Linda Ann Nickerson

Linda Ann Nickerson

Linda Ann Nickerson brings decades of reporting and a globally minded Midwestern perspective to a host of topics, balancing human interest with history, hard facts and often humor.
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  • Crazy Canines: Five Reasons Dogs Chase Their Tails
    Why do dogs run in circles and chase their own tails? This dizzying behavior makes dog lovers curious. Tail chasing is a common habit for dogs, even if it confounds humans. At least five causes may lead canines to trail their own tails.
  • A Parent Puzzles at 12 Planking Alternatives
    Planking isn’t the first fad to come and go. In fact, it’s not nearly the funniest or cleverest. Take a look at a dozen forms of planking. What’s next? A parent has to ask.
  • 7 Human Manners Musts for Approaching Service Animals
    What is a service animal? A service animal is trained to offer special assistance to an individual living with a disability. How ought we to interact with these creatures? These seven etiquette tips can guide us, when we see service animals out and about.
  • 25 Top Worst Christmas Songs Ever – so Far
    Christmas tunes may delight us … or cause us to cringe. Amid all the Christmas spirit, a few harmonic heartbreaks and melodic mishaps seem to creep through every year. Here are my top 25 worst Christmas song choices.
  • Expect to Spend $1,800 on Your Christmas Puppy
    Paws down, a puppy is the classic Christmas surprise for children. What does a puppy cost to buy, and what does it cost to keep the young dog? Here are some of the estimated expenses a new puppy owner should anticipate.
  • 10 Steps to Take when You Find a Lost Dog
    A confused and tag-less Australian Cattle Dog showed up on our lawn not long ago. With a few simple steps and some good fortune, we reunited the errant pup with his anxious owner in under an hour. What can you do, if a lost dog crosses your path?
  • Holiday Crafting: Make a Christmas Tree from an Old Paperback Book
    Do you love Christmas crafts? Are you a book lover? If you answered “Yes” to both, you’ll love this creative holiday project. Kids of all ages can participate in making festive home-crafted Christmas tree gifts and decorations from old soft-covered books.
  • Five Ways to Deal with a Snoring Dog
    .Does your dog snore? Usually, snoring does not harm a dog, although it may impact the sleep of those around him. As a loving pet owner, how can you keep your dog from snoring and keeping you awake? Try these five pointers to silence a snoring pooch.
  • Pet Owners: Six Essentials to Leave with Dog Sitters
    Pet sitters can be lifesavers, both literally and theoretically. Ask any traveling dog owner that’s ever left her prized pet home with a visiting caretaker. Be sure to leave these six important items with your dog sitter.
  • DIY Halloween Costume: Super-Simple Spider
    Eek! Is that a spider? Nope! It’s just a Halloween trick or treater in a clever do-it-yourself costume. Have some arachnophobia fun, and spin your own super-simple Halloween spider outfit with stuff you already have.
  • Seven Ways to Fill Your Freelance Writing Beat Pipeline
    If you are a writer, how do you find subjects for upcoming articles? What do you do with ideas, while you prepare to write about them? Try these seven ways to fill and file your freelance writing beat idea pipeline and streamline your composition process.
  • Steve Jobs Quotes: My Top 25 Favorite Lines from the Tech Whiz
    Technology lovers will long mourn the loss of Apple Computer founder Steve Jobs. Jobs passed away October 5, 2011, after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer. Here are 25 favorite quotations from Apple Founder Steve Jobs.
  • What Are the Favorite and Least Favorite Halloween Candy Treats?
    What’s your most favorite Halloween candy of all? Which sweet surprise do you stockpile before trick or treating starts? Check out these survey results to find out which Halloween candy picks are the most popular for grownups. Is yours listed?
  • Five Super Halloween Costumes for Moms Going Trick-or-Treating
    On Halloween, mothers join the fun, donning costumes to go with children on trick-or-treat travels. Grown-ups may be too old to beg for candy, but moms can still dress up and celebrate with their kids. What are the most popular Halloween outfits for moms?
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  • Five Fun & Kid-Friendly Halloween Costumes for Moms
    Who says Halloween’s just for kids? Mothers may have outgrown trick or treating, but many moms still enjoy dressing up in fun costumes to go with kids to Halloween parties and even door to door. What are the most fun Halloween costumes for Moms?
