Life
Monday, 11 April 2011 17:35
Jazzecise - April Newsletter
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Monday, 28 March 2011 10:28
Parents: Prevent your child from being a victim of cyberbullying
Parents: Prevent your child from being a victim of cyberbullying
(ARA) - Cyberbullying, the bullying of a person through the use of an electronic device such as a computer or cell phone, is becoming a growing national problem. Anyone can be a victim of cyberbullying, but students are frequent targets. From fake Facebook pages, to the posting of embarrassing videos and photos, to Kick a Ginger Day (harassing red-headed people based on a 2005 episode of South Park), more than 20 percent of today's U.S. students, ages 10 to 18, report being a victim of cyberbullying (26 percent for girls versus 16 percent for boys).
Because of a number of highly publicized cases of cyberbullying - including most recently, the suicide of a Rutgers University freshman whose roommate posted a video of the student having sex in his dorm room - colleges, school districts, law enforcement and state legislatures are taking action to address cyberbullying.
More than two dozen states have specifically enacted legislation or updated statutes to address the growing problem of cyberbullying, according to FindLaw.com, the leading online resource for legal information. Most new laws mandate that school districts enact policies involving cyberbullying, and take steps to suspend or expel students who engage in it.
Here are some tips from FindLaw.com on what parents can do now to prevent cyberbullying, and what to do if you suspect that your child is being singled out by cyberbullies:
* Ask about friends or other kids. Your child may be reluctant to open up about being the victim of cyberbullying. Start the conversation by asking your child if he has heard about other kids at school who have been victimized. Because girls are more likely to be targets of cyberbullying, ask your student about groups of girls being mean to other groups or a specific girl, or if they've heard about boys texting inappropriate photos of girls.
* Watch for signs. Does your child seem withdrawn? Reluctant to use some forms of technology? Maybe depressed? These are generalizations, but if you've noticed any changes in your child's behavior, he or she may be the victim of technology torment. Have you noticed your child exiting out of a computer screen or smart phone quickly when you walk into a room? Is he or she spending an increasing amount of time on the Internet each day (specifically at night) or using multiple online accounts? Your child could be a cyberbully.
* Set boundaries. It's critical to talk to your child about cyberbullying - what it is and what to do if your child feels threatened. In addition, parents should set clear boundaries about your young person's use of technology. Clearly communicate your expectations for responsible use of technology and that, while you respect your child's privacy, you intend to monitor it. Explain the consequences if you believe your child is abusing or misusing technology such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, an e-mail account or mobile device, or if it is interfering with their school work.
* "It's just a joke." Many kids may not perceive that they are involved in cyberbullying. Creating a fake Facebook page, sending embarrassing photos of another student to each other with a cell phone or other actions involving the Internet or mobile communications may be perceived by kids as "normal," what other kids at their school do, or as "a joke" or "prank." In fact, based on school policies or local or state laws, those "jokes" could get your child in a lot of trouble.
* It's illegal. Cyberbullying is serious and, in a handful of states, illegal. If your child is involved in cyberbullying another child, he or she could face legal consequences, and you, as a parent, could become embroiled in a lawsuit if the parents of a student victimized by your child sue your child for emotional damages. In a growing number of cases across the country, students are being held responsible for cyberbullying, facing consequences that range from expulsion from school to prosecution.
* Passwords are private. Tell your kids not to share their online passwords with friends. A common way that kids bully each other online (posting hurtful comments or sending fake messages) is to do so from another kid's account.
* Friends don't send embarrassing photos. Make it clear to your child and his or her friends - it is not cool to send embarrassing photos taken at school events, parties, dances and other events to other students, who may ridicule or taunt the student in the embarrassing photo.
* It can haunt you. What many kids and adults don't realize is that what you post on Facebook and other social media can remain accessible on the Internet for years and years. Those hurtful comments, snide remarks and embarrassing photos (including inappropriate photos of their bodies or body parts) can be searched by college admissions offices and future employers.
* Others are watching. Parents should strongly recommend to their kids that they never, ever post or send to anyone photos of themselves in sexually suggestive poses. There have been numerous legal cases of boyfriends forwarding photos of their girlfriends (or ex-girlfriends) to other students. Such photos can make their way to the Internet and into the watchful eyes of child porn addicts.
