.: Sebastian Smith Profile and Articles
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1). Is Your City Among the Nation's 'Funniest?'If, as the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine, then the United States is one healthy nation.
Research commissioned by Shoebox, Hallmark's irreverent greeting card line, set out to find the hotbeds of humor in America. The result: Americans coast-to-coast love a good laugh.
Since California is home to movie and television studios, it's got to be the funniest state in the Union.
2). A Celebration of Life Begins With Lunch
On an ordinary afternoon in St. Augustine, Fla., a group of extraordinary people met at a local restaurant for a single purpose - to celebrate their accomplishments, share inspiration and encourage each other while enjoying a meal.
They came for their weekly Friday lunch from all walks of life: parents and realtors, mortgage brokers and doctor's assistants, life coaches and flower shop employees.
3). Watch Satellite TV in the Lap of Limo Luxury
The bigger and flashier, the better. That's the trend in limousines today. And as the limos' exteriors have become more elaborate, the interiors have gotten a series of sophisticated upgrades as well.
From mirrored ceilings and extended moon roofs to mini bars and even hot tubs, today's limos ensure that occupants have a luxuriously good time.
Nowadays, the limousine is not only a fashionable domain for corporate big shots and Hollywood moguls, but also for the masses to add splashes of distinction to special events.
4). Paul McCartney Joins Music Education Cause
Even though experts have shown that music education improves performance in and out of the classroom, increases SAT scores and keeps kids in school, budget cuts have been breaking up marching bands and silencing school choruses across the country.
To combat this trend, Fidelity Investments joined music icon Paul McCartney to launch a new public charity, the Music Lives Foundation, aimed at increasing funding for music education programs in schools.
5). Quilting Bees Are Back And Now Meet Online
Quilting bees, those time-honored gatherings where quilters practice and share their craft, have never quite gone away. Thanks to thriving online communities, quilters are continuing to find ways to connect with each other in today's busy world.
For centuries, neighborhood women in the United States used the bees not only to make quilts, but also to socialize and catch up on the news of the day.
6). Country Star's Hallmark CD Pays Tribute to Motherhood
Platinum-selling country music star Sara Evans describes motherhood as "the most amazing thing a woman can do."
Like most working moms, Evans has learned to prioritize work life and motherhood. Her three children, Audrey, Avery and Olivia, join her on tour on a custom, kid-friendly tour bus.
"My kids travel on the road with me," she said. "I try to absorb as much time with them as I can before I have to get ready for the show.
7). Company Gives Net Users New Way to Listen to Music
An online marketing and technology solutions company is offering Internet users a new, easy way to listen to music on their computers.
Centale Inc. recently launched its Music on Demand program, a patent-pending algorithmic search online application that allows you to use Microsoft's Windows Media Player as an instantaneous connection to search the Internet for millions of audio and video files and listen to or view them without having to take the time to download any files.
8). Unique Movies Can Boost Pupils' Reading Proficiency
Does your child read at a proficient reading level? National statistics paint a bleak picture.
According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 90 percent of eighth-graders in Washington, D.C., 81 percent in New Mexico, 80 percent in Mississippi and Nevada, 78 percent in Louisiana, California and Hawaii, 74 percent in Texas, and 73 percent in Florida were reading at a level below proficiency in 2003.
9). Satellite TV's New Era: In the Air and on the Road
Satellite dishes used to be massive metal eyesores that took up yard space, were a hassle to install and were too expensive for most consumers.
The technology has entered a new era, however, and satellite TV systems are now affordable and easy to install - not to mention that the dishes take up a mere fraction of the space they once required.
Today, more than 20 million U.
10). Hollywood's A-List Has A Brand-New Ride
Motorcycles, once reserved for rebels and aficionados, have now garnered worldwide attention. One particular low-riding custom chopper has even landed itself on the red carpet, making it one of the most photographed bikes in the world and a favorite among Hollywood's elite.
The TrimSpa "Race Car Bike," built by Orange County Choppers for TrimSpa and.
