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Archive for June, 2013|Monthly archive page

Internet Safety for Kids

In General on June 26, 2013 at 4:49 am

presolThe Internet is the answer to a parent’s need to provide unlimited information for children’s educational needs. It is also a parent’s nightmare of uncensored information readily accessible to anyone who knows how to click and surf the Web.

The World Wide Web is a wealth of infinite possibilities—a collection of all knowledge every produced or accumulated by mankind since the dawn of time, and available on smartphone the size of a shirt pocket. The scary part is that a 5-year-old child is probably savvier about its use than the majority of adults around her or him. So what’s a parent to do?

First of all, don’t wait until some ideal time to broach the subject with your children. Start early and establish definite boundaries. The Internet can be fun for kids, so start with entertainment and games, then slip in a lesson or two about what is good information and what is bad. Most 2-year-olds can operate a smartphone and click around a computer, so it’s not too early to teach boundaries and rules.

There is a fine line between protecting children and completely invading their privacy. Even kids entering young adulthood should be allowed a certain degree of privacy in order to develop into responsible adults who can make good choices for themselves. Parents have a responsibility to guide children to good choices.

Guiding children to good choices

Parents should develop open discussions with children early on. Assure them it is OK to talk about any issues they face. Stay informed about current cyber threats and trends so you can teach your children to be safe. Some of the most common threats are sexual predators, hate speech, bullying, phishing, radicalization and more. Find out what the latest threats are and develop a plan for how to tackle each one.

Keep your computer in a common area of your home. Kids are less likely to encounter online trouble if an adult is nearby. “Friend” and follow their online activities. Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest make it easy for anyone to post any sort of information online, even information that is dangerous or inappropriate. If your child knows you are interested in their activities and social media sites, they may pause before clicking on that link or hitting that send button.

Parents also have access to online monitoring tools such as TrueCare, Avira and Instant Checkmate. These monitoring systems are more about identifying danger signs than about spying. They can target keywords like alcohol, drugs and suicide, and send weekly reports to parents. They can also alert parents to potential risks such as bullying, stalking or abuse. Avira will email you if a sex offender friends your child or if inappropriate photos of him or her appear on the Internet. With Instant Checkmate, you can find out if a stranger is showing an interest in your child and get a comprehensive background check on the individual in question.

Stay informed so you don’t have to stand behind your child and watch over his or her shoulder when they are on the computer. You will rest easier and your child will be safer for your continued involvement.

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Rick Dover, Knoxville Businessman, Explains Efforts to Rehabilitate Communities

In Lifestyle on June 16, 2013 at 6:18 am

Rick-Dover-Historic-BuildingRick Dover, Knoxville general manager of Family Pride Corporation, has a long-standing commitment to preserving the history of communities in East Tennessee. By seeking out buildings that were once a vital part of their communities, Rick Dover and Knoxville staff have found that they are able to give back to each of these areas in multiple ways.

According to Rick Dover, Knoxville is home to many buildings that have weathered decades of use. By locating these properties and finding a way to restore and reuse them today, Rick Dover, a Knoxville businessman, has found that Family Pride Corporation is able to help stabilize the areas in which the buildings reside. This has been Family Pride Corporation’s hallmark since it was founded in 1993, according to Rick Dover. Knoxville has been a particular target of Family Pride Corporation’s efforts, as Rick Dover of Knoxville explains, since Family Pride Corporation is an East Tennessee company.

Throughout his career, Rick Dover, a Knoxville resident, has worked hard to restore historic buildings. This includes rehabilitating inner-city areas, Rick Dover of Knoxville explains, in addition to neighborhood preservation and historic projects. Rick Dover and Knoxville area staff members at Family Pride Corporation believe the history of an area is often its heritage. Being able to save historic structures allows communities to once again enjoy buildings that are a vital part of the city, Rick Dover of Knoxville has found.

