(ARA) - Who doesn’t love spring? Flowers bloom, trees bud and bright songbirds return to the area. The renewed resurgence of radiant life may make you want to get in on the action.

Convincing songbirds and favorites like hummingbirds to visit your yard is as simple as providing them with plentiful sources of food, water and nesting material. The avian experts at Songbird Essentials, a leading provider of accoutrements and food for outdoor birds of all species, offer a few tips for attracting some popular, picturesque feathered friends to your neighborhood:

Look for feeders, like the Three Tube Finch Feeder, that allow 24 or more birds to perch and dine at the same time. The Three Tube Finch Feeder certainly sets the stage for a spectacular show. To attract orioles, try feeding them all new BirdBerry Jelly, a human grade product that’s better for the birds. Try using a feeder like Songbird Essentials’ Grand Slam Oriole feeder made of recycled plastic.

Provide plenty of nectar feeders for hummingbirds, like Dr. J.B.’s Hummingbird Feeder which is dishwasher safe and easy to clean, has an extra wide mouth for easy filling and is bee resistant.

(ARA) - Once spring arrives and the daffodils begin to bloom, your old front door may look pretty drab. Still, many consumers may avoid home improvement projects because of a reluctance to spend money in a questionable economy.

“Today, homeowners are still focused on getting the most for their money,” says Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella Windows & Doors spokesperson. “Home improvement projects can add to the look and comfort of your home, and help reduce monthly utility bills to help make the most of your hard-earned money.”

If your home is overdue for new windows, consider replacing them with Energy Star products that can lower your energy bills by as much as 20 to 30 percent.

Many Pella windows and doors have earned the Energy Star. For greater energy efficiency, choose double- or triple-pane options and look for windows with low U-values, which measure the ability to resist the transfer of heat.

Another way to help reduce energy bills is to keep window blinds and shades closed during hot months to conserve energy and open on sunny days during cold months to let in solar heat.

(ARA) - When it comes to curb appeal, a home’s unique features are what make an eye-catching, lasting impression. But homeowners don’t need to go over the top to stand out. Accents of vibrant color and uncommon dimension create character, even extending a homeowner’s personality to their home’s welcoming facade.

A value-enhancing way to deliver this appeal is with shutters. Many homeowners know that common shutters can do the job of adding a contrasting color. But high-quality, customizable shutters can make a complete difference, animating a home with elegant texture and depth. Atlantic Premium Shutters literally offers more than a thousand ways for a homeowner to create a home exterior look that is entirely unique.

Virtually every home exterior can be complemented with more than 40 bold colors, and updated with design options to add extra distinction or a modern touch. Atlantic’s historically-accurate Architectural and Classic Collections include several shutter styles and various customizable elements. With the shutters’ composite construction, homeowners have the extra benefit of never having to paint or worry about unsightly wood-related issues such as rotting or warping.

Atlantic Premium Shutters is a division of The Tapco Group. For more information, visit www.atlanticpremiumshutters.com or call (866) 288-2726.

(ARA) - Habrá abundantes oportunidades de empleo para los técnicos expertos en reparación de automóviles, y los profesionales de la industria coinciden en que numerosos talleres confrontan problemas a la hora de buscar empleados suficientemente calificados.

“La demanda real es de técnicos calificados con entrenamiento formal, buenas destrezas de diagnóstico y solución de problemas, y conocimientos de computación”, explica John Hurd, presidente del campus de Wyotech en Sacramento, California. “A propósito, quienes carezcan de las destrezas requeridas, enfrentarán sin dudas una gran competencia para obtener empleos de nivel básico”.

A pesar de las brillantes expectativas de empleo, la búsqueda empleados talentosos con las destrezas idóneas es difícil. Hurd puntualiza que WyoTech le hace una importante contribución a la industria automovilística entrenando jóvenes con vistas a seguir carreras en tecnología automotriz, y afirma que los progresos en dicha tecnología no implican desafíos significativos para WyoTech, “En lo que respecta a la fabricación, si los construimos [automóviles] vamos a entrenar a nuestros técnicos para repararlos”, añade Hurd.

Hurd insiste en la importancia de la educación vocacional y los institutos tecnológicos para ayudar a que la industria satisfaga su necesidad de talentos futuros. “Creo que la sociedad en conjunto debe dares cuenta de que las instituciones de cuatro años no son posibles, deseables ni necesarias para todos. Una educación enfocada en la técnica puede proporcionarnos las destrezas necesarias para el futuro que deseamos”, concluye.

(ARA) - Job opportunities will abound for skilled automotive technicians, and industry professionals agree that many shops have trouble finding enough qualified employees.

“The real demand is for qualified technicians – those with formal training, good diagnostic and problem-solving abilities and training in electronics and computer skills," says John Hurd, president of the WyoTech campus in Sacramento, Calif. "In fact, those without the required skills will likely face stiff competition for entry-level positions.”