  • DIY Halloween Costume: Kate Middleton
    Want to be Kate Middleton for Halloween? The Duchess of Cambridge is one of the hottest trick-or-treat costume choices this year. Here are three of our favorite ways to pull this fancy look without spending a king’s ransom.
  • DIY Halloween Costume: Prince William
    Want to be Prince William for Halloween? The dashing Brit is a hot Halloween trick-or-treat costume subject this year. Pick from these two fun, but fiscally frugal, do-it-yourself masquerade options, the royal bridegroom or the polo player.
  • 30 Hypothetical Epithets for Today’s Celebrities
    Tombstone epithets may be touching or tickling. For famous folks, cemetery markers often bear pithy phrases or statements they made popular onscreen, in songs, onstage or in print. What possible epithets might fit today’s most popular celebrities?
  • Keep 'Em Covered: Holly Madison's $1 Million Breasts Join High-priced Celebrity Body Part Policies
    Holly Madison fits right in with 28 curious, costly insured celebrity body parts. Playboy playmate and reality TV personality Madison’s breasts are now covered, at least by insurance. What other celebrities have insured various facets of their physiques?
  • Practice Creative Pumpkin Carving for Charity with Free Halloween Stencil Downloads
    Halloween pumpkins can be ornate and artistic holiday craft projects. Simple jack-o-lanterns still abound, but detailed designs are popular. Better Homes and Gardens now offers free pumpkin carving designs to benefit charities. Here’s how to use them.
  • 10 Ways to Prepare in Autumn for Winter Dog Care
    As brisk fall days signal the end of summer and the coming of colder weather, what should dog owners do to care for their canine companions? Here are 10 tips to help dog lovers look after their Labradors, Boxers, Poodles, Retrievers or other canines.
  • Putting it Off - My Top 25 Favorite Quotations on Procrastination
    Are you a procrastinator? Many popular figures, both past and present, have made quotable quips and pithy phrasings on the subject of procrastination. Here are my top 25 favorites. Don’t wait! Read them right now!
  • Top 10 Bible Verses for Get Well Cards
    Get well cards can raise the spirits of those who are ill. Why not write an uplifting Bible verse in a get well card for someone who is sick? Here are my top 10 favorite Scriptures for raising the spirits of folks who are battling illness or infirmity.
  • Writing Wisdom - My Top 24 Favorite Quotations on Writing
    What words of wisdom have famous wordsmiths offered about writing? Take a look at quotable statements from 24 of the most oft-quoted writers of all time.
  • Pat Robertson's Alzheimer's Divorce Advice Sickens Many, as it Should
    How do folks feel about Pat Robertson’s controversial comments on divorce and dementia? Is it wrong for a spouse to divorce a husband or wife with Alzheimer's? Believers of every stripe weigh in on the weighty issue here.
  • DIY Computer Repairs: Waging My Own War on Alien Invaders
    Home computer crises may not equal War of the Worlds or Men in Black for ghastly intergalactic invasions, but they pose dangerous threats of their own. It pays to self-protect. I'm guarding my system against potential predators in a few simple ways.
  • Recovering from a High-impact Fall: My Weekly Fitness Routine
    After a recent tumble from a horse, my weekly fitness routine was tossed and nearly lost. With a broken shoulder and several fractured ribs, I was unable to ride. How have I managed a weekly fitness routine while recovering from a sports injury?
  • Chocolate Milkshake Mania: Calorie Counts in Top Fast Food Shakes
    How many calories do chocolate milkshakes contain? Here is a sampling of estimated calorie totals for chocolate milkshakes at several favorite fast food restaurants across the United States. See where your hot spot for a cool shake measures up.
  • 10 Years Later: 10 Individuals Reflect on 9/11
    How did folks feel when terrorists hit the U.S. on September 11, 2001? Ten diverse people (including an airline employee and an NYFD deputy chief's daughter), answered these questions: Where were you on September 11? How did the tragic events impact you?
  • I Run My Own Business as a Communications Professional
    Is self employment a valid option in today's challenging economy? A growing number of professionals may be adventurous enough to start their own businesses. My own journey through self employment began more than 20 years ago. Take a look.
  • Bridal Shower Game: The Candy Bar Sweet Story of Romance
    Here's a fun bridal shower game. Print this original (copyrighted) story. Instruct wedding shower guests to fill in the blanks with the names of popular candies. The complete story appears at the end, so the bridal party hosts can read it afterwards.