Over the years, Rick Dover of Knoxville has noticed that many longstanding buildings have been left abandoned. According to Rick Dover, Knoxville is one of these areas, but such abandoned buildings can be found anywhere. These properties can lower property values and harm the morale of a neighborhood, according to Rick Dover. Knoxville and surrounding areas have many of these properties, and Family Pride Corporation works hard to turn these structures into renewed buildings that can be enjoyed for many years.

According to Rick Dover, Knoxville properties in need of refurbishing are in Family Pride Corporation’s long-range plans. Family Pride Corporation sees an immediate need for senior communities that provide varying levels of care, according to Rick Dover. Knoxville especially has a large population of aging baby boomers interested in independent living. Through his Family Pride Corporation communities, Rick Dover and his Knoxville staff are able to provide comfortable living that feels like a home away from home.

Each year, Rick Dover, a Knoxville businessman, and his team at Family Pride Corporation are able to add new communities and properties to their business portfolio. Each property has its own charm, Rick Dover of Knoxville has found, because they have been refurbished from a community treasure. But Rick Dover of Knoxville emphasizes that Family Pride Corporation’s goal is not just to save buildings but also to revitalize communities. The company does that through both saving historic treasures and providing comfortable, high-quality care to the treasured family members of the communities in which Rick Dover and Knoxville team members work.

Adjusting a Diet to Promote Weight Loss

In Health and Beauty on June 14, 2013 at 10:12 am

presentationsolutionsFor people hoping to lose weight, a few healthy habits can contribute greatly to their success.

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is an essential factor in fending off weight gain. Those who average less than five hours of sleep each night are at the most risk for what nutritionists refer to as “center weighted fat.” This type of fat is one that is prominent in the midsection. Just a few added pounds can make a big difference. Those who do not get enough sleep often find themselves riddled with visceral fat. Visceral fat surrounds the organs and causes a number of life-threatening diseases such as diabetes and stroke.

The added sugar in fruit juices and sodas is another major contributor to weight gain.  An alarming number of Americans are suffering from early diabetes due to their large consumption of these unhealthy drinks. Switching out one soda per day with a glass of water will save a person nearly 55,000 calories each year. The resulting caloric deficit averages out to almost 27 pounds during a 12-month period.

The fructose in most sugary beverages will cause the pancreas to produce abundant amounts of insulin, which contributes to the number of diabetes cases in the United States. Although most people consider it a good alternative, the consumption of diet soda will inhibit the brain from processing caloric intake due to its sweetness.

Water is still the best way to go. Water allows for better cellular rejuvenation while saturating the cells and flushing out unhealthy toxins. It is recommended that adults drink 48-64 ounces of water each day.

Healthy fats like monounsaturated and saturated fats – as well as Omega-3s – are actually good for the body. However, it is best to stay away from trans fats. Trans fats are most prevalent in margarines and spreads, frozen foods and sugary desserts. Hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats, which are often found in processed foods like donuts and cookies and in fried foods, also have an ill effect on the body.

By following a few simple tips, the dream of weight loss can soon become a reality.

 

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Integrity Spas on the Types of Spa Models

In Health and Beauty on June 12, 2013 at 6:59 pm

Integrity-Spas-Fiji-TV-Hot-Tub-Spa2Located in Leawood, Kansas, Integrity Spas is the nation’s premier online retailer of luxury, custom-built spas. Integrity Spas provides a full line of luxurious portable spas. Here, an Integrity Spas spokesperson answers questions about the variety of hot tub models and how to choose the right one.

Q. Of all the different Integrity Spas hot tub model options, what are the basic types to choose from?

Integrity Spas: Hot tubs come in a dizzying array of shapes and sizes with lots of options. The number of choices and features can be confusing, but there are some questions a buyer can ask us at Integrity Spas to make the decision easier.

