain water. Visit www.frontgate.com or Gardeners Supply at www.gardeners.com for several rain barrel styles and sizes.

• Keep yard pests out of your flower beds by creating a barrier of citrus peels around the border of your space. The acidic citrusy smell wards off most furry friends…dogs and cats included.

• Tired of stubborn weeds and need to kill ‘em for good. Mix two tbsp of dish washing liquid, two tbsp of gin and two tbsp of white vinegar per 1 qt. of water. Pour in a spray bottle and spray those weeds away.

Lenovo’s K91 Smart TV:

While televisions continue to be a central attraction at the show, one Smart TV from PC maker Lenovo takes the small screen to a whole new level. The Lenovo K91 Smart TV will transform your living room into the ultimate HD connected experience. This is the first SmartTV to run Android 4.0, which means access to thousands of apps. In addition, its interactive voice-controlled remote features natural language processing and speech recognition technology that allows users to tell the TV exactly what they want to do. You can also use the remote control just like a tablet to access social networks, search for the app store, change the channel and more all with the touch of your finger. It’s never been so easy to watch TV and videos on demand, download apps and interact on your favorite social networks!

You can even video chat with your friends and family using the built-in 5MP webcam, which features face recognition technology for security benefits and advanced parental control. Plus, playing games on the TV is simpler than ever and gives users a true gaming console experience with the gyro gamepad.  Consumers can also access their favorite songs and videos with ease using the cloud, and share files between the TV and their tablet, smartphone or PC. Everything you can do on your Android tablet and phone, you can do on the K91 Smart TV!

Even the display of the K91 is smart. Its sleek LED screen, amazing HD picture, incredible sound quality and 3D technology delivers a movie theatre experience at home.

Find out more by visiting www.lenovo.com

Kia’s UVO eServices Telematics System:

As you can imagine there are thousands of hot gadgets around to help enhance your car in some sort of way.  The newest to hit the market is the UVO eServices, the next generation of Kia’s groundbreaking UVO voice-controlled in-car telematics system. UVO, meaning “Your Voice,” offers drivers multiple hands-free music and mobile phone management capabilities, allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, access music from a variety of media sources, including CD, radio, USB or media player, and create custom music experiences.

UVO eServices takes it to the next level by offering peace of mind through the eServices function, a smartphone-based system that  includes Crash Notification Assist, Roadside Assist, Automatic Diagnostics, Manual Diagnostics, Monthly Diagnostics, eServices Guide, Trip Info, Send2Car, Curfew Limit, Speed Alert, Geo Fencing, Car Care Web and Park Assist. All eService capabilities are accessible by simply downloading the free smartphone app, which can be found through all Apple, Blackberry and Android app stores. UVO eServices offers drivers convenience and peace of mind, with features including Crash Notification Assist and Roadside Assist. In the event of an accident, UVO eServices will call 9-1-1, relay the vehicle’s location and allow the operator to speak directly to the occupants. Should drivers find themselves stranded on the side of the road, Roadside Assist will communicate the vehicle’s location and list of issues directly to Kia’s 24/7 call center with just the push of a button. Owners can easily monitor their car’s health through UVO eServices’s comprehensive diagnostics system. Geo Fencing allows the owner to keep track of their vehicle when someone else is behind the wheel. Notifications on the user’s smartphone will alert them if the car is driven past a specified distance, while Curfew Limit notifies the owner if the car is driven after a preset time, perfect for parents with driving-age children. A UVO eServices /Navigation package also will be available to combine both systems. Co-developed with Microsoft and based on Windows Embedded Auto software.

Find out more by visiting www.kia.com

Hello! We hope you enjoyed Michele Ammon’s interview and tips for Last-Minute Parties, Planning and Gift Ideas! As a professional party planner and event organizer, Michele knows first-hand how to turn a last-minute idea into well-planned work of art.