Despite the bright job prospects, finding talented employees with the right skill set is difficult. Hurd stressed that WyoTech makes an important contribution to the automotive industry by training young people for careers in automotive technology. He said that advances in automotive technology do not pose significant challenges for WyoTech, “As far as manufacturing, if you build it, we are going to train our technicians to fix it.”

Hurd stressed the importance of vocational education and technical colleges in helping the industry meet its future talent needs. “I think that society as a whole has to realize that four-year colleges aren’t possible, desirable or necessary for everybody. A focused technical education can teach people the skills that they are going to need for the future they desire,” he says.

(ARA) - The tax credit for energy efficient replacement windows and doors, originally introduced in 2009 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is set to expire at the end of 2010, making this year the best time for homeowners to replace their windows and upgrade the look and feel of their home.

Ply Gem, a leader in the building products industry, offers some tips and guidelines to help homeowners make the most of the energy efficient replacement window tax credit.

Homeowners can receive a tax credit worth 30 percent of the purchase price of qualifying energy efficient windows, up to a maximum of $1,500 if purchased and installed by Dec. 31, 2010.

To redeem the credit, be sure to save your invoice that shows a breakout of window and installation costs, the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) labels from all windows and doors and the manufacturer’s certificate.

Energy efficient windows that meet the tax qualifications offer more savings than a one-time federal tax credit. The Alliance to Save Energy says that sealing and insulating your house – including utilizing energy efficient windows – is a great first step to take when improving your home’s energy efficiency. To learn more, visit www.plygemwindows.com or www.recovery.gov.

(ARA) - The home remodeling industry is seeing an upswing, according to a Harvard University study released earlier this year, as many homeowners opt to make various upgrades to their homes instead of moving from one home to another.

“A home should be a haven: comfortable, stylish, low-maintenance and easy on the bills,” says Erik Jarnryd, co-chairman and CEO of Harvey Building Products (www.harveybp.com). Harvey manufactures high-quality windows, doors and patio rooms and offers a range of products used in energy-efficient homes throughout the Northeast. “Pay attention to products that protect your family from outdoor elements – housewrap, insulation, windows and doors – because their efficiency will help lower utility bills and in some cases provide you with a federal tax credit.”

So how does one find stylish, high-performance home products that deliver savings?

"If you have to meet a certain budget, stay focused on value, but don’t forget to consider long-term savings from energy-efficient options that deliver tax credits, too," Jarnryd says. "If you want maximum performance, look at the thermal and structural performance values. Finally, if your remodel is driven by a specific style, find a company that offers a range of options so you can compare and contrast easily.”

(ARA) - En el juego de mesa Careers (Carreras) que alguna vez gozó de popularidad, los participantes pueden buscar nuevas profesiones con sólo un golpe de dados. Pero en un cambio de carrera no tiene que intervenir el azar, según afirma Kari Marcum, directora de servicios de orientación profesional del Everest College en Merrionette Park, Illinois.

“Una evaluación cuidadosa de los objetivos e intereses relacionado con una carrera, y un plan bien concebido para lograrlos, puede dar como resultado un empleo más gratificante,” explica Marcum.

Marcum afirma que la transformación en realidad de ese sueño, comienza con el análisis de estos factores:
* Sus intereses.
* Su nivel de destrezas.
* Empleos en campos de alta demanda que también proporcionan oportunidades de crecimiento y ascenso.

Marcum aconseja que, si es necesario volver a las aulas, es preciso buscar una institución como Everest College, que proporciona horarios flexibles para las necesidades del alumnado. Además, hay que buscar escuelas que ofrezcan clases los fines de semana, o incluso temprano en la mañana. Las escuelas orientadas hacia una profesión deben contar con lo siguiente:

* Programas en campos de profesiones con gran demanda.
* Instructores con experiencia profesional “del mundo real”.
* Programas de entrenamiento intenso a corto plazo que aceleren el proceso de educación.
* Trayectoria demostrada de ayuda para la ubicación laboral.

“Nunca es tarde para considerar un cambio de profesión”, afirma Marcum. “Todos debemos sentirnos felices y plenos en nuestros empleos. Esto conduce al éxito profesional y a la satisfacción personal.”

(ARA) - The board game Careers allowed players to seek new professions simply by rolling the dice. Yet switching careers need not be a gamble, says Kari Marcum, career services director at Everest College in Merrionette Park, Ill.

“A careful assessment of your career goals and interests, and a well-conceived plan on how to achieve them, can lead to a more rewarding job,” says Marcum.

Marcum says converting that new career dream to reality begins by analyzing these factors:
* Your interests
* Your skill level
* Occupations in areas of high demand that also offer growth and upward mobility

If further schooling is needed, Marcum suggests finding an institution, like Everest College, that provides flexible scheduling to meet your needs. Also look for schools that schedule classes on weekends, or even classes that start in the early morning. Career-focused schools should also offer:

* Programs in fields in high-demand professions
* Instructors with “real world” experience
* Short-term, intense training programs that accelerate the education process
* A proven record in job placement assistance

“There is never a bad time to consider a career change,” Marcum says. “People should be happy and fulfilled at their jobs. It leads to professional success and personal satisfaction.”