Q. What kind of questions?

Integrity Spas: First, let’s look at seating configuration: The first thing to think about is how many people are going to be using the spa. There’s no reason to purchase an eight-person spa if just one or two people will use it regularly. The larger the spa the more water, chemicals and energy are needed to maintain it, and the bigger space it requires.

Q. Are there different kinds of seats?

Integrity Spas: Hot tubs generally come with a choice of lounge seats, contoured seating or open bench style seating. Lounge seats allow a person to lie back and relax. Contoured seats envelope a person much like a recliner chair with jets in all the right places to provide a fantastic hydrotherapy massage. But with contoured seating, it’s harder to move around as freely and you can’t add more people than seats. On the other hand, open or bench type seating allows more freedom of movement along with the opportunity to fit more people into the spa by sharing seats. Integrity Spas has models that feature each type and some in combination.

Q. What about accessories?

Integrity Spas: There are Integrity Spas with ozonators, salt systems, UV systems, stereos and even TVs. But buyers should understand their purposes and whether they’ll need those features.

Q. Can you describe some for us?

Integrity Spas: An ozonator, for example, is a device that generates ozone gas that is injected in the water to keep water cleaner and clearer. Ozone is pH neutral and naturally kills bacteria in the spa. Ozonators are upgrades on most spas, but ozonators come standard in all Integrity Spas tubs. Ozonators do not replace chemicals but they do significantly reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain an Integrity Spas unit.

Q. What is a salt system?

Integrity Spas: Salt systems take salt that is added into the hot tub water and turn it into pure bromine to sanitize the spa. Integrity Spas offers the ISIS Bromine Generator as an upgrade.

Q. How about a UV system?

Integrity Spas: Ultraviolet light systems are relatively new. They generate UV-C or germicidal ultraviolet to treat 99.9 percent of the waterborne pathogens in water. Basically, a high intensity UV light bombards the water in the spa. UV systems are relatively inexpensive and are available as an upgrade on all Integrity Spas.

Q. Anything else you’d like to add?

Integrity Spas: Integrity Spas offers a full line of spas that feature a built in TV, DVD and stereo system. The entertainment system adds a whole new way of enjoying your Integrity Spas hot tub in your new outdoor oasis.

 

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David Contarino Explains Key Staff and Services at Southwestern Title & Escrow Inc.

In Personal, Professionals on June 10, 2013 at 5:56 am

David ContarinoThough he sold the company in 2009, David Contarino is still proud that Southwestern Title & Escrow redefined what service means in the real estate industry.

Southwestern Title & Escrow (ST&E) was founded in 1994 and opened in 1995 recalls David Contarino. Along with wife Linda Marquette Contarino, the couple opened the doors with just eight employees and the intent to help people insure their dreams through a local and reliable source.

David Contarino explains that ST&E offers real estate customers title insurance and escrow resources. As a locally owned company, David Contarino says there are numerous benefits to working with ST&E, including the company’s strong link to local commerce. Included in the company’s lineup of local partnerships are the Santa Fe Association of Realtors, the New Mexico Land Title Association, and the Santa Fe Area Home Builder Association. David Contarino notes that ST&E is also active in the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce.

Company leadership

David Contarino and Linda Marquette Contarino sold the company in 2009 to Santa Fe native John Fox, a veteran real estate attorney. Fox has been a figure in the Santa Fe legal community since 1978. He is a second-generation law professional, explains David Contarino, and worked alongside his father, Robert Fox, until the mid-1990s.

Today, ST&E continues the mission that inspired David Contarino and Linda Marquette Contarino to open this now very successful title company. According to David Contarino, the title and exam department is managed by Mike Thompson. Thompson is an industry pioneer with more than 20 years of experience, reports David Contarino. With nearly 40 years performing title searches, Senior Examiner Fred Barela is a stickler for quality. Senior Policy Preparer Joyce Arellano has diligently served the industry for more than two decades, says David Contarino.