* Monitor e-mails with teachers. It's sad, but true: Students can be intimidated and bullied by their teachers and school coaches, too. Insist that your young person always copies you, the parent, on any and all messages with their teachers and coaches.
* School policy. Find out if your school has a policy about cyberbullying. Many schools are just starting to develop these policies (in some states, schools are mandated to do so under state law). Unlike physical or verbal bullying that takes place on school grounds, most cyberbullying takes place outside of normal school hours. Going through your Parent Teacher Organization (PTO or PTA), advocate that your school set a policy for cyberbullying outside of school hours.
* Safe place. Cyberbullying is very real and it is possible that your student could at some point be one of its victims. Ask your school to create a safe place or resource for kids to report cyberbullying - such as a voicemail tip line - and ask your school to invite speakers to address the issue.
Because of a number of highly publicized cases of cyberbullying - including most recently, the suicide of a Rutgers University freshman whose roommate posted a video of the student having sex in his dorm room - colleges, school districts, law enforcement and state legislatures are taking action to address cyberbullying.
More than two dozen states have specifically enacted legislation or updated statutes to address the growing problem of cyberbullying, according to FindLaw.com, the leading online resource for legal information. Most new laws mandate that school districts enact policies involving cyberbullying, and take steps to suspend or expel students who engage in it.
Here are some tips from FindLaw.com on what parents can do now to prevent cyberbullying, and what to do if you suspect that your child is being singled out by cyberbullies:
* Ask about friends or other kids. Your child may be reluctant to open up about being the victim of cyberbullying. Start the conversation by asking your child if he has heard about other kids at school who have been victimized. Because girls are more likely to be targets of cyberbullying, ask your student about groups of girls being mean to other groups or a specific girl, or if they've heard about boys texting inappropriate photos of girls.
* Watch for signs. Does your child seem withdrawn? Reluctant to use some forms of technology? Maybe depressed? These are generalizations, but if you've noticed any changes in your child's behavior, he or she may be the victim of technology torment. Have you noticed your child exiting out of a computer screen or smart phone quickly when you walk into a room? Is he or she spending an increasing amount of time on the Internet each day (specifically at night) or using multiple online accounts? Your child could be a cyberbully.
* Set boundaries. It's critical to talk to your child about cyberbullying - what it is and what to do if your child feels threatened. In addition, parents should set clear boundaries about your young person's use of technology. Clearly communicate your expectations for responsible use of technology and that, while you respect your child's privacy, you intend to monitor it. Explain the consequences if you believe your child is abusing or misusing technology such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, an e-mail account or mobile device, or if it is interfering with their school work.
* "It's just a joke." Many kids may not perceive that they are involved in cyberbullying. Creating a fake Facebook page, sending embarrassing photos of another student to each other with a cell phone or other actions involving the Internet or mobile communications may be perceived by kids as "normal," what other kids at their school do, or as "a joke" or "prank." In fact, based on school policies or local or state laws, those "jokes" could get your child in a lot of trouble.
* It's illegal. Cyberbullying is serious and, in a handful of states, illegal. If your child is involved in cyberbullying another child, he or she could face legal consequences, and you, as a parent, could become embroiled in a lawsuit if the parents of a student victimized by your child sue your child for emotional damages. In a growing number of cases across the country, students are being held responsible for cyberbullying, facing consequences that range from expulsion from school to prosecution.
* Passwords are private. Tell your kids not to share their online passwords with friends. A common way that kids bully each other online (posting hurtful comments or sending fake messages) is to do so from another kid's account.
* Friends don't send embarrassing photos. Make it clear to your child and his or her friends - it is not cool to send embarrassing photos taken at school events, parties, dances and other events to other students, who may ridicule or taunt the student in the embarrassing photo.
* It can haunt you. What many kids and adults don't realize is that what you post on Facebook and other social media can remain accessible on the Internet for years and years. Those hurtful comments, snide remarks and embarrassing photos (including inappropriate photos of their bodies or body parts) can be searched by college admissions offices and future employers.