(ARA) - If you really want to sell your home, make it stand out by showcasing your outdoor spaces. Real estate pros say most decks, patios, and porches are not presented to their full advantage. That’s an easy fix and something that makes your home stand out to buyers.

On the flip side, a worn deck looks like work, so fixing it up is worth the effort. Attractive, low-maintenance, and green all add value. Try an earth-friendly product like Latitudes Capricorn composite decking. It looks like tropical hardwoods, which is the hottest trend in low maintenance decking, so it will update your home instantly.

While you’re updating, add some energy efficient recessed lighting into the deck surface or steps, or bring the living room outdoors with Tiffany-style glass post lights from Deckorators that easily install over deck or fence posts of virtually any size. With LED bulbs, the lights last for years. They add safety and ambiance – something homebuyers appreciate.

Bonus areas can set your home apart and add value, so play them up big this spring to help sell your house. For more ideas and a wide variety of deck products, visit www.latitudesdeck.com or www.deckorators.com.

(ARA) - Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, when many people focus on getting their homes cleaned up and ready for the warmer months ahead. It is also a great time to get your finances – including your credit – in order.

Experian has developed four tips to help you spring clean your credit:

1. Know your report and your score
You can get your credit report at www.experian.com. Purchasing a scored report will help you identify the factors in your report that are most influencing your credit risk.

2. Pay your bills on time

3. Start paying off your credit card debt and leave the account open
Paying down debts and paying off credit cards is always good for your credit, but closing a credit account could have a negative impact on your credit scores, at least for a short time.

4. Use credit wisely
Once you’ve paid down your debts, continue to use your credit cards and pay the bills on time each month, and keep your balances low.

For answers to other financial questions and more information about Experian, visit www.experian.com/crediteducation.

(ARA) – Sodium intake is increasingly being watched by consumers, regulators and health groups as public service organizations are referring to high sodium diets as the single greatest problem in the American diet.

“My culinary philosophy is that everyone can manage a reduced sodium diet through delicious, satisfying cuisine,” says New York City chef and cookbook author Tom Valenti. “There are several ways to add flavor to your favorite meals but still cut back on salt.”

Valenti offers five quick tips to help you cook healthy and flavorful meals:

Add fresh herbs: When cooking pasta, rice or fresh veggies there is no need to add salt to your water. Instead, enhance meals by cooking with fresh herbs.

Canned goods: Buy canned goods that clearly state, "no salt added” or purchase these goods in cartons instead.

Top it off: Instead of using high sodium and calorie sauces or condiments, top off dishes like sandwiches or grilled chicken breast with fresh salsa or reduced sodium cheese. Sargento’s new Reduced Sodium cheeses offer great flavor for health-conscious consumers looking to indulge their cheese passion without sacrificing taste and are available in shreds, slices and snacks.

Find more healthy cooking tips and recipes at www.sargento.com.

(ARA) – The travel bug is striking Americans across the country. Whether you're planning to fly, drive, sail or just spend some time in the hotel, you can find fantastic travel deals and discounts right now.

* Use your favorite online vacation search site for great savings when you combine hotel, car rental and airfare purchases. To make the deal even better, purchase your trip on these sites through Ebates.com, which will give you cash back on a percentage of your total purchase for additional savings. The best part about using a site like Ebates.com is that there are no points to accumulate or miles to redeem, and the cash back you earn is yours to use any way you want to.

* Start gathering the materials you need for your trip. Purchase travel books or luggage through more than 1,100 online stores on Ebates.com, and not only save money using coupon codes and discounts, but also receive a check back in the mail for a percentage of your online purchase.

Get started now on planning that vacation getaway to rejuvenate your body and refresh your mind. And try several of these tips to help you save money on your trip.

(ARA) – As home heating and cooling costs soar, your energy dollars literally may be going out the window – and the walls. While retrofitting older homes with weather stripping, insulation and caulk helps seal air leaks, for new homes and additions, building tight walls can prevent air from escaping.

“Energy efficient construction should address air, moisture and thermal movement through walls, as well as floors, ceiling and roof,” says Rob Brooks, green buildings program director for iLevel by Weyerhaeuser. “For example, the spacing and depth of studs and other framing members directly influences the volume of insulation and how effectively it does its job.”

Simple and cost-effective framing techniques can increase the overall insulating properties of a completed wall by up to 58 percent and allow for 86 percent greater insulation volume when comparing a 2-by-4 to a 2-by-6 wall with the same type of insulation. For more information, visit www.iLevel.com or call (888) 453-8358.

(ARA) - More people are looking forward to tax time this year. More than 25 tax cuts for 2009 federal returns have been passed to help those struggling in the downturned economy.