  • Take Your Picks from 2011 CMA Awards Nominations
    Country music fans eagerly await the 2011 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, on deck for November 9. Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood return as hosts for the popular event. Who are the 2011 CMA Awards nominees?
  • Seven Great Ways to Wear White After Labor Day
    Fashion mavens caution ladies to pack up white apparel and accessories after Labor Day. Stylish ladies boldly skip traditional fashion rules and incorporate whites into their post-summer wardrobes. Here are seven great ways to wear white after Labor Day.
  • Amy Winehouse Adoption Rumors: Gee, I Thought Adoption was Tougher
    COMMENTARY - Adopt this Amy Winehouse news, if you will. Here's one adoptive parent who might through a childish fit over the possibility of a publicly troubled, yet famous, individual's apparent family options.
  • Camis and Courtesy: Stop Strap Attacks at Work
    Strap attacks are tacky, especially on the job! All summer, bra straps slip out from under women's tank tops, halter tops and sleeveless blouses or dresses. Here are four ways to keep bra straps from appearing in public.
  • Memory Loss: 10 Tips for Keeping Track of Important Things
    Memories can be magical, but memory loss can be a nightmare for many. What can you do to maximize your own ability to retain your memory and remember important facts and tasks? Here are 10 tips for keeping track of critical details.
  • Seven Pointers for Safe Summer Dog Walking
    Does your pet pooch hound you to take him out for exercise, even on the hottest dog days of summer? What special measures must you take, so you and your dog can stroll safely in summer? Here are seven key steps for dog walking in the warmest weather.
  • Betty Ford's Death Leaves Just Six Living American First Ladies
    Betty Ford, who served as American First Lady to 38th U.S. President Gerald R. Ford from 1974 to 1977, died July 8 in her home in Rancho Mirage, California. The loss of Betty Ford leaves six American First Ladies still living.
  • 14 Tips for Safer Summer Horse Trailering
    Summer months bring horse show season and trail riding. However, competitive and recreational riding events means horses may be transported to other locations. Here are 14 safety steps for equestrians hauling horses off-site.
  • Granny's Favorite Chewy Ginger Cookies
    Oh, snap! Who doesn't love ginger snaps, especially when those molasses-filled treats are soft and chewy? Try this tasty traditional cookie recipe on your own family, and you will discover why I begged my grandmother to write it down for me years ago.
  • Recipe: Cinnamon Oat Crunch Cookies
    Cookies don't have to be dietary no-no's for healthy food fans. These delicious home-baked goodies are packed with fiber and good things. Why not whip up a batch for a family gathering, a holiday party, a summer picnic or a potluck?
  • Recipe: Cracklin' Oat Bran Cookies
    Do you have a cookie fiend in your home? These crunchy, crispy cookies are a family favorite, made with Kellogg's Cracklin' Oat Bran cereal. Don't tell my family how nutritious these home-baked cookies are. I promise I won't tell your family, either.
  • 12 TIps for Shopping at Farmers' Markets
    Fresh-air shopping may boast the freshest organic produce, beautiful blooms, juiciest jams and other farm offerings. Are farmers' markets the best deals for smart shoppers? Here are a dozen practical pointers for picking up bargains and great buys.
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  • 11 Foods to Skip for a Migraine-free Fourth of July
    Can headache sufferers find independence from migraine pain on Independence? Patriotic picnic spreads offer tempting varieties. Which traditional Fourth of July foods are most likely to trigger migraines in headache-prone individuals?
  • Appealing 4th of July Potato Salad Recipes from Y!CN Writers
    The 4th of July is Independence Day in the United States, and the biggest picnic day of the year for patriotic Americans. What's on the menu for your 4th of July picnic? Here's a variety of delicious potato salad recipes from Yahoo! Contributor Network wr
  • Toby Keith Bets on the Badge for Sherriff Cogburn in Iowa Derby
    You can be sure country megastar Toby Keith will be hooting and hollering for his own 'œAmerican Ride,' as his own Sherriff Cogburn races in the 2011 Iowa Derby on June 25. Will the cowboy music icon bet the ranch on his prized colt?
  • Is Haiku for You?