* Others are watching. Parents should strongly recommend to their kids that they never, ever post or send to anyone photos of themselves in sexually suggestive poses. There have been numerous legal cases of boyfriends forwarding photos of their girlfriends (or ex-girlfriends) to other students. Such photos can make their way to the Internet and into the watchful eyes of child porn addicts.
* Monitor e-mails with teachers. It's sad, but true: Students can be intimidated and bullied by their teachers and school coaches, too. Insist that your young person always copies you, the parent, on any and all messages with their teachers and coaches.
* School policy. Find out if your school has a policy about cyberbullying. Many schools are just starting to develop these policies (in some states, schools are mandated to do so under state law). Unlike physical or verbal bullying that takes place on school grounds, most cyberbullying takes place outside of normal school hours. Going through your Parent Teacher Organization (PTO or PTA), advocate that your school set a policy for cyberbullying outside of school hours.
* Safe place. Cyberbullying is very real and it is possible that your student could at some point be one of its victims. Ask your school to create a safe place or resource for kids to report cyberbullying - such as a voicemail tip line - and ask your school to invite speakers to address the issue.
Monday, 28 March 2011 10:24
Spring cleaning: Getting your home ready for the season
Spring cleaning: Getting your home ready for the season
(ARA) - A great clean looks as good as it feels, and with warmer weather right around the corner, there's nothing better than the feeling that your home is free of dirt, dust and grime. When you're a busy mom, keeping your house clean can seem like a never-ending battle. Arm yourself with the right mindset and a few simple tips to conquer your cleaning challenges.
Jessica Denay, author of "The Hot Mom Handbook" series has partnered with Swiffer to offer these tips to help keep your home clean while also balancing work and family:
* Don't try to do everything at once. Divide chores into daily, weekly, monthly and even seasonal tasks. Do the dishes daily, and try to throw out old food in your fridge as part of your weekly tasks. With spring upon us, dust build-up will be your nemesis. By dedicating certain days this spring to seasonal chores like dusting ceiling fans or sweeping out the fireplace, you can help better manage the upkeep of your home and do deep cleans less often. Denay recommends Swiffer 360 Dusters, which use thousands of fluffy fibers that change shape to fit virtually anywhere to trap and lock dust, dirt and pet hair without spreading it around your home.
* Know when to call it a day. It's easier to keep your home clean and keep a positive mindset if you set aside a few minutes each day to clean. If you have an overwhelming task list, attack each task in order of importance and get to the last ones on your list as time allows. Don't let cleaning consume a whole day or weekend.
* Don't waste time. Efficiency makes a huge difference. "Always clean from the top and work your way down, otherwise you'll be cleaning in circles," says Denay. It helps to focus on one area of the house at a time. Keeping all your cleaning supplies in a caddy can also prevent extra trips to retrieve items you might have forgotten or couldn't carry. Find shortcuts. Use products that can work on multiple messes like the Swiffer Sweeper that allows you to sweep and mop with one simple tool.
* Don't sweat the small stuff. It's completely possible to maintain the appearance of a clean home even if the most out-of-the-way places aren't cleaned regularly. Perception is reality and even if that area behind your fridge is a little dusty, nobody will notice. Concentrate on the open areas of your home that see a lot of traffic. If these areas are clean, your home will feel spotless and comfortable.
Following these tips will allow you to balance chores amongst free time. With just a little daily attention, you can make cleaning seem like less of a chore and more like a refreshing activity. "Having a sparkling clean home gives me peace of mind and the actual cleaning process makes me feel like I'm doing something good for myself and my family," says Denay.
Jessica Denay, author of "The Hot Mom Handbook" series has partnered with Swiffer to offer these tips to help keep your home clean while also balancing work and family:
* Don't try to do everything at once. Divide chores into daily, weekly, monthly and even seasonal tasks. Do the dishes daily, and try to throw out old food in your fridge as part of your weekly tasks. With spring upon us, dust build-up will be your nemesis. By dedicating certain days this spring to seasonal chores like dusting ceiling fans or sweeping out the fireplace, you can help better manage the upkeep of your home and do deep cleans less often. Denay recommends Swiffer 360 Dusters, which use thousands of fluffy fibers that change shape to fit virtually anywhere to trap and lock dust, dirt and pet hair without spreading it around your home.