“Virtually everyone is eligible for new tax credits, deductions and other changes,” says Jessi Dolmage, spokeswoman for 2nd Story Software, Inc., makers of TaxACT. Dolmage summarizes some changes that could impact your bottom line.

The Making Work Pay credit replaced the 2008 federal stimulus checks for 2009 and 2010. The refundable credit is worth 6.2 percent of your earned income, up to $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples filing jointly. The credit phases out for married couples filing jointly with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) between $150,000 and $190,000, and for single taxpayers whose MAGI is between $75,000 and $95,000.

The first $2,400 of unemployment compensation is exempt from 2009 federal taxes. Any amount over $2,400, as well as severance pay, is taxable income.

To ensure you get all the tax breaks you qualify for, Dolmage recommends a do-it-yourself tax solution like TaxACT that includes a maximum refund pledge.

For information about all 2009 tax law changes, visit www.IRS.gov and www.TaxACT.com/recovery-act.

(ARA) – Students in California are boycotting rising tuition costs, but across the country most students are forced to shell out big money in order to continue their education.

Students who have a lot of debt are usually the same ones who don’t know how to secure free money from grants and scholarships. "Part of the problem is that students coming in as freshmen do not understand smart borrowing and spending habits," says Rebecca Porter, director of enrollment at Indiana University.

Online education resources like ClassesAndCareers.com are a great help to students who are continuing their education to learn more about scholarships, grants and financial aid. Here are a few money-saving tips for students:

* Get by without a car.

* Buy used.

* Avoid eating out.

* Be creative for entertainment.

* Find a balance between school and work.

If you need help finding financial aid through scholarships, grants, student loans or even the current stimulus plan, visit ClassesAndCareers.com and fill out the form. A career counselor will assist you in setting up a financial plan to help you get your education debt-free. Or speak with a career counselor by calling (888) 361-6346.

(ARA) – When you’re ready to sell your home in the current market, you need to take every step you can to ensure a timely sale at the price you want. A surplus of homes for sale means that yours needs to stand out in style, amenities and quality to make an impression on potential buyers. The more steps you take to make your house sale-ready, the better results you’ll get.

Buyers want to know the home they’re considering is safe and sound, and the best way to establish that is to hire a home inspector. Twenty years ago, it seemed extravagant to hire a home inspector, but today it’s standard practice. Buyers will often bring their own inspectors to the table, so you need to start by hiring one yourself. Hiring a professional will give you a realistic perspective on what’s going on in the bones of your home.

“In a down market, a pre-sale inspection can make a home stand out,” says David Tamny, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors. “More and more, sellers are obtaining pre-sale inspections to help uncover and address potential issues before the first prospective buyer walks through the door. This simple step allows for better planning and lowers repair costs, adds value to the home, and it could increase the likelihood of an offer.”

(ARA) - Think orchids are just for those with green thumbs and garden aprons filled with gadgets and secret instructions?

Think again. Now there are no-fear orchids for everyone that will reward you with fabulous blooms for months on end.

“Orchids are really easy to grow,” says Justin W. Hancock, editor of Better Homes & Gardens online (BHG.com). “The array of varieties, spectacular colors and exotic shapes make them the perfect decorative choice to add beauty and style to every home.”

Here are a few easy tips to grow orchids that will reward you with blooms for months:

* Depending on the type and season, most orchids should only be watered about once a week. Allow them to dry out before re-watering. And never leave your orchid in standing water.

* Be sure to keep your orchid out of direct sunlight. Rather than moving them all over the home, place them in a well-lit area, but not in direct sunlight. Remember, the larger the leaf of your orchid, the less lights it needs.

* Confidence that you will be successful in growing your own orchids
For more tips on growing these and other easy care orchids or to find a retailer near you, visit www.costafarms.com/orchidsareeasy.

(ARA) - If the recent financial turmoil has taught us anything, it’s that maybe we should pay attention to the age-old cliches that our parents and grandparents passed on to us.

Here are some famous cliches from generations before that could serve us well in 2010.

1. Save for a rainy day. It's time to slow down on spending and start saving.

“The key really is to get started saving anything,” says Jill Aleshire, senior vice president and director of consumer banking for Thrivent Financial Bank. “Whether it is $20 a month, $20 a paycheck, whatever it is you can set aside, just get in the habit of saving. An emergency reserve goal should be the amount equal to at least three months' income and preferably six months' income.”

2. You’re walking on thin ice. If you terminated your life insurance policy, now is the time to begin shopping around for a new one.

3. Another day, another dollar. Consider disability income insurance to help cover living expenses and protect your savings should that happen. For more information, go to www.thrivent.com/marketing/savings.html or www.thrivent.com.

(ARA) – Many types of back pain, caused by a variety of reasons including heavy lifting and poor posture, can be eased without surgery. Find comfort at home by following these three easy ideas which may help to alleviate back pain.

1. Stretch away tension – Stretching is a great way to loosen muscles and relieve tension in your back. But, be sure to consult your physician if you have any medical conditions.