See below for more information on the items she discussed:

SMUCKER’S® ORCHARD’S FINEST®

The holidays are a time for entertaining, decorating, sharing gifts and eating delicious food with family and friends. Add a special touch to classic holiday dishes by incorporating your favorite flavor of Smucker’s® Orchard’s Finest® Preserves. For example, Smucker’s Orchard’s Finest Northwest Triple Berry Preserves is the perfect complement to baked brie – a holiday favorite. Click here for the Triple Berry Baked Brie recipe.

Other delicious varieties include: Pacific Mountain Strawberry Preserves, Michigan Red Tart Cherry Preserves, Northwoods Blueberry Preserves, Northwest Triple Berry Preserves, Coastal Valley Peach Apricot, Pacific Grove Orange Marmalade Medley and Fall Harvest Cinnamon Apple.

MSRP: $3.30 – $3.50
Available: where you buy groceries. Visit www.smuckers.com for other holiday recipe inspiration.

©/® The J.M. Smucker Company

PILLSBURY® BAKING MIXES
From spending time around the fireplace with family and friends or “just because,” baking with Pillsbury® Cookie Mixes makes it easy to celebrate special holiday moments. Delicious new products include Holiday Funfetti®, Chocolate Peppermint, Snickerdoodle, Chocolate Chip and Sugar Cookie varieties. And with delicious Pillsbury Easy Frost™ No-Fuss Frosting, it’s easy to unleash your creative genius.

MSRP: $2.29 for 17.5 oz
Available: Your grocer’s baking aisle. Visit www.PillsburyBaking.com for more information and holiday recipes.

©/™/® The J.M. Smucker Company. Pillsbury, the Barrelhead logo and the Doughboy character are trademarks of The Pillsbury® Company, LLC, used under license.

MILLSTONE® K-CUP® PACKS
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday party planning season, don’t forget to take a moment for yourself. With Millstone® K-Cup® Packs for your Keurig® Brewing System, great taste and variety are never more than 60 seconds away. Millstone Coffee’s distinctive “bean to cup” journey is carefully crafted to bring optimum quality and flavor to each cup of coffee.

Now through December 27, 2011, spend a minute on Millstone.com and answer a simple poll question for a chance to win a year’s worth of Millstone K-Cup® Packs, a Keurig® Brewing System and $10,000 – plus great weekly prizes. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C., 18 years or older. Void where prohibited. See www.Millstone.com for more details and complete Official Rules.
MSRP: $6.99-$7.49 12 count K-Cup® Packs & $11.29-$11.99 18 count K-Cup® Packs
Available: In Breakfast Blend, Hazelnut Cream and Foglifter® varieties where you buy groceries

©/® Millstone Coffee, Inc.
Keurig, the Cup and Star design, Keurig Brewed and K-Cup are trademarks of Keurig, Incorporated, used with permission. K-Cup® Packs for use in Keurig® Brewing Systems.

A professional entertainer can never overlook clean-up, so Michele uses a trusted brand like Brawny® paper towels. For tough challenges, she likes their thickness and absorbency and especially their strength when wet. Note that Brawny® paper towels come in larger role size packs: new “Mega” roll size and “Big & Giant” roll items. Also, check out Brawny® Towels on Facebook and Twitter and look for product promotions this winter.

Have a great holiday season!

Happy Holidays! Hope Mark Montano got you up to speed on this year’s hottest gifts and gadgets. Below you’ll find more information on the items he discussed.

*Mark Montano Blogs

*Follow my TWEETS

*Check out my ETSY shop

*Join me on Facebook

*Check out all of my books

*www.MarkMontano.com

GIRL TOY:

Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas DVD

“This holiday season marks the 10 year anniversary of Barbie™ Entertainment, with Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas,” the 22^nd title in the popular Barbie™ direct-to-video franchise, starring Barbie™ and her sisters Skipper™, Stacie™ and Chelsea™. As the girls set out on a vacation to New York, a snowstorm turns their plans into an unexpected adventure far away from the dream holiday trip they’d had in mind. Stranded in the tiny town of Tannenbaum, the sisters surprisingly discover new friends, holiday fun and magical experiences. To show their appreciation to the town, Barbie™ and her sisters use their musical talents to put on a fantastic performance. In the end, Barbie™ and her sisters learn the heartwarming lesson that the joy of being together is what really makes a perfect Christmas.