* Know when to call it a day. It's easier to keep your home clean and keep a positive mindset if you set aside a few minutes each day to clean. If you have an overwhelming task list, attack each task in order of importance and get to the last ones on your list as time allows. Don't let cleaning consume a whole day or weekend.
* Don't waste time. Efficiency makes a huge difference. "Always clean from the top and work your way down, otherwise you'll be cleaning in circles," says Denay. It helps to focus on one area of the house at a time. Keeping all your cleaning supplies in a caddy can also prevent extra trips to retrieve items you might have forgotten or couldn't carry. Find shortcuts. Use products that can work on multiple messes like the Swiffer Sweeper that allows you to sweep and mop with one simple tool.
* Don't sweat the small stuff. It's completely possible to maintain the appearance of a clean home even if the most out-of-the-way places aren't cleaned regularly. Perception is reality and even if that area behind your fridge is a little dusty, nobody will notice. Concentrate on the open areas of your home that see a lot of traffic. If these areas are clean, your home will feel spotless and comfortable.
Following these tips will allow you to balance chores amongst free time. With just a little daily attention, you can make cleaning seem like less of a chore and more like a refreshing activity. "Having a sparkling clean home gives me peace of mind and the actual cleaning process makes me feel like I'm doing something good for myself and my family," says Denay.
Monday, 28 March 2011 10:21
How to overcome job interview jitters
How to overcome job interview jitters
Expert advice for new grads and seasoned pros alike on how to ace your next interview
(ARA) - High school and college graduations are just around the corner, and for many graduates, that means - gulp - it's time to start pounding the pavement with fellow job seekers.
However, a new poll of young adults conducted by Everest College reveals the job interview itself poses a major challenge for those seeking a new position. Four in 10 respondents (40 percent) said interviewing is the one skill they need to improve most to land a job, and nearly half (45 percent) think speaking skills are one of the most important attributes hiring managers use to judge potential candidates.
"In today's tough economy, the job interview is particularly important for those just starting their careers, and often means the difference between landing a job or going home empty-handed," says Sean Quinn, regional vice president of operations for Everest College, a leading provider of career-oriented diploma programs in health care, skilled trades and accounting.
Quinn and Everest College offer the following tips to ensure that an interview opportunity ends with a job offer.
Practice makes perfect
According to Everest's survey, nearly three of 10 (28 percent) named, "What is your worst quality?" the most difficult interview question to answer. Other tough questions were, "Where would you like to see yourself professionally in five years?" (20 percent) and, "What is your salary requirement?" (19 percent).
Practice answers to these, as well as other common inquiries, including "Tell me about yourself" and, "What skills and experiences do you bring?" Think of actual examples and prepare mini-sound bites to describe your skills.
Be yourself
Although the interview is a great time to sell yourself to a potential employer, be careful not to go overboard. Embellishment may be tempting - particularly for young graduates - but employers want to know what you've really done. Communicate any career training you have and how it relates to the position.
"Employers hiring at the entry level are looking at candidates for potential just as much as experience," Quinn says. "Grandiose claims of skills and qualifications from young candidates are red flags to employers."
Instead, be yourself, and in cases where you lack experience, display a willingness and desire to learn the necessary skills.
Every interaction counts
Anyone you encounter within proximity to the interview setting can have a direct influence on its outcome. Having a positive and respectful attitude creates a more welcoming environment all around you and sets you up for success during the interview.
"Be as courteous as possible to anyone you meet, whether it's the receptionist, security guard or parking attendant," comments Quinn. "And you never know. That stranger you meet on the elevator may turn out to be your interviewer."
Share your past work
A portfolio of past work or testimonials from previous employers or clients speaks volumes for your credibility and dedication to a job. Photography of output in the skilled trades may help illustrate the work you're capable of doing.
Follow-up
Good follow-through is important and shows a potential employer that a candidate cares about the opportunity. Be sure to send a note to everyone who interviewed you thanking them for their time and consideration.
Enhance your skills
Many students say that in this tough job market, their current credentials just aren't passing the test. If you find yourself lacking the necessary skills for employment, it's never too late to consider furthering your education.