2. Recline with support – Sitting in a reclined position is often an effective step in helping to relieve back pain, as it transfers weight and pressure off of your spine and allows your muscles to relax. Get comfortable in reclining furniture with total body and lumbar support, meaning that no extra stress is placed on any one part of the body, and be sure to fully recline and adjust the leg rest to the highest position.

“I encourage patients to take steps towards a healthier back every day,” says Dr. Dave David, a board-certified physician who has been practicing medicine for more than 30 years. “From utilizing at-home remedies to stretching regularly and utilizing reclining furniture with the right support, sufferers can oftentimes find relief from current aches and work to prevent future discomfort.”

(ARA) - Americans could learn a lot about healthy eating habits from the ordinary people of the Mediterranean nations. Developing healthy eating habits is a simple way to ensure your body is receiving the necessary amount of nutrients.

Here are some basic, healthy eating habits that apply for everyone:

* Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables.
* Shop local farmers markets.
* Eat more turkey and less beef.
* Saute or grill rather than fry.
* Eat slowly and enjoy each bite.

“It was weird, when I first came here, to see how expensive fresh fruit and vegetables were in the U.S. as compared to the Mediterranean, and how relatively inexpensive beef was here compared to there,” says chef Nathan “Tany” Hashmonay, a native of Israel who studied in Israel and France before coming to the U.S. to complete his education. He is an instructor in The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Charlotte.

Healthy eating is a way of life, according to Hashmonay. “Just look for a lot of different kinds of fruits and vegetables because each brings something new to the table – each has its own vitamins and nutrients.” To learn more about how you can make healthy cooking a career at The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

(ARA) - As spring rounds the corner, so does the desire to lighten the mood in life and home. Whether you choose to de-clutter or add a splash of spring color, simple eco-friendly changes to home decor set the tone for a much lighter, and brighter, season.

Follow these tips to affordable eco-friendly home decorating.

Let color lift the mood
Color has long been credited for its mood-changing qualities. “Color really makes things more upbeat and changes the energy in a space,” says Mary Ann Thornam, interior design academic department chair at The Art Institute of Colorado.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited professional-certified designer and instructor from Miami International University of Art & Design, Jorge A. Pernas, suggests not just going out and buying any old type of paint, but “request to see their line of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) free products – they are very eco-friendly.”

Bring the outside in
Bring the natural goodness of the outside into your home with the addition of potted flowers and plants or window boxes. Vegetation not only adds oxygen, but also brightens the backdrop. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

(ARA) - With the high cost of fuel, many pickup owners are feeling the burn at the pump. While some consumers may be able to purchase a new truck that gets better gas mileage, many of us are financially stuck with the truck we currently have. To cope, there are several things you can do to save gas money now.

* You can increase your gas mileage up to 10 percent by ensuring your oil, air and fuel filters are clean.

* Fill up with the lowest octane gasoline possible for your vehicle. That pricey premium fuel won't boost your truck's fuel economy or performance.

* Check your tires to make sure they’re properly inflated and aligned.

* A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds. The Access Roll-Up Cover, manufactured by Agri-Cover, Inc., a North Dakota truck accessory company, is made of heavy-duty, double-coated vinyl. The roll-up cover installs quickly and easily with a clamp-on installation. When not in use, the cover can be rolled up behind the cab and never has to be removed when hauling larger items.

For more information on the Access Roll-Up Cover visit www.accesscover.com or call (888) 281-7098.

(ARA) – After months of dark, sleepy winter, many of us look for ways to bring spring’s sense of renewal into our homes. This year, go beyond the typical spring cleaning with projects that repurpose things you already own. You will revitalize your home’s style – and your own – and add a new, fun spin to life in sunnier days.

Start with that closet that’s cluttered with items you don’t use but can’t bear to throw away. Mining these possessions and getting some crafty tips for ways to repurpose them is not only a great way to be environmentally friendly, but it’s also a perfect way to stay on a budget without letting your style stagnate.

With a little creativity inspired by current trends, you can “upcycle” your loved memories into wearable art. The craft masters at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores offer projects that capitalize on what you already have in a lovely presentation showing before and after photos. For example, a brooch bouquet necklace allows you to incorporate brooches and other past-its-prime jewelry into an of-the-moment statement necklace like those featured in glossy fashion magazines. And if you have a skirt with gorgeous fabric, but outdated style or size, Joann.com has tips on how to turn it into a fringed scarf.

(ARA) - Moms and dads know that young kids need a solid nutritional foundation to grow up healthy and strong. But for many little kids, stubborn eating habits can stand in the way of a healthy meal.

It can be tempting to give in to a tantrum and let your child eat whatever he or she wants. But nutrition experts and pediatricians agree that the right balance of nutrients, including calcium, protein and certain vitamins, is critical for a healthy future.