    How do you write a haiku poem? Read, and see. Here's a multi-haiku example, including both instructions and patterning for writing haiku poetry. It's easy and fun!
  • Father's Day Treat: Pop Chops in a Pan
    Most fathers love to barbecue burgers, chops, ribs and steaks. However, on Father's Day, why not give Pop the day off and cook up a meat-lover's feast fit for a king? Try this traditional family pork chop recipe for Father's Day, and watch Dad go wild.
  • Aussie Study Adds Higher Cancer Risk to Dangers of Heroin
    Brace yourself for a news flash. Drug abuse is potentially hazardous to your health. In fact, dangerous drugs like heroin can kill you. Now, researchers have linked opiate use to increased cancer deaths.
  • Porn Charges Put Camp Director in Hot Water and Raise Parents' Caution
    Parents may think about sending children to overnight camp. A fired Wisconsin camp director faces pornography charges for shooting videos of showering kids. Is this not the scariest scenario folks might consider, while shipping a child off to summer camp?
  • Seven Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Pets
    Quality veterinary care plays a key role in keeping pets healthy and pet owners happy. How can you choose the best veterinarian for your own pets? As an animal lover and pet owner, I did a survey on veterinary care selection. Here's what I discovered.
  • Skin Cancer is No Picnic
    Sunscreen sellers scream about the perils of overexposure to ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays from the sun. Dermatologists dramatically declare the dangers of suntanning. Do we listen to these skin cancer warnings? I do now.
  • Spotting Skin Cancers May Be as Easy as A-B-C-D
    Sunshine season is here, and your epidermis is showing! Are you ready for fun in the sun? Are you prepared to protect your skin from dermatological cancers? Do you know the ABCDs of skin cancer? Here's how to tell when a mole is not just a mole.
  • 10 Ways to Minimize Your Horse's Risk of EHV-1 or Equine Herpes Virus
    Veterinarians and horse owners in the U.S. and Canada grew extra concerned about Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) after several horses had the potentially fatal disease after a national horse show. What can you do to keep your horse from contracting EHV-1?
  • Celebrity Commencement Speaker Roster 2011
    Graduating seniors will soon file onto college and university stages to collect diplomas. What celebrity speakers will offer witty or wise words to the commencement celebrants? Here are some of the most popular headliner speakers for 2011 graduations.
  • 7 Pet-Friendly Mother's Day Celebrations
    Linda Ann Nickerson brings decades of experience and a globally-minded Midwestern perspective to a host of topics, balancing human interest with history, hard facts and often humor.
  • Dog Do's And Don'ts For Pet Parks
    Do you love to slip on sneakers and hit the dog park with your pet? Many communities offer fenced lands for residents to play freely with their dogs. Here are some pet-iquette highlights from these experts and personal experience.
  • Just a Gem: A Sonnet Revealing a Find Without Feeling
    Shakespearean Sonnet Poetry Contest - This modern-day original poem adheres to the format of the traditional Shakespearean sonnet. When does a gem lose its value, and when does strength prove futile?
  • Dumpster Rescue Dog Braveheart Fetches Nationwide Support
    Braveheart, a young Labrador/Shepherd mix, has gone from death's door into the hearts of animal lovers across the U.S. The dying dog was discovered in a dumpster. The dog's sad story is fetching compassion from folks in all walks of life.
  • Spring Fashion Savings: 10 Ways to Shop in Your Own Closet
    Fun spring styles fill store windows, as rising temperatures bring pleasant weather. How can you update your wardrobe without buying new clothing? Try these 10 steps for shopping in your own closet to create stylish ensembles from items you already own.
  • Personal Picks for 'American Idol' Top 11 Elton John Song Auditions
    The "American Idol" Top 11 of Season 10 rock the songs of Sir Elton John on March 30. Song selection is critical to "Idol." What hit singles should the "Idol" singers select? Here are my Elton John song picks for the finalists.
  • Jennie-O Recalls 55,000 Pounds of Frozen Turkey Burgers
    Hormel's Jennie-O recalled 55,000 pounds of turkey burgers. The frozen raw poultry burgers, distributed nationwide at Sam's Club stores, may be contaminated with salmonella. At least 12 people have become sick with salmonellosis, prompting the recall.