Lead Escrow Officer Kay Jones has stayed one step ahead of the ever changing title and escrow environment since the 1980s. David Contarino emphasizes that Jones provides each and every client with the greatest protection available, while always keeping budget concerns in the forefront of her mind. David Contarino says that Jones is a great member of ST&E’s team of escrow officers, which includes Cassandra Vigil-Mondragon, Maria Salazar and Carla Pogemiller. David Contarino reveals that Pogemiller is something of an industry leader, with more than 30 years of experience. She has received several awards including affiliate of the year from the Santa Fe Association of REALTORS®.

The closing process

David Contarino explains that, as a title and escrow company, ST&E is given the important task of making sure the real estate transaction is protected. According to David Contarino, the company discovers, identifies and remedies potential conflicts to eliminate title hazards that may interfere with the intended purchasers’ home-ownership rights. David Contarino emphasizes that a successful closing always begins with a complete and accurate title search. Essentially, the title company is ensuring the homeowner that they have performed a diligent search and there are no issues at signing. David Contarino explains that the search may include divorce records, sales history, deeds and mortgages, and previous court judgments, liens and delinquent taxes.

David Contarino remains an avid supporter of Southwestern Title and Escrow. He is active in the real estate community and owns several commercial and residential properties throughout the Santa Fe area. David Contarino is also a political consultant with nearly 30 years of experience in both politics and real estate.

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Kosher Supervision of America (KSA Kosher) on Benefits of Keeping Kosher in Today’s Market

In General on June 6, 2013 at 10:52 am

KSA KosherKosher Supervision of America (KSA Kosher), a kosher certification not-for-profit agency in the western United States, has seen a rapid increase in the popularity of kosher food products in recent years. According to KSA, kosher certification has turned into a real coup for many food providers.

Presentation Solutions: Is the popularity of kosher foods increasing gradually – or is it a marked improvement?

KSA Kosher: There is a much higher demand these days for kosher products. Although the practice of keeping kosher is attached to Judaism, people of various denominations and cultures continue to follow these dietary standards.

Presentation Solutions: Has the kosher foods trend been adopted by grocers?

KSA Kosher: Our experience is that supermarkets and health food stores are continually seeking out opportunities to put kosher food products on their shelves.

Presentation Solutions: How many kosher food items are there?

KSA Kosher: Consumers have a choice of over 75,000 kosher food items on the market.

Presentation Solutions: Are these mainly from one company?

KSA Kosher: More than 10,000 companies are involved in kosher food production.

Presentation Solutions: So do consumers see a lot of variety?

KSA Kosher: Absolutely. An additional 3,000 products are introduced to the marketplace annually for the first time.

Presentation Solutions: This must translate into huge sales.

KSA Kosher: Consumers now spend about $165 billion on products certified as kosher, compared with an average of $250 million in the late 1970s.

Presentation Solutions: Do consumers truly believe kosher is better?

KSA Kosher: Yes. Surveys regularly note that consumers hold kosher products in higher regard, at a rate of 25% on average.

Presentation Solutions: Why do you think that is?

KSA Kosher: Food with the kosher certification is consistently viewed as being a higher quality product.

Presentation Solutions: What should be attributed to the rise in popularity of kosher-certified foods?

KSA Kosher: As health becomes a growing concern, consumers are paying more attention than ever to the ingredients listing on their food products – along with the nutritional information display.

Presentation Solutions: Are kosher diets vegetarian?

KSA Kosher: This is a common misconception. Poultry, beef and fish are often considered kosher.

Presentation Solutions: Is preparation important?

KSA Kosher: Kosher birds and mammals have to be slaughtered in a manner that falls within a firm set of standards.

Presentation Solutions: Is kosher food just for Jewish consumers?

KSA Kosher: Jewish consumers comprise about 45% of the kosher food market, but many others are seeking out kosher food as well.

Presentation Solutions: Who are other prominent kosher consumers?