Ninety percent of bone strength is developed during childhood and adolescence, so it’s essential that young children get enough of calcium, protein and Vitamin D. To help them get some of the nutrients they need, choose a power-packed dairy snack like Dannon’s new Dan-o-nino as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Dan-o-nino has a thick and creamy taste preschoolers will love. It is also an easily spoonable snack that they can eat by themselves while they develop their motor skills.

Dan-o-nino is an excellent source of calcium, delivering ounce per ounce two times the amount of calcium of milk. It also contains 6 percent of the recommended daily value of Vitamin D per serving and is a good source of protein with three grams per serving – 19 percent of the recommended daily value. To learn more about making Dan-o-nino part of your child’s diet, visit www.danonino.us.com.

(ARA) – It’s a syndrome that affects more than 5 million Americans – and probably more: heart failure.

The Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) offers these tips to patients, their families and individuals at risk.

1. Talk to your doctor. One of the keys to making heart disease a diagnosis you can live with is to get diagnosed as early as possible. Heart failure is diagnosed through a number of tests ordered by your doctor, the most important of which is an echocardiogram or “echo.”

2. Know your risk factors. They include: high blood pressure, prior heart attack, a history of heart murmurs, an enlarged heart, diabetes and a family history of enlarged heart.

3. Know the symptoms. They include: shortness of breath, even in mild activity; difficulty breathing when lying down; weight gain with swelling in the legs and ankles from fluid retention; and general fatigue and weakness.

4. Adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Start by giving up any tobacco use and focusing on a healthy diet. The other enjoyable element of a healthy lifestyle is exercise.

To learn more, visit abouthf.org. When you take an active role in your health, it’s possible to live a full, enjoyable life, even after a heart failure diagnosis.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) – Pets are members of our families. They are our best friends and love us devotedly.

There are ways to save money on pet supplies while keeping your pet healthy, happy and looking good.

* Check the mailbox for fliers, inserts and community newspaper ads from pet stores in your vicinity.

* Look in the back of your local area phone book for coupons, which are typically valid for a long period of time.

* Keep up with preventive maintenance, and shop online for prescription pet medicines through CouponHeaven.com. Most online pet pharmacies offer free shipping, and you can save even more with pet prescriptions coupons that are valid for heartworm medications, flea and tick preventatives, and more.

* Shopping online allows you to browse different stores, comparing the quality and prices for all of your pet supplies, like a bed for your dog, a tank for your fish, toys for your cat or a kissing mirror for your bird – just to name a few. When you use CouponHeaven.com to find coupon codes for pet products, you can save money on the purchase, or get free shipping.

(ARA) - In the wake of increased layoffs and cutbacks, the unemployed and employed alike are worrying about their careers. This makes 2010 a prime time to evaluate your own employability and take steps to strengthen your career options.

Explore educational paths and new careers. If the option of changing careers doesn’t appeal to you, check out certification programs that can bolster your qualifications in your current field. You can find information at www.brownmackie.edu.

Fill any gaps in employment with productive activities. While you’re unemployed, involve yourself in activities that suggest you are still being productive and still have enthusiasm, such as volunteering at a hospital or homeless shelter, or participating in church activities.

Working alongside others allows for the ever-important step of networking. Attending school is also a perfectly acceptable gap in employment.

(ARA) – Although pets are undeniably loveable, the animal dander and other allergens that accompany these furry friends can jeopardize the well-being of those in the home.

If pets are an integral part of your family, take note of a few tips to keep your pet and home environment healthy.

Adding an air purifier will reduce the amount of pollutants and irritants circulating through the home, allowing people and pets alike to breathe a little easier (and cleaner). Air purification systems like the Idyllis line from Lowe’s also have added benefits for pet-loving households – they dilute odors that may result from a wet pet, accidents around the home, or other pet smells.

If allergies are an issue in your home, there are steps you can take to curb the problem. Regular baths and grooming for your pets will go a long way in keeping family members healthy and allergen-free. Throw your pet’s bed and toys in the laundry once a week to keep away fleas and dust mites and to cut down on dander. For more ideas on maintaining a healthy home with pets, visit Lowes.com/HealthyHome.

(ARA) – Si tiene pensado comprar un vehículo nuevo (o usado) probablemente esté listo para visitar algunos concesionarios y hacer algunos recorridos de prueba para “familiarizarse” con cada coche.

A continuación, una lista de comprobación que le ayudará en su investigación del coche en el que está interesado, para garantizar que logrará la mejor oferta.

* Antes de visitar el concesionario, determine qué modelo (s) de automóvil (es) le interesan. Luego haga una investigación en Internet. Visite el sitio Web safercar.gov, dedicado a las quejas de los consumidores y a las advertencias del gobierno con respecto a revisiones y retiros del mercado.

* Determine cuánto le costará reemplazar piezas de la carrocería y el motor en la medida que el coche envejece. Por ejemplo, ¿cuánto le costará el cambio de los amortiguadores, $200 o $1,400?; o ¿le costará más el reemplazo de correas, frenos, luces delanteras o el radiador que en el caso de un modelo diferente? Para aprovechar un excelente recurso de comparación de costos en piezas de repuesto, lea el Indice de Reparación (Repair Index) del sitio Web del vendedor de piezas por Internet RockAuto.com.