ARP: $14.95 | Age: 3+ | Available: November 2011

Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas Barbie® Doll

In the all-new movie “Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas,” Barbie™ and her sisters put on a rockin’ concert for the small town of Tannenbaum. Girls can recreate the movie’s musical finale with Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas® Barbie® doll. Wearing a beautiful, candy cane inspired glittery dress, Barbie® doll is accessorized with fabulous “jewelry” and faux fur for a truly glam holiday look.

ARP: $18.99 | Age: 3+ | Available: Exclusively at Target

Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas Dolls & Stage

Girls will have a blast recreating their favorite scenes from “Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas” in this fun musical four-pack gift set featuring Barbie®doll and her sisters Skipper®, Stacie® and Chelsea®. Wearing outfits inspired by Christmas ornaments, the sisters come together on stage to sing “Deck the Halls” in their own harmony. By plugging each doll into the stage, girls can hear the sisters singing in their own voices. Girls will have hours of fun re-enacting the magic of the movie finale by plugging each doll on stage and hear their singing voices individually harmonized – with all four ultimately singing together.

ARP: $54.99| Age: 3+ | Available: Exclusively at Target

Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas Chelsea® Doll Assortment

Girls can play out winter fun with the “Barbie™ A Perfect Christmas” story Chelsea® doll assortment featuring different holiday clothing themes including, Ice Skating-themed Chelsea® doll wears a festive snowflake-inspired skating dress with winter white skates.  Snow Day Chelsea® doll wears a Christmas ornament-inspired dress and girly pink ear muffs.

ARP: $6.99 | Age: 3+ | Available: Exclusively at Target

BOY TOY:

KRE-O Transformers Optimus Prime Set

‘Roll out’ and get hands on the biggest building set in the KRE-O line up: the KRE-O TRANSFORMERS OPTIMUS PRIME set. Complete with more than 500 pieces, the largest amount featured in any of the 2011 KRE-O sets, builders can assemble the popular OPTIMUS PRIME character in ‘vehicle’ mode as the notable semi-hauler or in ‘robot’ mode to create the leader of the AUTOBOTS. When in ‘vehicle’ mode, the truck’s removable cab converts into a mini-command station and the trailer opens to fit the two motorcycles and five unique KREON figures included with the set. The trailer can also be disassembled and built into a command center playset for the KREON figures. When in ‘robot’ mode, builders can blast into action with a projectile launching brick! The KRE-O TRANSFORMERS OPTIMUS PRIME set includes orange traffic cones and cool decorative decals. Available at most major retailers nationwide and www.HasbroToyShop.com.

(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up /Approx. Retail Price: $59.99/Available: Summer 2011)

ADULTS:

You can’t go wrong with tech gifts. From computers to phones to e-readers to ipods and ipads, everybody from mom, dad and teenagers all want some type of tech gift.

For the DIYer in your life there is the Dremel Saw-Max. It’s a compact, handheld saw that allows users to make precise, straight cuts with confidence in a variety of materials. At one-third of the size and weight of a traditional circular saw, the tool enables easy, one-handed operation and allows for detailed work in tight spaces.

www.dremel.com

http://www.dremelnewsroom.com/epks/SawMax_Dremel3000/saw-max.html

KIDS 10 AND UNDER

Tennis Gear Sized Just Right For Kids and Free 1-Year USTA Junior Membership For Kids 10 and Under!

Tennis is the perfect gift to give children this holiday season…it’s fun, easy, and can be played almost anywhere…the playground, a sidewalk or driveway, and even indoors.