KSA Kosher: Millions of Muslims follow a similar routine called halal, and they make up about 20% of the market.

Presentation Solutions: What other religions might practice being kosher?

KSA Kosher: Christian sects such as Seventh Day Adventists hold specific dietary standards that are similar to Judaism.  For example, pork is not allowed for Seventh Day Adventists.

Presentation Solutions: What about those individuals who are not Jewish but find they have specific dietary needs?

KSA Kosher: The lactose intolerant, or those who have a milk allergy, often prefer following a kosher diet as well.

Presentation Solutions: How can those consumers determine which ones are dairy products?

KSA Kosher: These individuals must be diligent about checking labels before consumption. A bold letter “D” generally indicates a dairy product.

Presentation Solutions: How are non-dairy products separated from their counterparts?

KSA Kosher: Products which contain any dairy ingredient will carry the traditional kosher symbol with the letter “D.”

About KSA Kosher: At KSA, kosher certification is the top priority. As the leading kosher certification agency in the western United States, KSA has received commendations from numerous synagogues and rabbis throughout the world for its dedication to kosher practices.

CrossFit: An Outstanding Fitness Program

In Health and Beauty on June 5, 2013 at 4:03 pm

According to numerous fitness trainers, CrossFit is the perfect program for individuals regardless of their current levels of fitness or their overwhelming schedules. The CrossFit fitness program has become the standard for numerous military training and law enforcement programs throughout the United States. By requiring a broad range of movements, CrossFit provides an all-inclusive training program that other workouts don’t.

The CrossFit program presents a mixture of body weight exercise, aerobic exercise, Olympic weight lifting and gymnastics. Workouts are generally short—30 minutes or less—with intense movements. CrossFit is featured in more than 6,000 gyms across the country. It also serves as a regular routine for high school and college sports teams, as well as the Miami Marlins.

The CrossFit program is intended to be personalized, so that it can be enjoyed by both weekend warriors and more casual users. Regardless of past experience, people can adjust the program to fit their own comfort zones and unique capabilities. The CrossFit program demands various degrees of intensity, and not different forms of activity.

In fact, the whole family can follow the CrossFit program. Even small children have found it to be an interesting exercise adventure. Teaching the importance of exercise to children early is an effective way to curb childhood obesity. These lessons could also prevent future illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.

The CrossFit program can be completed either in a CrossFit training complex, or at home with nominal equipment. A CrossFit certified trainer assists trainees as they embark along the road to wellness. Those who choose to start the CrossFit program at home are advised that it is a powerful workout, and it must be practiced with care in the beginning stages.

CrossFit is a physically demanding and effective workout and should be considered as a major step toward personal growth and change. Many first-time users discover that the Workout of the Day (WOD) is the most difficult aspect of CrossFit. Beginners must start slowly and visit the CrossFit website at crossfit.com for more information. The website maintains message boards for questions or advice.

 

 

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Mallory Fleming Explains the History of Volleyball

In Health and Beauty on June 3, 2013 at 6:13 pm

Mallory FlemingAs a competitive player for more than 10 years, Mallory Fleming has studied the history of volleyball and its various incarnations. In this interview with Presentation Solutions, Mallory Fleming describes standard rules and regulations and discusses the sport’s international popularity.

Presentation Solutions: What’s the basic premise of volleyball?

Mallory Fleming: A court is divided in half by a net. Each team features six players on either side of the net, separated into two rows: front and back. The objective is to return the ball to the other side successfully within three hits.

Presentation Solutions: Are there different rules in other countries?

Mallory Fleming: Although minor differences exist depending on the competitive level, most international, national and domestic leagues use the same setup.

Presentation Solutions: How do players accomplish this?

Mallory Fleming: Players must use an approved motion—either overhand or underhand—to strike the ball. To return the ball successfully, the team must avoid hitting it out of bounds or into the net. Also, if the ball hits the ground before the return, the other team receives a point.