* Si va a comprar un vehículo usado, compruebe su historial. Para esto, puede adquirir un reporte que elaboran varias compañías especializadas. También puede visitar el sitio Web del Sistema Nacional de Información de Títulos de Vehículos (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System), nmvtis.gov, para tener acceso a más información y recursos.

(ARA) – If you're in the market for a new car (or used car), you're probably ready to visit a couple of dealers and take several test drives to get the "feel" of the car.

Here's a checklist to help you research the car you're interested in buying, just to make sure you're getting the best deal you can get.

* Before even going to the lot, determine which car model(s) you are interested in. Then research them online. Check safercar.gov for consumer complaints and government notices about recalls.

* Determine how expensive it will be for you to replace auto and body parts on the car as it ages. For example, will replacing the shocks or struts cost you around $200 or $1400? Or will replacing the belts, brakes, headlights or radiator cost more than they would on a different model? For a great resource to compare the cost of replacement auto parts, look up the Repair Index at online auto parts retailer RockAuto.com.

* If you're buying used, check out the car's history. You can opt to purchase a vehicle history report from a number of different companies, or visit the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System at nmvtis.gov for additional information and resources.

(ARA) – A mom is always walking a fine line between trying to provide her family with everything they need, while at the same time balancing a budget and saving money for the unexpected surprises life can throw at her.

Here are some tips that you can use as a smart mom to save time and money.

1. Go on a treasure hunt at garage sales and estate auctions with your children.

2. As a busy mom with three girls, Anna Teoli found shopping online was the easiest way for her to save time.

"I always looked for the best deals, and for some reason, I always felt that if I searched more, I would find an even better deal," Teoli says. "One day it just hit me, why not gather all that information myself and let everyone know - all the best bargains and deals, online coupon codes, in-store coupons and all the ways to save more money."

Teoli started the MommySavesBig blog in 2007 and now MommySavesBig.com has all the coupon codes, deals and in-store coupons for popular stores a mom needs to keep her budget and family happy at the same time.

3. Before shopping at a favorite store online, join the company's newsletter.

(ARA) - As residents and business owners tire of clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, driveways and parking lots, they are probably not thinking about lawsuits, fines and jail time. But maybe they should. The public’s demand for winter safety and mobility isn’t confined to roadways alone; it also includes pedestrian safety and mobility.

A few years ago, the Salt Institute conducted an informal survey of county and municipal agencies regarding their practices of sidewalk snow clearing. Eighty-three percent of the agencies have written policies directing property owners to remove accumulated snow and ice “within 24 hours of the end of the snowstorm.” Penalties for property owners not complying can range from nominal tickets, to misdemeanors punishable by up to 90 days in jail, to substantial fines of up to $500.

Some property owners cite confusion over the liability involved with the decision “to shovel or not to shovel.” The common misconception is that by not shoveling, plowing or spreading salt, one cannot be sued for clearing surfaces poorly in case of a pedestrian fall.

Property owners should check their state laws and local ordinances and then take the required actions.

(ARA) - The majority of taxpayers will receive a bigger refunds or less tax owed on 2009 returns.

“The key this year is to get organized beforehand,” says Jessi Dolmage, spokeswoman for 2nd Story Software, the makers of TaxACT.

Dolmage shares easy ways that everyone can use to maximize their federal refund.

1. Gather your tax documents and organize by category. Locate records related to events including unemployment, college, new vehicles, having or adopting children, buying a house, moving and changing jobs.

2. Free solutions like TaxACT Free Federal Edition guide you through the new credits, deductions and tax laws. They also do the math, help find missing information and identify potential errors. TaxACT Free Federal Edition at www.taxact.com allows everyone to prepare and e-file for free – regardless of income, age, state of residence and military status.

3. Remember the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). According to the IRS, one out of every six taxpayers will qualify this year for this credit designed for those whose earned incomes are below certain thresholds.

The fastest way to get your federal refund is to e-file your return and choose direct deposit, reminds Dolmage. Learn more about 2009 tax law changes and TaxACT at www.irs.govand www.taxact.com.

(ARA) - The Making Work Pay credit has many taxpayers confused, and for some, the confusion has led to the shock of smaller or delayed refunds.

The refundable credit is worth 6.2 percent of your earned income, up to $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples filing jointly. If you don’t withhold federal taxes, you must file a federal tax return to receive the credit.

The credit phases out for married couples filing jointly with an modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) between $150,000 and $190,000, and for single taxpayers whose MAGI is between $75,000 and $95,000.

Get the credit right on your 2009 return
One of the surest ways to get the credit right is to use tax preparation software like TaxACT at www.taxact.com(http://www.taxact.com/). Answer simple questions and TaxACT will figure your credit amount and report it on the correct line of the appropriate form. Best of all, you can prepare, print and e-file your federal return for free with TaxACT Free Edition.