In the spirit of getting kids more active, The United States Tennis Association (USTA), which hosts one of the greatest sporting events in the world…the US Open, is now offering free 1- year junior memberships to kids ten and younger, new to the USTA.  Kids will receive Bounce, a quarterly newsletter and access to play fun programs in their area.

And to play “real tennis” kids need the right equipment.  With 10 and Under Tennis, parents can now purchase the right-sized tennis equipment for their kids including – smaller, lighter racquets and softer, lower bouncing balls – at a local sporting goods store, at one of the large discount retailers or online.

To learn more information about the USTA’s free membership for kids or where to buy equipment, go to www.givethegiftoftennis.com. Join the fun!!

Happy Holidays!

PREPARATION

First of all, decide the best place to host your gathering.  Someplace creative and fun can really take your party to the next level.  If you’re planning a backyard tailgate, consider setting up tents in the back yard. Have a pregame party outside near the grill so the host can cook and party with friends at the same time. Plan some games – touch football is great fun for pre-game entertainment. Don’t forget the kids! Setting up a table with face paint of game colors is a fun way to entertain kids and adults alike.

Here’s another idea…try a “mancave”!  A pool or foosball table can really set the mood before the main event starts.  Here’s where you can show off your high def television. These days giant TV’s really make fans feel like they’re on the sidelines.

No need for elaborate decorations. Turn the decorating over to the kids by providing a craft table with colored paper, glue, scissors and markers. Or, instead of a tablecloth, cover the food table with white or brown paper. Scatter markers on the table for guests to scribble cheers or words of encouragement for their favorite team.

Next, it’s time to decide on what food you will be serving.

FOOD

Food is always the way to go, so make sure you have a nice spread on hand!  Score a touchdown with subs, hot wings and/or pizza. Finger foods work well at football parties. Don’t forget about the snacks…try Jack Link’s Jerky! It’s the ultimate guilt free tailgating snack because it fills you up, not out. It’s low in fat, calories and carbs, making it a better snacking choice for any hungry football fan. Some fan favorite flavors include Teriyaki Beef Jerky or Flamin’ Buffalo Chicken Nuggets. It requires no refrigeration and because it is naturally packed with protein, you’ll feel satisfied and energized throughout the entire game.  Visit www.JackLinks.com for even more information!

Make sure you have sufficient soft drinks and bottled waters. Ice the drinks down and place at strategic locations on the porch, patio or family room. A tailgating fan favorite is Coke Zero! This fall, Coke Zero is helping football fans truly live the game by giving away VIP game access, once-in-a-lifetime fan experience and thousands of sweet prizes to help fans enjoy everything about the sport. Beginning Sunday, August 28^th, visit mycokerewards.com and enter to win tickets to a season-ending college rivalry game this fall!

CLEANUP

If your party is going as planned, there’s bound to be some major clean-up before, during and after the game. It is a good idea to have a few rolls of Brawny® paper towels on hand. Georgia-Pacific, the manufacturer of Brawny Towels, makes a towel that’s great for tough cleaning challenges and it has increased strength when wet.  It can also be a great aid for the game host to get surfaces clean quickly, so they can get back to the party and the game. Brawny Towels come in larger role size packs:  “Big & Giant” roll items and new “Mega” roll size.  Just check out The Brawny Man™ on Facebook and Twitter and look out for giveaways and product promotions this fall.

Check out these pages for more info:

Brawny Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brawnytowels

Brawny Twitter: @Brawny_Towels

Brawny Product Site:  http://www.brawnytowels.com/

Additional Tailgating Party Tips Source: http://www.giftypedia.com/Tailgating_at_Home

Did you enjoy watching parenting expert Amy McCready, share her back to school tips?  Here is a little more information on the topics she discussed and where to find even more information.

ORGANIZATION

First of all, kids have a ton of after school activities that keep them busy, and trying to keep them organized can be a challenge. A good idea is to create “calendar central”, a designated place where all family calendars and schedules are located. You can track after school activities, school programs and lunches and even chores. Think of it as a one-stop shop for family time management.