  • 80+ Celebrity Parents of Twins
    Well-known stars expecting twins include Mariah Carey & Nick Cannon, John Travolta & Kelly Preston and Mary Stuart Masterson & Jeremy Davidson. Why do stars seem to have more twins than the rest of us? Here are 80 celebrity parents with twins.
  • Spring Fashion Outlook: Top 10 Styles We'd like to Lose This Season
    Changing seasons find us swapping our wardrobes, choosing styles more suitable for warmer weather. Fashion designers are unveiling the latest looks and casting aside yesterday's apparel. Cleaning my closet, I'm discarding these 10 ridiculous styles.
  • Is NBC's 'The Voice' Just Another 'American Idol'?
    NBC TV debuts "The Voice" on Tuesday, April 26. This singing contest is likely to rival FOX TV's "American Idol," although several key factors make the series unique. What are the primary differences between "The Voice" and "American Idol"?
  • Horse Show Packing List: 85 Must-Haves for Equestrian Competitions
    Warmer weather brings horse show season. What must equestrians take along to competitions? What equipment and supplies will horseback riders need for their horses and themselves? Here's a checklist of 85 items to pack before leaving for a horse show.
  • Ways to Keep Your Private Finances Out of Social Networking
    Social networking communities like Facebook, Linked-In and Twitter are exploding in popularity. But private information may be transmitted beyond one's own circle of friends. How can you guard your pocketbook and personal finances while networking online?
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  • Hide a Helmet Q&A: Stylish Equestrian Safety
    Can horseback riders be both safe and stylish at the same time? Many equestrian disciplines now require safety helmets for riders. Latina Raville, horse lover and founder of Hide a Helmet, discussed her custom equestrian helmet cover enterprise.
  • Money & Manners: 10 Tips for Tipping for Pizza Delivery
    What is the appropriate approach for tipping pizza delivery drivers? These individuals carry food orders, often in their own vehicles, to customers' homes and workplaces. How can pizza delivery customers decide how and how much to tip? Try these 10 tips.
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  • 10 Ways We Save Money at the Mall
    Fashion mavens need not be money moguls to pocket plenty of savings while browsing at the mall. A few simple pointers can lead to bargain bonuses for smart shoppers. These 10 frugal tips can considerably cut costs, especially for fashions and accessories.
  • Madison Mounted Patrol Q&A: Policing Madison Political Demonstrations
    Madison's Mounted Patrol led crowd control, as demonstrators gathered recently in Wisconsin's Capitol city. What did saddled-up patrollers face during the protests? Officer Sarah McLaughlin discussed the unit's role in supervising the political rallies.
  • Five Offbeat Gas-Saving Tips That Don't Really Work
    Everyone's an expert at devising ways to save gasoline. As fuel prices work their way up, conversations focus on tips for conserving gas. Here are five honest-to-goodness tricks I have learned and rejected. Don't try these at home '" or on the road.
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  • Petfinder Adopts the Internet March 15 for Pet Adoption
    Have you ever adopted a pet? Would you? Petfinder urges bloggers to promote pet adoption March 15, as the online animal adoption database marks its 15th birthday. Animal lovers can join the festivities for Petfinder's Adopt the Internet Day in many ways.
  • 10 Ways to Pick Up Quick Cash
    Times are tough. Without taking out high-interest payday loans, cash advances or second mortgages, how can you make money fast? Here are 10 simple, but perhaps unexpected, ways to pick up quick cash. It's possible, if you simply get your assets in gear.
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  • Easter's Origins and Meaning
    When is Easter, and what does it mean? How does Resurrection Sunday relate to the Jewish Passover? To Christians, Easter is the apex of the spiritual calendar, celebrating the Jesus' resurrection. Here's how it all started and why.
  • Trotting Through the Horse at Chicago's Field Museum
    Visitors are galloping to Chicago's Field Museum to view more than dinosaurs and digs or mammoths and mummies. "The Horse" opened recently at the Field Museum. What is included in "The Horse" exhibit? Is "The Horse" worth the trip?
  • Kirk Douglas Steps on Stage Again for Oscar's Big Night
    Kirk Douglas, virtually absent from the public eye for years, appeared at the 83rd Annual Academy Awards on and brought the house down. The actor (94) had a stroke in 1996 and has struggled to regain his speech. Here are highlights from Douglas' career.