Schools like Everest College cater to the demands of non-traditional students by offering fast-track programs, flexible classes and online education programs in high-demand fields, such as health care and accounting, allowing students to work or interview for jobs while enhancing their skills in the meantime.
However, a new poll of young adults conducted by Everest College reveals the job interview itself poses a major challenge for those seeking a new position. Four in 10 respondents (40 percent) said interviewing is the one skill they need to improve most to land a job, and nearly half (45 percent) think speaking skills are one of the most important attributes hiring managers use to judge potential candidates.
"In today's tough economy, the job interview is particularly important for those just starting their careers, and often means the difference between landing a job or going home empty-handed," says Sean Quinn, regional vice president of operations for Everest College, a leading provider of career-oriented diploma programs in health care, skilled trades and accounting.
Quinn and Everest College offer the following tips to ensure that an interview opportunity ends with a job offer.
Practice makes perfect
According to Everest's survey, nearly three of 10 (28 percent) named, "What is your worst quality?" the most difficult interview question to answer. Other tough questions were, "Where would you like to see yourself professionally in five years?" (20 percent) and, "What is your salary requirement?" (19 percent).
Practice answers to these, as well as other common inquiries, including "Tell me about yourself" and, "What skills and experiences do you bring?" Think of actual examples and prepare mini-sound bites to describe your skills.
Be yourself
Although the interview is a great time to sell yourself to a potential employer, be careful not to go overboard. Embellishment may be tempting - particularly for young graduates - but employers want to know what you've really done. Communicate any career training you have and how it relates to the position.
"Employers hiring at the entry level are looking at candidates for potential just as much as experience," Quinn says. "Grandiose claims of skills and qualifications from young candidates are red flags to employers."
Instead, be yourself, and in cases where you lack experience, display a willingness and desire to learn the necessary skills.
Every interaction counts
Anyone you encounter within proximity to the interview setting can have a direct influence on its outcome. Having a positive and respectful attitude creates a more welcoming environment all around you and sets you up for success during the interview.
"Be as courteous as possible to anyone you meet, whether it's the receptionist, security guard or parking attendant," comments Quinn. "And you never know. That stranger you meet on the elevator may turn out to be your interviewer."
Share your past work
A portfolio of past work or testimonials from previous employers or clients speaks volumes for your credibility and dedication to a job. Photography of output in the skilled trades may help illustrate the work you're capable of doing.
Follow-up
Good follow-through is important and shows a potential employer that a candidate cares about the opportunity. Be sure to send a note to everyone who interviewed you thanking them for their time and consideration.
Enhance your skills
Many students say that in this tough job market, their current credentials just aren't passing the test. If you find yourself lacking the necessary skills for employment, it's never too late to consider furthering your education.
Schools like Everest College cater to the demands of non-traditional students by offering fast-track programs, flexible classes and online education programs in high-demand fields, such as health care and accounting, allowing students to work or interview for jobs while enhancing their skills in the meantime.
Monday, 28 March 2011 10:18
Tips for planning the perfect outdoor wedding
Tips for planning the perfect outdoor wedding
(ARA) - There's something magical about an outdoor wedding. Being surrounded by nature as you say your vows can make your day even more special. Whether you're thinking of holding your event at a neighborhood park, at a favorite garden, or on the shoreline of a local lake, there are some important things to keep in mind so your day is perfect no matter what.
Many couples choose outdoor weddings and receptions because the event can be highly customizable. Additionally, the venue provides the opportunity to save money because you can rent everything you need. According to the American Rental Association (ARA), many rental businesses have Certified Event Rental Professionals on staff that are trained to help you choose the right rentals to plan your outdoor wedding without a lot of stress.
1. Tents protect from all types of weather
Making sure you and your guests are comfortable is very important, and renting tents is the easy way to add comfort and protection to your outdoor wedding space. During hot summer months, tents protect from the harsh sun. If Mother Nature decides to be testy, tents can protect from rain and minor wind issues.
Your local ARA rental store can help provide insight into the type of weather to expect for the time of year you're getting married, and can give advice on any extras you may want to order. From simple open-air tents to options with flooring, fans or air conditioning, you will find the right one for your dream wedding.