SAFETY
If you’re an on-the-go parent of an older child and want an easy way to check up on them, check out Protection 1′s eSecure. With this security system, parents can get instant text messages or emails sent right to their smartphone or computer when their child arrives home from school. Parents have the option to remotely arm or disarm the system for their child or after-school babysitter, and, if they want to make sure the kids are behaving and getting their work done, they can have video shots sent to a smart phone or laptop. eSecure can also send alerts if smoke or elevated carbon-monoxide levels are detected, a pipe bursts or the power goes out.  For more information, go to www.protection1.com

LUNCHES AND CLEANING

It’s important to plan meals a week at a time. While proper nutrition is key, don’t forget to include disposable containers, hand sanitizer and – you may not think of this – a paper towel that can be used both wet and dry. Brawny® towels are great for tough cleaning challenges, and have increased strength when wet so your child can leave the lunch area just as clean as they found it. They can also be a great aid for moms to get surfaces clean quickly, so they can get back to their busy schedules.  And now’s a good time to stock up! Brawny towels come in large role size packs: “Big & Giant” roll items and new “Mega” roll size.  Just check out the Brawny Man on Facebook and Twitter and look out for giveaways and product promotions this fall.

Check out these pages for more info:

Brawny Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/brawnytowels)

Brawny Twitter: @Brawny_Towels

Brawny Product Site:  http://www.brawnytowels.com/

SUPPLIES
As you know, all that back to school shopping can be overwhelming. But luckily, your child’s school usually sends out a detailed list of required school supplies . This includes everything from notebooks, paper and scissors to crayons. So when you stock up on those school supplies, buy in bulk and make sure you include things that can double for use in your home. For example, notebooks, paper, pencils and reliable pens are a necessity year round. Bic Atlantis Ball Pens feature Easy-Glide System Ink Technology, and it provides a great writing experience that is up to 35% smoother writing compared to traditional BIC ball pen ink systems.  You can learn more about it at www.bicworldusa.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Here are even more tips to make the back to school experience as smooth as possible:

1. Make sure to separate needs from wants before you go shopping. Ask your child what’s most important for them. Maybe it is a new backpack, lunchbox or pair of shoes.
2. Create an after school routine and include snack time.
3. Make sure you check all medical requirements and updates.
4. Visit the school website or call for a list of required school supplies.
5. Review the school dress code before shopping for clothes and accessories.
6. Find out whether your child’s teacher prefers to communicate by phone, email or written note.
7. Know what your child is expected to learn in his/her grade level.
8. Read the school handbook and make sure your child understands the rules.
9. Mark school events on the family calendar.

10.  Most importantly, discuss your child’s feelings about starting school and talk over any concerns.

Here’s to a great school year!

More About Amy McCready
Parenting expert Amy McCready has been creating and delivering training programs for over 20 years.

Amy founded Positive Parenting Solutions, Inc. in 2004 and developed the popular and successful Breakthrough Course that has changed the lives of thousands of parents through in-person seminars, speeches and online parenting training webinars.

Due to demand from parents around the country and abroad, Positive Parenting Solutions Online was developed in 2008 to give parents everywhere the skills, knowledge and tools to correct their children’s misbehaviors permanently without nagging, reminding or yelling.

Amy has recently been a guest on The Today Show, ABC News, Fox & Friends, MSNBC and The Rachel Ray Show. She is also the author of a new book, If I have to Tell You One More Time.

For even more information, log on to www.amymccready.com

Hope you enjoyed Travel Publicist Kendra Thornton’s summer travel tips! As a trusted travel insider, her secret travel agent info will come in handy for you and your family. After all, any money saved is a welcome addition to time spent traveling.