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  • Pick a Perfect Fit for Glee Wannabee Leona Lewis
    Leona Lewis has made no secret of her deep desire to appear on "Glee," even suggesting her own characters. How might the 25-year-old pop star fit in Fox TV's "Glee" cast? Here's a possible story line for Leona Lewis on "Glee."
  • 99 Classic Read-aloud Books for Read Across America Day and Everyday
    Paging avid readers! Grab a book, and dive in. March 2 is Read Across America Day. Think back to your own childhood. What was your favorite read-aloud book? Here are 99 classic read-aloud books for children of all ages. How many do you remember?
  • Which American Idol Top 24 Finalists Will Make the Top 12?
    "American Idol" judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler whittled down the Season 10 roster to 24. Here are the Top 24 finalists, ranging in age from 16 to 26. Which "American Idol" finalists are likely to make the Top 12?
  • IHOP Offers Free Pancakes March 1
    March 1 is National Pancake Day, and IHOP is flipping free flapjacks to celebrate. Pancake lovers can set up free celebrity wake-up calls for National Pancake Day. How does IHOP's free pancake deal and celebrity wake-up call program stack up?
  • American Idol's Finalist Casey Abrams Hospitalized
    Casey Abrams is an "American Idol" Top 24 finalist, but his standing may be shaky. The 19-year-old California musician was hospitalized with abdominal pains. What will happen to Casey Abrams' "American Idol" run?
  • Wisconsin Docs Face Exams for Writing Notes for Hooky-playing Teachers
    Wisconsin medical agencies are examining claims that state-licensed physicians wrote medical excuses for teachers skipping school for Madison demonstrations last week. Doctors were videotaped, distributing for notes to teachers attending the protests.
  • The Monkees Regroup for 45th Anniversary UK Tour
    Vintage pop stars The Monkees will reunite for a 45th anniversary tour. The 1960s crew, perhaps the original boy band, will kick off their ten-stop series of gigs in Liverpool, birthplace of The Beatles. Tickets go on sale February 25 for The Monkees.
  • 83rd Academy Awards Celebrity Presenters List Keeps Adding Stars
    Who will present the gold statuettes for the 83rd Academy Awards on February 27th? Here's the roster to-date of Oscar's presenters for 2011, a virtual thespian veteran's day salute. The list includes Academy Awards nominees and winners from past years.
  • My Personal Oscar Picks for 2011 ... Just Because
    Stars will converge upon Hollywood's Kodak Theatre February 27 for the 83rd Academy Awards. Which actors, directors and movies do you like for the Oscars? Here are my personal Oscar picks, without explanation or equivocation. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Justin Bieber Comes Out Against Abortion, Scores MVP in NBA Game and Dies on TV
    Justin Bieber may be a little overexposed. Recently, Justin Bieber came out against casual sex and abortion, caught the MVP title in an NBA All-Star Celebrity Game and was gunned down on network television. Poor Justin Bieber. "Never Say Never" indeed.
  • Endangered Wolves Endangering Wisconsin Pets
    Wolves are on the rampage in Wisconsin, preying on pets and farm animals. In 2010, wolves attacked animals on at least 47 farms, many more than recent years. Wolf attacks are highest in northern areas, with wolves often targeting hunting dogs.
  • One Dress Protest Q&A: Kristy Powell Vows Fashion Fast with 365-day Dress
    Can one woman, wearing one dress for a year, change the way people think about fashion? Kristy Powell is deliberately wearing one little black dress for an entire year. The One Dress Protest crusader answers some personally tailored questions here.
  • Hospital Freebie Infant Mittens Recalled
    Brand-new moms love all those hospital freebies. Now one promoter may need a hand. Nurses Choice recalled 4,700 pairs of infant mitts. Newborn Keepsake Mittens were distributed free in maternity wards across the U.S. from October 2010 to January 2011.
  • British Prince William May Sport Scarlet Irish Guard Uniform for Royal Wedding
    Will the red-letter nuptials include a crimson-clad royal bridegroom? Style mavens refuse to describe Kate Middleton's bridal gown. But Prince William, now Colonel of the Irish Guards, may choose from Irish Guard red or RAF blue for the royal wedding.
  • Lindsay Lohan's $575 White Courtroom Minidress is a Sell-out, but No Steal
    Lindsay Lohan sported a tight white minidress to her February 9 arraignment in Los Angeles. The pristine garment, perhaps chosen to look innocent, was no fashion steal at $575. Overnight, the Kimberly Ovitz frock sold out in online boutiques.