11). Find Family Fun This Winter
Summer may be over, but the winter holiday season is another perfect opportunity for a family getaway enjoyed by all.
According to a recent survey sponsored by Yahoo! Travel and National Geographic Traveler, over 92 percent of respondents plan to take at least one vacation with family in the upcoming year.
Many families seek a one-of-a-kind experience, but most importantly a vacation that has something for everyone.
12). Top-of-the-line Comfort is Just a Gas Pedal Away
It's the dreaded road trip: You have bored kids in the back seat fidgeting, and your back's aching from hours in the driver's seat.
All this - just to get to grandma's house. Luckily, it doesn't have to be like this anymore. You can enjoy first-class comfort and entertainment without paying a first-class price, right in your own conversion vehicle.
13). When Life Gets You Down, Take a Freedom Ride
Between work, family and other obligations that life tends to throw your way, it's hard to find time for yourself.
Even when we're away from the home or office, most of us remain connected to our cell phones or pagers. We live in a society where communication is made easy, but privacy and real down-time are becoming less and less of an option.
There are, however, some ways to bring a little therapeutic relaxation to your life.
14). Visit Valley Forge for Historic Haunts, Hayrides
As night falls over Valley Forge and Montgomery County, the winds whisper stories of America's past. You can sense the spirits of the men at Valley Forge National Historical Park, Brandywine Battlefield and Washington's Crossing.
In daylight hours, historic sites bustle with cooking and spinning demonstrations. Re-enactments of battles and guided tours preserve and illuminate the past for visitors.
15). Ballroom Dancing Enjoys Resurgence With Kids
Step one: Put on your dancing shoes. Step two: Grab a partner. Step three: Tango!
Ballroom dancing, from the fox trot to the charleston, has long been a popular part of American culture. Adults love it, but lately, younger generations have been tapping into the music and rhythm of the waltz and the cha-cha - dances that once excited their parents and grandparents.
16). Spice Up the Holidays With a Cruise Vacation
Holiday cruises are gaining in popularity, and cruise lines have responded with a wide variety of itineraries to suit every taste. Whether it's a Christmas gift for Mom or a way to escape the hectic rush of December, a cruise provides an excellent value and a perfect chance to spend quality time with the family.
Cruise vacationers don't have to leave their traditional holiday observances at home, either.
17). Bring Home a Real American Hero
After 40 years of fighting the bad guys, Hasbro's very own American hero, G.I. Joe, is finally coming home - in the form of his very first full-length CGI feature film on DVD.
In "G.I. Joe: Valor Vs. Venom," brought to you by Paramount Home Entertainment and Hasbro, the popular character sets out to protect the world from complete destruction. Once again he faces off against the evil Cobra, who has unleashed an army of unstoppable soldiers with fierce battle skills.
18). Players Get 'Hooked' On New Video Game
It's the weekend and you wake up early to drive to your favorite fishing spot. But before you get dressed, you look out the window only to see that the weather forecast was wrong again. It is supposed to rain today.
So your fishing trip is canceled, right? Wrong! You can fish right in your own living room.
The game manufacturer Activision Value Publishing Inc.
19). Pick Up a Greeting Card, Win a Trip to Hollywood
Everyone knows it feels good to laugh, but did you know medical studies actually prove our assorted chuckles, titters and guffaws can have health benefits that include everything from lowered blood pressure to increased immune function to improved heart health?
Just in case the health benefits of laughing aren't enough to make you lighten up, the ABC Television Network and American Greetings are offering a "Look to Us for a Laugh Sweepstakes" in supermarkets, drug store chains and other mass retail stores.
20). New Shopping Channel Will Cater to Hispanic Households
Hoping to tap into the considerable spending power of the growing U.S. Hispanic population, a Delaware-based company plans to roll out a new shopping channel expressly for a Spanish-speaking audience.
Viva TeleCompras and its accompanying Web site, www.vivatelecompras.com, which are being developed by Home Shopping Latino Inc., will fill a niche by reaching out to 7.