2. Customize with the ideal decorations
A tent provides a blank canvas, and from there you can create the atmosphere you desire. First decide on your vision. Are you thinking a casual outdoor event, or something more formal? How about a color scheme or a theme you'd like to follow?
Next, prioritize the most important elements. For example, if you want a formal, ocean-themed wedding, you might want to rent chandeliers for inside the tents, along with a fountain for the centerpiece and blue linens and sashes for the tables and chairs. Almost anything you can imagine can be rented, saving you time and money.
3. Decide on the right food options
Serving food and drinks in an outdoor environment takes a bit of extra planning. Be sure to interview caterers who have experience working outdoors with tented events and are familiar with the area where you'll be getting married.
An experienced caterer can help ensure that cold foods stay cold and hot ones stay warm so that guests have an enjoyable meal. If you're planning to provide the food yourself, make sure to rent the appropriate equipment to keep food temperatures safe. To make food prep easier, consider renting a portable kitchen if the facility doesn't have an option for you to use.
4. Plan for a seamless experience
Unless you're planning a backyard wedding, most of your guests will not be familiar with the event space. Clearly mark any areas where guests might get confused or lost. For example, use signs to tell guests where the tents are located and provide luminaries and strings of lights on pathways to the bathrooms or parking facilities.
Being able to hear well can also be an issue outdoors. Rent speakers for the ceremony and be sure to have the proper music equipment for the reception. Remember, most public outdoor spaces have noise ordinances, so check with the city to see about any restrictions or permits you may need.
Planning an outdoor wedding can be easy and affordable when you utilize a rental service. Remember to plan ahead and give your local ARA rental store as much notice as possible so you can get everything you want for your big day. Visit www.rentalhq.com for more information.
Many couples choose outdoor weddings and receptions because the event can be highly customizable. Additionally, the venue provides the opportunity to save money because you can rent everything you need. According to the American Rental Association (ARA), many rental businesses have Certified Event Rental Professionals on staff that are trained to help you choose the right rentals to plan your outdoor wedding without a lot of stress.
1. Tents protect from all types of weather
Making sure you and your guests are comfortable is very important, and renting tents is the easy way to add comfort and protection to your outdoor wedding space. During hot summer months, tents protect from the harsh sun. If Mother Nature decides to be testy, tents can protect from rain and minor wind issues.
Your local ARA rental store can help provide insight into the type of weather to expect for the time of year you're getting married, and can give advice on any extras you may want to order. From simple open-air tents to options with flooring, fans or air conditioning, you will find the right one for your dream wedding.
2. Customize with the ideal decorations
A tent provides a blank canvas, and from there you can create the atmosphere you desire. First decide on your vision. Are you thinking a casual outdoor event, or something more formal? How about a color scheme or a theme you'd like to follow?
Next, prioritize the most important elements. For example, if you want a formal, ocean-themed wedding, you might want to rent chandeliers for inside the tents, along with a fountain for the centerpiece and blue linens and sashes for the tables and chairs. Almost anything you can imagine can be rented, saving you time and money.
3. Decide on the right food options
Serving food and drinks in an outdoor environment takes a bit of extra planning. Be sure to interview caterers who have experience working outdoors with tented events and are familiar with the area where you'll be getting married.
An experienced caterer can help ensure that cold foods stay cold and hot ones stay warm so that guests have an enjoyable meal. If you're planning to provide the food yourself, make sure to rent the appropriate equipment to keep food temperatures safe. To make food prep easier, consider renting a portable kitchen if the facility doesn't have an option for you to use.
4. Plan for a seamless experience
Unless you're planning a backyard wedding, most of your guests will not be familiar with the event space. Clearly mark any areas where guests might get confused or lost. For example, use signs to tell guests where the tents are located and provide luminaries and strings of lights on pathways to the bathrooms or parking facilities.
Being able to hear well can also be an issue outdoors. Rent speakers for the ceremony and be sure to have the proper music equipment for the reception. Remember, most public outdoor spaces have noise ordinances, so check with the city to see about any restrictions or permits you may need.
Planning an outdoor wedding can be easy and affordable when you utilize a rental service. Remember to plan ahead and give your local ARA rental store as much notice as possible so you can get everything you want for your big day. Visit www.rentalhq.com for more information.