  • Smashing Pumpkins' D'arcy Wretzky Arrested for DUI, Jailed for Loose Horses
    D'arcy Wretsky seems to have gone from Smashing Pumpkins to raising ruckus as a recluse. The former rock bassist was arrested in Michigan for drunk driving. Then the past rocker was jailed on an outstanding warrant for letting her horses run through town.
  • Berries and Chocolate May Ward Off Parkinson's Disease
    Chocolate-dipped strawberries are popular romantic treats for special occasions. Blueberries, raspberries and other sweet and tangy berries are popular produce too. Now, medical research points to these tasty treats as possible disease protectors.
  • CSO Conductor Riccardo Muti's Fainting Fall Providentially Leads to Pacemaker
    Can health emergencies uncover underlying conditions that need medical attention? Ask Riccardo Muti, CSO conductor, who fainted during a rehearsal. Physicians found a heart issue and fitted the maestro with a pacemaker. Strike one up for providence.
  • Valentine's Day Plants and Flowers May Be Fatal to Felines
    Cat lovers may enjoy Valentine's Day flowers and plants, but many blooms and greens may be poisonous to these pets. What plants are toxic to cats? What plants are not poisonous for felines? What ill symptoms may cats experience after eating toxic plants?
  • Beware of Valentine's Flowers that May Poison Your Dog
    Valentine's Day gift givers and dog owners may not realize that many flowers and plants are poisonous to pets. What plants are toxic to dogs? What ill symptoms may dogs experience after eating poisonous plants? What plants are not poisonous for pooches?
  • Four Final Options: Dealing Humanely with a Deceased Horse's Remains
    Horses gallop into our hearts and stay forever. However, as every long-time horse owner knows, humans often outlive their horses. What are the options for dealing with the remains of a horse that has died? In most areas, three or four possibilities exist.
  • Christina Aguilera Flubs the National Anthem at Super Bowl XLV
    Christina Aguilera flubbed the lyrics of the National Anthem at Super Bowl XLV. Sometimes a mantel filled with Grammy Awards isn't enough. Christina Aguilera should have boned up on America's hymn of patriotism. After all, accuracy counts with Americans.
  • 10 Tips for Super Bowl Party Hosts to Protect Alcohol-consuming Guests
    On Super Bowl Sunday, sports fans gather to watch the NFL's big game. These parties feature popular foods and often alcoholic beverages. Here are 10 tips for football party hosts to protect guests during the Super Bowl and on the drive home
  • In-home Drug Thefts Rising During Realtor Open Houses
    Drug addicts and dealers are stealing medications from open houses. Real estate agents are warning sellers to stash medications while homes are shown. Drug thefts during realtor open houses are not new, but the incidents appear to be increasing.
  • Boston Subway Snake Escapee Found a Month Later
    Boston subway passengers may breathe a collective sigh of relief. The missing boa constrictor has been found, a month after disappearing in a subway car on January 6. The snake slipped away from around her owner's neck and ended up on the next subway car.
  • Super Bowl XLV Word Scramble for Football Fan Parties
    Super Bowl Sunday gives athletes and athletic supporters an opportunity to gather for the NFL's biggest football game. Are you hosting or attending a Super Bowl party this year? Try these Super Bowl XLV word scrambles for a great icebreaker.
  • Super Bowl Mad Libbers' Game for Football Fan Parties
    Super Bowl Sunday draws folks together for football-friendly fun. Athletes and athletic supporters gather to watch the Super Bowl, the NFL's biggest game. Are you hosting a Super Bowl party this year? Here's a fun activity and crowd icebreaker.
  • Coyote Mating Season Incites Increased Attacks on Suburban Pets
    Coyotes are no strangers to the suburban sprawl; Northern Illinois is no exception. During the winter months, these canines tend to prey upon domesticated animals more often than usual. Why does coyote mating season seem to provoke more attacks on pets?
  • Menopausal Hot Flashes Linked to Reduced Breast Cancer Risk
    Could hot flashes be a blessing? Seattle scientists have documented a link between severe menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes) and reduced risk of breast cancer. Falling hormonal levels in menopause may be the secret to lower breast cancer risks.