21). Dude Ranches Popular For Group Travel
Colorado dude ranches are experiencing an increased demand for "togethering," a term first coined by the travel marketing firm Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell. The term describes a rapidly growing type of leisure travel that encompasses groups of people who vacation together.
A Colorado dude ranch is one of the few vacation venues where grandparents, parents, grandkids, neighborhood groups or close friends can all gather for a vacation experience with activities that each generation can enjoy.
22). Don't Stand in Line; Buy Your Lottery Tickets Online
Have you ever been tempted to play for those life-changing lotto jackpots, but didn't want to stand in line? The Web could be your ticket.
Lotteries first became popular in the 1970s as an easy way to raise money for state projects and education. Today, 41 states have them in one form or another. But as the jackpots grow, the lines for tickets get longer.
23). By Plane or By Car; On-Screen Entertainment Travels With You
Entertainment and travel are more integrated today than ever before. In fact, two airlines, JetBlue and Song, are using in-flight entertainment as a top selling point with consumers.
JetBlue was the first carrier to debut up to 24 channels of live DirecTV programming in-flight in 2000 and remains the only carrier offering satellite television free at every seat.
24). Olivia Newton-John is 'Stronger Than Before'
She's wondered "Have You Never Been Mellow," implored us to get "Physical" and made it clear she's "Hopelessly Devoted to You." Now singer, actress and breast cancer prevention advocate Olivia Newton-John wants us to know she's "Stronger Than Before."
That's the title of the multi-Grammy-winning artist's newest compact disc, a 10-song collection inspired by her ongoing efforts to promote women's health.
25). McBride and Hallmark Unite to Make Sweet Music
Sometimes spoken words can't express the true feelings of the heart. This Valentine's Day, let your sweetheart know how you feel through song.
Grammy Award-winning vocalist Martina McBride has joined forces with Hallmark to create "My Heart," a Valentine's Day compact disc available exclusively through Hallmark.
In her hit songs from the past and present, McBride's powerful voice takes listeners on a romantic musical journey.
26). Colorado Takes Center Stage
Whether it's winter, spring, summer or fall, visitors to Colorado have plenty of choices if they want to enjoy live entertainment. Each season, there are curtain calls for repertory theater and Broadway productions, children's plays and a variety of musical performances.
Visit Colorado and experience these "must see" venues and events.
* Denver Center for the Performing Arts: In the heart of Colorado's Mile High City, the center is home to the region's largest resident, professional theater company.
27). Florida Keys Culture Thrives Amid Idyllic Island Ambiance
Best known for their favorable climate, relaxed atmosphere and unparalleled watersports, the Florida Keys also are havens for creative spirits that add a tremendous cultural dimension to the islands' appeal.
The 125-mile-long island chain has a variety of cultural events and resources, from performing arts and musical shows to quality films, art galleries and literary venues.
28). Boost Your Child's Communication Skills
Kids come home from school and plop down in front of the television, play video games, or surf the Internet. What happened to reading a book, coloring or writing in a diary? As these hobbies fall by the wayside and more passive forms of entertainment take over, children's written, verbal and social skills can take a tumble, too.
"Laying the groundwork for good communication skills is essential," said Dr.
29). Cruise the Country 'Madden Style'
It has happened to everyone: You're watching a game on television and it's almost over, but then you have to be somewhere and you can't finish watching the game.
You get in the car and try to find the game on the radio. But by the time you find the station that carries it, the most important action has already happened - and you missed it. Now you'll have to settle for the highlights.
30). Consumers Get in Touch With New Technology
No matter who you are or where you are, you are likely feeling the growth of touchscreen technology. Today, frequent fliers often enter flight information using self-serve kiosks and soar through airport check-in, skipping the otherwise long lines. Busy moms may use car touchscreen systems to find directions, control air temperature and more. And businesspeople who require communication access at all times invest in advanced communication devices to stay in touch.
31). Treasure Hunt Supports Military Family Scholarships
Treasure hunts are all the rage, from Disney's hit film, "National Treasure," to NBC's new show, "Treasure Hunters." This summer, everyone can participate in a treasure hunt and earn a chance to win prizes while donating to a cause: academic scholarships for the children and spouses of U.S. soldiers.