Presentation Solutions: What actions are prohibited?

Mallory Fleming: Players are not permitted to catch or hold the ball. Blocking serves is against the rules as well.

Presentation Solutions: When did volleyball’s popularity spread?

Mallory Fleming: In the 1940s, the American-based sport became more widely played in Europe, Asia and the Caribbean.

Presentation Solutions: Is there a leading volleyball organization?

Mallory Fleming: The World Volleyball League was created in 1990 to provide a platform for the sport’s athletes and administrators.

Presentation Solutions: What other forms of volleyball are there?

Mallory Fleming: Beach volleyball has quickly developed into an international favorite, with the first official league beginning in Southern California in the early 1950s.

Presentation Solutions: What about volleyball in the Olympics?

Mallory Fleming: Volleyball made its Olympic debut at the 1964 Games in Tokyo. Beach volleyball appeared at the Olympics in 1996.

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Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure on Superfoods for Seniors

In Lifestyle on June 3, 2013 at 7:27 am

Kelley Hamilton BonaventureThe best conditions for a self-determined and healthy life at any age are a balanced and age-appropriate diet along with adequate exercise. Different foods have different benefits, but a group of so-called “superfoods” appear to rise above others because of their exceptional nutritional value, says Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure Senior Living. As chief executive officer for the company, Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure has had extensive experience with the senior population. Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure knows that from the second half of life, it is increasingly important to maintain a fitness and health routine. At older ages, the body, daily habits, and overall abilities change, points out Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure. According to Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure, seniors should now increasingly turn to a healthy diet. Below, Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure talks about superfoods and the benefits they provide.

Presentation Solutions: Welcome to Presentation Solutions, and thank you for joining us.

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Thanks for having me.

Presentation Solutions: Why is it crucial for seniors to maintain a healthy diet?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: After we turn 50, our bodies start to remember pretty much everything we eat and any diet sins are no longer forgotten. The body now takes longer to recover. Metabolism slows down and therefore the daily caloric intake needs to be reduced.

Presentation Solutions: Many seniors appear underweight. Why do you think that is?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: As we age, our natural hunger and thirst decrease and food tastes less intensively. Also, shopping and cooking can be more difficult in some circumstances. All this can lead to malnutrition in seniors.

Presentation Solutions: What are superfoods?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Superfood is a term sometimes used to describe foods with high phytonutrient content that may confer extra health benefits.

Presentation Solutions: What is a popular superfood that’s prepared at Bonaventure Senior Living?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Our chefs prepare nutritious and delicious food every day. One of the most popular dishes is salmon. Salmon is a superfood as it’s full of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s can reduce heart disease and lower blood pressure.

Presentation Solutions: Not everyone likes or eats fish. What would you recommend for a vegetarian?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Asparagus, blueberries, quinoa. Blueberries are high in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol. Asparagus has been found to protect the prostate. Quinoa is a complete protein and filled with vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.

Presentation Solutions: Is there a super breakfast food?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Our residents really enjoy oatmeal. Oatmeal is low fat, high in protein and full of iron and other minerals. Greek yogurt contains protein and digestive-friendly probiotics.

Presentation Solutions: What about desserts?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Fresh fruits and berries make simple, yet tasty desserts. Some studies indicate that consuming small amounts of dark chocolate on a regular basis can lower blood pressure and decrease the rate of stroke in women.

Presentation Solutions: Is there a certain way superfoods should be eaten?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Some foods contain higher levels of nutrients when they are fresh, while others have nutrients that are more available to the body when they are cooked or combined with fat.

Presentation Solutions: Can seniors get the benefits of superfoods in daily vitamins or supplements?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: No, a pill can never replace the whole food.

 

Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure is in the business of providing comfort and value to seniors who seek an independent and fulfilling lifestyle. Kelley Hamilton and Bonaventure staff deliver care that keeps seniors safe, healthy and happy. Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure currently resides in Oregon.