Here are more of Kendra’s summer travel tips:

Travel Planning

An important tip for travelers is that the best deals can be found online. For example, right now, Expedia.com is holding the biggest sale in its history! Many of the hotels participating in the sale are offering customers “freebies” such as spa credits, food and beverage credits and gift cards. Plus, you can find up to 30% off hotel and package bookings on the nearly 11,000 hotel properties featured in the sale. And if you make a qualifying booking by July 4th, you will receive a free $50 dollar gas card. With gas prices as high as they are, we all need one of those!
Another thing you may not know is that Tuesdays generally hold the best deals to find ticket prices and the cheapest day to fly is usually Wednesday, followed by Tuesday and Saturday. Early morning flights tend to be most cost-effective and help maximize your time at your destination as well!

If you see one airline offering a certain price point and there are other carriers you are enrolled with that fly the same route, keep checking your top choice. Airlines usually follow each other in the release of discount fares.

Don’t forget about parking! Reserve your airport parking spot in advance. One great site, Parknflynetwork.com, offers nationwide airport parking, and travelers who book online in advance are guaranteed a parking spot. You also save money by paying in advance. This way, there is no fee when exiting. This is great when traveling during busy holiday or summer travel seasons.

Using Social Media

Travel is such a social experience. We plan our trips based on recommendations, travel with our friends and family, and later want to share our memories. Visa’s Memory Mapper application uses Google Maps satellite technology and a user’s own photos, videos and captions to chronicle a visual story of their travels for a unique keepsake to share with friends and family via Facebook, email and Twitter. Create your own for your summer travels at www.facebook.com/visa.

Here’s another tip; find your favorite airlines, hotels, and other travel related companies on Facebook or Twitter and “friend”, “like” or “follow” them. This way, you can get timely access to private sales and special discounts not always advertised to the public.

Twitter is a great way to put yourself out there and see what will come back to you. So tweet wish list destinations, upgrades and travel woes – it can all pay off!

Travel Destination Ideas and tips

Finicky teens are easily the hardest age group to plan for! So for cool travel ideas for tween and teens (5th – 12th graders), look into opportunities to expand their world views, stretch horizons and build lifelong friendships. People to People Student Ambassador Programs does just that! They provide authentic cultural experiences that extend the classroom and bring textbooks to life. Parents can learn more at www.peopletopeople.com.

Even if you don’t have the budget or vacation time for an extended trip, plan weekend getaways. One way to save on weekend trips to major cities like New York, Chicago or San Francisco is find out where the financial/business districts are and check hotel rates that cater to business travelers. While the rates are typically high during the week when they are full of professionals, you’ll often find great deals on the weekends when most visitors are tourists and looking to stay near all of the well-known areas for theater, shopping, etc.
Destinations
But don’t forget your main travel purpose…the destination! Here are some thoughts on hot spots to consider:

• Seattle is one of America’s most unique destinations, and summer is definitely the time to go. The sun is out, the skies are clear and the temperatures are comfortable. Granted, hotel rates are higher and tourists are prevalent, but the weather makes for a more than fair trade-off.

 

• Montreal is a great choice for travelers looking for a taste of European culture without the trans-Atlantic flight. Fascinating historic sites, hundreds of shopping venues, world-class eateries and a pulsating nightlife scene will keep you busy for at least a week.

 

• If you thought the Caribbean was off-limits due to tropical storm threats, you’ll be happy to hear that Aruba’s location outside the hurricane belt makes this island a great summer getaway spot. Home to stunning beaches, thriving cities and the rugged terrain of Arikok National Park, Aruba offers a variety of ways to fill your days.

 

• For travelers who want a change from the beach, summer is the perfect time to try traditional winter destinations. You can get great deals and stunning landscapes. Places like Tahoe, Vail, Aspen and Telluride offer hiking, water sports, and landscapes – all without needing a heavy parka!

 

• Summer may be Myrtle Beach’s busy season, but with increased air service and free events night and day all season long, it can also be a time to find a vacation full of affordable fun. With tens of thousands of rooms in the Myrtle Beach area, travelers should still be able to find a variety of options to suit different budgets and vacation styles.