A desire to thank the troops motivated Rachel and Kelsi Okun, sisters from McLean, Va.
32). Travel by Train and Travel in Style
Lost luggage. Airport delays. Cramped quarters. Is this any way to start a vacation?
Today, weary travelers are realizing that getting there is as important as being there. And, according to a recent Forbes magazine cover story, a growing number of them are choosing to travel by train, trading tiny airplane windows in favor of spacious seating areas with scenic views.
33). Helping Children Adjust To a Stepfamily
In the Paramount Pictures film "Yours, Mine & Ours," a widower with eight children runs into his high school sweetheart, a widow with 10 of her own. The two rekindle their love and marry without letting their children in on the nuptials until after the fact. A culture clash ensues, and the kids soon devise a plan to sabotage the marriage.
While "Yours, Mine & Ours" is a comedy, it touches on some of the real-life issues confronting stepparents and children.
34). Last-Minute Shoppers Rejoice: The Gift Card Can Save You
Despite their best intentions to finish holiday shopping early, many consumers end up waiting until the last minute: One in five people anticipate they won't finish their holiday shopping until the week before Christmas or until Christmas Eve, according to a survey conducted by Blockbuster.
The gift card, the quintessential last-minute gift, continues to be a popular choice among both givers and receivers.
35). Activision Weaves Its Web Into New Spider-Man 2 Video Game
How would it feel to be Spider-Man? What would it be like to fight crime as a superhero in one of the most captivating cities in the world - New York City?
Picture yourself sending your super web powers into the air to disarm one of Spidey's extraordinary nemeses like Doc Ock, Mysterio, Shocker or Rhino, then with a quick flick of the wrist, wrapping them up rodeo style - all without breaking a sweat.
36). Movies: The Natural Way To Learn a Language
Have you ever wondered how it is possible that you can speak your native language so easily? When you want to express something, correct phrases and sentences just come to you. Most of this process is unconscious.
Stephen Krashen, a professor at the University of Southern California and a linguistics expert, has developed a hypothesis to explain how this is possible.
37). Visit the Florida Keys For Fun, Quirky Events
Visitors to the Florida Keys always find something unique and exciting to do, especially in the summer and fall. The choices range from watching championship offshore powerboat races to enjoying culinary, musical, historical and cultural celebrations.
And for those in search of quirky, off-the-wall fun, the Keys certainly don't disappoint. Key West even hosts an annual event celebrating chickens.
38). 10 Time-Tested Tips for Traveling With Toddlers
Traveling with toddlers can be torture.
New sights and sounds can be overwhelming to a young child and vacation excitement can quickly turn into temper tantrums if you're not prepared.
Here are 10 parent-practiced tips to help make traveling with toddlers fun.
1. Choose a family-friendly destination. Skip the crowded tourist destinations and opt instead for a locale that is accustomed to having kids around.
39). Most Say the Flu Vaccine Shortage Caused Small Impact
Everyone remembers the headlines: "Half of U.S. Flu Vaccine Withheld," "Communities Agonize Over Flu Vaccine Distribution," "Doctors in Frantic Quest for Flu Vaccine."
A few months after the vaccine crisis began in 2004, a survey by The Quigley Corp., makers of Cold-Eeze, found that 68 percent of Americans thought the media and government overemphasized the impact and import of the shortage.
40). Experience the Romance of New Orleans
With its decadent foods, elegant architecture and Old-World charm, New Orleans is the perfect city for a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or romantic getaway.
Where else can you walk under a canopy of live oaks, ride in a horse-drawn carriage through historic neighborhoods or eat sumptuous cuisine in a small bistro? New Orleans also is the birthplace of jazz, and its sultry sounds thrive along the city's lively streets and in its cozy music clubs.