For all details of the Making Work Pay credit, visit the IRS Web site, www.irs.gov. Start your free federal return at www.taxact.com.

(ARA) – Trying to lose weight could cost you a lot of money - gym memberships, special diet foods, exercise equipment for your home or even hiring a personal trainer.

But there are ways you can lose weight without spending a lot of money. Here are some inexpensive ways to lose weight and stay fit:

* Start a neighborhood walking club. Or join a local pick-up game of dodgeball, basketball or racquetball.

* Relax with a cup of natural tea to reduce body fat and increase your metabolism rate. Oolong tea contains rich amino acids and cellulose, which can help lower your cholesterol levels. Green tea leaves contain vitamins C and E and a good amount of fiber. If you prefer black tea, its benefits include help with digestion.

Drinking a cup of tea after each meal will help you slowly dissolve fat in your body. Premium tea leaves give you the best quality and best taste. Teawan (www.Teawan.com) has both quality tea and teaware products from Taiwan.

* Clean the house. Pushing a vacuum at a rapid pace is good exercise. So is scrubbing floors or bathtubs.

* Borrow a fitness video from the library and tone your body with the experts.

(ARA) - “White or wheat?” Restaurant patrons are often presented with this familiar, yet inaccurate, question when ordering toast or a sandwich.

To help families make informed decisions about the wheat foods they eat, the Wheat Foods Council offers some insight.

* It’s all in the milling process: When milling whole grain flour, the three parts of the kernel are "reconstituted," or blended, back together in their original proportions.

* White flour is not “bad” for you: Enriched flour is made with only one part of the kernel – the endosperm. Iron and four B-vitamins are added in amounts equal to or exceeding that in whole wheat flour, depending on the product.

* Learn about labels: To correctly identify whole-grain foods, make sure the first item listed in the ingredient list is referred to as “whole” such as whole-wheat flour or whole-oat flour.

To learn more about how the wheat plant transforms into nutritious meals and snack staples, visit www.HowWheatWorks.com. For each participant, the Council will donate two pounds of flour to Operation Homefront, a non-profit that provides assistance to needy U.S. troops and their families.

(ARA) - Walls are, arguably, the largest decorator element in your home. Many of us, however, rarely venture beyond using them as background for our furniture and accessories. With a little courage and creativity, walls can be turned into a bold design statement in your home. And you don’t need the advice of a designer or the budget of a home-improvement show to look at your walls in a whole new light.

Wall murals continue to be a favorite decorating tool of interior designers and homeowners alike, and it’s easy to see why. Few wall treatments make as definitive a statement as a mural, and thanks to modern technology wallpaper murals are easier than ever to install and maintain. They fit in virtually every room setting; in fact, the hottest way to use murals is to put one on the ceiling. You’ll find thousands of designs on Web sites like www.MuralsYourWay.com. For a few hundred dollars you can choose from an array of themes – travel, sports, nature and more – or have your own custom mural created from a favorite photograph.

(ARA) – Are you 45 years of age or older? Have you ever had high blood pressure? Did you have gestational diabetes while pregnant? Does anyone in your family have diabetes? If so, you may be at risk for one of the nation’s deadly diseases – diabetes.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010, is American Diabetes Association Alert Day. On Diabetes Alert Day, the Association is asking the public “What will you do to stop diabetes?” and encouraging them to join the Stop Diabetes movement by taking the Diabetes Risk Test. The Diabetes Risk Test requires users to answer simple questions about weight, age, family history and other potential risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Risk Test will show users whether they are at low, moderate, or high risk for pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Studies have shown that type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by losing just 5 to 7 percent of body weight through regular physical activity (30 minutes a day, five days a week) and healthy eating.

Join the Stop Diabetes movement by taking the Diabetes Risk Test and find out if you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes by visiting stopdiabetes.com/takethetest or call (800) DIABETES.

(ARA) – As summer approaches, visions of opening your backyard up to friends, family, and neighbors flood the dreams of most Americans. Weeds and thin spots, the worst uninvited guests at the party, can stop the fun in its tracks, but the feeling of bare feet in lush grass doesn’t have to be a luxury.

Here are some things you might want to consider:

* Thistles, clover and dandelions – Prickly plants aren’t friendly to activities like running through the sprinkler or rolling down the hill. If bothered by the distinctive yellow blooms of the dandelion and purple or white flowers of the clover, these need to go.

* Well fed lawns are strong and vibrant. In general, feeding a few times a year will build a lawn that is ready to stand up to the weeds, heat, and drought.

There are a lot of different ways to practice weed control but starting early in the season is an effective way to control weeds in your lawn.

If your goal is to have a comfortable, friendly outdoor space for yourself and your family to relax in this summer, targeting the uninvited plants growing in your lawn is a great way to start.

(ARA) - As America’s favorite flower, roses can be found adorning homes in quaint coastal villages to rural farmlands, modern cities to qui