 

• San Diego is the new Orlando, with a range of family-friendly resorts, great spas, a fun and safe nightlife and lots of regional attractions like SeaWorld, the Zoo and the beach.

 

• Summer is the perfect time for families to explore a major city, when great weather and fewer crowds allow a leisurely pace. New York City, Washington D.C., Chicago or Boston are all terrific for exploring museums and exhibits while also offering kid-friendly parks, restaurants and activities.

Did you get a chance to see or hear Kelly Packard give out her Summer Survival Guide? As a former Baywatch Beauty and now mom of three, I’m sure her tips will come in handy!  I have to admit that after such a rough winter, I am really looking forward to summer more than ever.

Here’s more Summer Survival information:

SWIMMING- We all know kids love to swim. But while we think of swimming safety rules (like never leaving our kids unsupervised), most parents don’t think about what’s in the water where our kids are swimming.  To make sure the water is safe, clean and healthy, try AquaChek test strips. You can test pool and spa water yourself, and the strips are available at most pool stores and cost about $10.00 per bottle.  All you have to do is dip one of the test strips in the water and wait 15 seconds before comparing it to the color chart on the bottle to see how clean the water is. You can even take the test strips to public pools! For more information, go to www.AquaChek.com.

Another tip is to make sure you stay away from air-filled swimming aids as a substitute for approved life vests. In addition, always remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren’t tempted to reach in for them.

ROAD TRIPS- Everyone loves a good road trip during the summer, but dealing with the kids and a spouse can be a bit overwhelming! To make the whole experience as stress-free as possible, make a list of things to do and places to see for each day you’re on the road. Sometimes this requires some research, and a great resource for everything from amusement parks to restaurants is YP.com. It has reviews to help you decide on which places to go, and better yet, it has thousands of coupons to help save money. When we’re on the road, I use the YP mobile app on my phone for last minute searches and even driving directions.  It is a real lifesaver and free to download! www.yp.com

When in the car, bring plenty of snacks and DVDs for the kids to watch. Coloring books and crayons also work well for keeping the little ones entertained. Here’s a good trick: Surprise them with a new coloring or reading book every time you stop for gas. It’s inexpensive, but will bring a smile to their face.

SUN SAFETY- With the weather warming up across the country, families are spending more time outdoors enjoying the sun. But with skin cancer being the most common form of cancer in the U.S., it’s important to protect yourself from sun exposure. Banana Boat® offers a wide range of product options that provide today’s busy family with reliable protection without worry, so the fun can go on and on. This sun season, Banana Boat® is setting out to raise $101,000 for The Skin Cancer Foundation by “sun certifying” 101,000 Americans. All you have to do to get “sun certified” is go to the Banana Boat Facebook page and take a short Sun 101 quiz, and Banana Boat will donate $1 to The Skin Cancer Foundation on your behalf. http://www.facebook.com/BananaBoatBrand

If you’re looking for a few extra summer fun tips for the whole family to enjoy, the below list offers 10 great ideas to help make this summer the best one ever!

1. Plan a picnic
2. Plant a garden
3. Visit the library
4. Camp in the backyard
5. Create a backyard water park
6. Plan a scavenger hunt
7. Put on a play
8. Create a sidewalk chalk art show
9. Make music
10. Have a yard sale

Welcome to Moretipsforyou.com!  By now, you’ve probably seen Mark Brunetz, co-star of Clean House, on TV offering a few spring cleaning tips to get you, your husband, boyfriend or housemates involved in the cleaning process.

It’s easy for household cleaning to get out of hand, especially when one person ends up doing all the work. This can be hard to conquer!  The key here is to start with small areas in your home. Assign these areas to different persons: You can take a desk drawer, your husband or boyfriend takes a kitchen shelf, someone else takes the laundry room.