41). Satellite TV System Keeps Truckers Entertained
For the past five years, truck drivers Robert and Peggy Daniels have used KVH Industries' TracVision antennae - which can pick up more than 300 channels of live DirecTV programming - to stay entertained and informed while they're on the road.
Over those five years, the couple averaged more than 300 days on the road and hauled cargo more than 1.2 million miles.
42). Easy-to-Follow Tips for Creating Timeless Scrapbooks
Flipping through old photos can instill feelings of nostalgia, but it also can evoke disappointment and frustration when you no longer remember the people, details and emotions behind them.
Scrapbooks allow you to not only preserve photos and memorabilia, but to capture the emotions behind your precious memories.
Putting together a scrapbook can seem like a daunting project, especially when you first look at the boxes and piles of unsorted photos.
43). Beat the Winter Blues at A Boat or Sports Show
For those unable to jet off to warmer climates, dreaming about the sun, sand and surf may be the only way to make it through the long winter months. But for boat and outdoor enthusiasts, there's a surefire way to cure the winter blues: boat and sports shows.
U.S. boat and boating-related retail purchases totaled $30 billion in 2003 and this figure is growing quickly.
44). New Orleans Earns a Spot On Your Holiday Wish List
Traveling for the holidays? With low hotel rates, special culinary offerings, cultural and family events and unique shopping, New Orleans makes the perfect destination.
In December, New Orleans comes alive with music, food and decorations - all with the sounds, scents and sights of the season.
Food lovers will revel in the free daily cooking demonstrations given by the city's top chefs and have the special opportunity to savor a traditional Creole dinner, the Reveillon, offered in many of New Orleans' best restaurants.
45). Tips on Getting the Most Out of Digital Photography
Digital cameras now outsell traditional film cameras, but many consumers are unsure how to make the most of this relatively new technology.
From previewing and deleting unwanted snapshots to printing at self-service kiosks, digital pictures give us options we never imagined just a few short years ago.
FedEx Kinko's Office and Print Centers, which.
46). Hunt Deer Without Leaving Your Couch
Calling all virtual sportsmen! Tell your kids to scoot over and hand you a game controller. Now you can enjoy hunting all year round and come face-to-face with prey right in the comfort of your living room.
With the expertise of Activision Inc., a worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment, and authentic gear from Cabela's, a renowned hunting outfitter, "Cabela's Deer Hunt 2005 Season" is taking the hunt to an all-new level of realism on the PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC.
47). Carpooling Tips for an Enjoyable Ride to Work
During its heyday in the 1970s, carpooling became a successful way of conserving gas, combating horrific traffic jams in big cities, and diminishing air pollution that was reaching alarming levels.
But with the advent of urban sprawl and a surplus of gas and oil, many decided that carpooling was no longer necessary. Now, however, with environmental concerns afoot, and gas prices on the rise, ridesharing is enjoying something of a renaissance.
48). Make LA Your Playground With 'True Crime' For the PC
Imagine yourself cruising through the sun-dripped, star-laden streets of Los Angeles.
You are the toughest crime warrior this side of Sunset. You take down your enemies with a dizzying array of punches, kicks, combinations and finishing moves, all without breaking a sweat.
Welcome to the world of Elite Operations Division operative Nick Kang, a no-holds-barred bad-ass whose brutal reputation has landed him the task of taking down the organized crime units that have turned Los Angeles into a war zone.
49). Wood Decor Adds Uniqueness to a Home
A home featuring traditional wood crafts, folk art and hand-carved furniture exemplifies a unique style of beauty. Whether you proudly display family heirlooms or collectibles gathered throughout the years, the addition of wood as a classic backdrop throughout your home will set the stage for these historic treasures and enhance your home's sense of warmth and style.
50). Teenage Mogul: Behind the Scenes of 'Americanizing Shelley'
Most girls her age are busy. There's homework, boys, fashion, music. So much to do, so little time.
All of that is on Natasha Gill's agenda - as well as her movie. She is making history on the silver screen. That's because it would not be enough for her to simply be a star. The 17-year-old is co-executive producer of the feature-length motion picture, "Americanizing Shelley.