Speaking of the laundry room…

It’s so easy for laundry areas to get out of control, so organization will help you in the long run. Make sure you have designated places for everything.  And don’t forget freshness. Bounce has a very cool option for getting great freshness in your laundry by offering both the dryer bar and dryer sheets. (www.facebook.com/bounce) Once you’ve cleaned out a small space, stop for the day!  Relish in your accomplishments.  It’s better to leave yourself wanting to do more than it is to get frustrated at the end of a long day.

Don’t forget your cleaning tools…

When you’re moving to other rooms of the house, it’s amazing how easy it is to get things done if you have the right tools for the job.  For example, most people dread cleaning the bathrooms, but it doesn’t have to be so bad. Scotch-Brite Bathroom Solutions has a new line of cleaning products designed with the unique challenges of a bathroom in mind. From a grout cleaner to tile scrubbers to a nook and cranny sponge, the customized designs make sure you won’t waste time using a one-shape-fits-all cleaning tool. (www.scotchbrite.com)

Now, if you have pets, it’s also very important to make sure you stay on top of any fur around the house. You don’t want it to collect over time.  For this, I recommend using the Scotch Fur Fighter Pet Hair Sweeper.  It provides an easy way to remove pet hair from hard surface floors and hard-to-reach places like along baseboards and under furniture and appliances. (www.furfighter.com) Both products are available at retailers nationwide.

Here are a few more exclusive cleaning tips from Mark Brunetz that will make your spring cleaning a breeze!

1. Turn the Page on Old Magazines.  A lot of us buy magazines over the holidays but less than 20% of them ever get recycled.  If you want to remember something from a magazine, tear out the page and file it or scan it and store it on your computer.  This way, once you’ve read it, you can recycle it.
2. Baby Your Plants.  Plants that live outdoors are naturally cleaned by rain and wind, but when indoors, they need their own spring cleaning.  For real plants, get an old, clean t-shirt and use tepid water to gently wipe down the leaves.  For artificial plants, gently wipe down the leaves with standard baby wipes to give them a beautiful shine.
3. Pillow Talk.  Spring is the perfect time to change out decorative throw pillows, but whether you keep them out or store them, it’s also the best time to clean them.  To remove winter stains and odors, take the covers off and gently wash or dry clean according to the care instructions on the label.
4. Rest Assured.  Most manufacturers recommend turning or flipping your mattress four times a year.  Before you do, be sure to deodorize it and cover it with a mattress protector to prevent against dust mites, pollen and pet dander.
5. Corralling Your Collectibles.  A great way to deal with odd, decorative objects cluttering up the home is to group them together on a single tray or bookshelf to create a unified look.  This will help keep your countertops clear and make a wonderful design statement at the same time.
6. Clean Underfoot.  It’s important to clean all the area rugs in the home at least once a year.  Vacuum and deodorize both sides of the rug as well as the floor underneath.  And for wool rugs, place a cedar plank typically used for barbecuing under all of your low sitting furniture to prevent damage from moths.
7. Clean Sport.  Before the kids get their hands on their summer sporting equipment that’s been stored up for the winter, wipe it down with a disinfecting bleach solution.   This will not only help prevent infections, but the kids will look like All-Stars.
8. A Fan of Cleaning.   With the warmer months upon us, it’s the perfect time to adjust the direction of the blades on a ceiling fan so that they turn counterclockwise and cool the air below.  Before you do, be sure to clean them with a rag and soapy warm water.  This will help keep your rooms cool and dust-free as we move into summer.
9. Clean Your Cleaners.  After your cleaners have done the dirty work, it’s important to give them a good cleaning.  Sanitize all your rags and floor bonnets in the washing machine then run an empty cycle with a cup of bleach.  Wash your sponges and scrubbers in the dishwasher then run a rinse cycle with a cup of vinegar.
10. The Great Outdoors.  An easy way to clean outside items is to buy an affordable power wash nozzle that hooks up to your existing hose.  This is a simple way to wash down the outside of your house, clean concrete driveways and give seasonal outdoor furniture a fresh, new look.

For even more tips, click on the link above to watch Mark in action!