  • Jennifer Lopez & Marc Anthony Top Obama's White House Super Bowl XLV Guest List
    U.S. President Barack Obama is hosting a Super Bowl Sunday party at the White House. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony top the President's VIP guest list. Who else is on President Obama's Super Bowl Sunday guest list?
  • 10 Super Bowl Trivia Questions for Football Fans
    Super Bowl parties bring out the football fan in everyone, even folks who can't tell a sack from a blitz. Everybody's an armchair quarterback on Super Bowl Sunday. Test folks at your Super Bowl party with 10 Super Bowl trivia questions for football fans.
  • Oldest Living Person Eunice Sanborn Dies January 31
    Eunice Sanborn, American supercentenarian, died January 31, in her Texas home. Eunice Sanborn, Guinness Book of World Records titleholder as the World's Oldest Living Person, was 114 when she died. She might have been 115; no one is absolutely certain.
  • Miranda Lambert, Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Lead 46th ACM Nominations
    Miranda Lambert and Ronnie Dunn announced nominees for the 46th ACM awards February 1. Nominees include long-time country favorites and newcomers. eba McEntyre and Blake Shelton will emcee the ACM awards April 3. Here are the ACM nominees.
  • UK Researchers Say Breastfeeding May Not Be Enough for Babies' First Six Months
    Mothers have breastfed their babies since time began. No one debates the benefits of breastfeeding, but researchers now question whether breastfeeding alone offers enough nutrition. What did the U.K. study uncover about breastfeeding and infant nutrition?
  • Scientists Announce Warmer Homes May Lead to More Obesity
    Want to lose weight? Turn down the heat! Could your home thermostat be making you fat? A team of scientists claim folks who hover in highly heated homes in winter are more prone to gaining weight than those who turn their thermostats down even slightly.
  • Super Bowl Sunday 2011 is Also National Porn Sunday
    On Super Bowl Sunday 2011, while millions prepare for the year's biggest football game, hundreds of churches will host events of a different sort. Sunday, February 6, 2011, is National Porn Sunday, a one-day anti-pornography event.
  • American Idol's Casey James Joining Sugarland on Tour
    Casey James, a top three finalist from the 9th season of "American Idol," will tour with Sugarland, beginning in March. Sony/BNA Records said Casey James will step in as opening act for Sugarland. Casey James' first solo album is expected by mid-summer.
  • Charlie Sheen Blames Hernia for Abdominal Pain and Hospitalization
    Hollywood bad boy Charlie Sheen was rushed to a L.A. hospital January 27 with severe abdominal pains. A 911 call summoned an emergency response team to the 45-year-old actor's home. Did a hernia really cause Charlie Sheen's severe stomach distress?
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  • Milwaukee's Scott Dangerfield is J.Lo's Lipstick-smeared "American Idol" Favorite
    Scott Dangerfield picks up three golden tickets, but can he get any respect from American Idol? The Milwaukee student teacher met "American Idol" judges with lipstick on and sang his heart out. Jennifer Lopez proclaimed Scott Dangerfield her favorite.
  • Top 10 Tips for Personal Data Privacy
    How private is your personal data? Are you well protected, or are you likely to fall prey to identity thieves? January 28th is Personal Data Privacy Day. Here are 10 tips for keeping personal data private and protected '" on Data Privacy Day and every day.
  • Skip the Scams - Seven Tips for Super Bowl Ticket Buyers
    Super Bowl tickets are selling fast! Real and fake Super Bowl tickets are circulating nationwide. Can you spot a counterfeit Super Bowl ticket? Here are seven steps to identifying real Super Bowl tickets and ruling out fake Super Bowl tickets this year.
  • Our Russian Adoption Fiasco
    Our first adoption was simple. Naively, we wondered at those who bemoaned the potential pitfalls of the American adoption system. Then we tried a Russian adoption, and our real education began. The bottom fell out of our Russian adoption. Nyet!
  • Celebrity Chef and Horse Eater Gordon Ramsay Jumps on Horses for Swollen Face
    Gordon Ramsay grew extra puffy lately, fueling rumors the chef might have hair plugs or botox. Gordon Ramsay says nay, blaming a horse allergy. But Gordon Ramsay has cooked and eaten horse meat and baked with horse milk. Is he really allergic to horses?
  • The King's Speech Leads Oscar Nominations with a Dozen Nods
    Oscar-winning actress Mo'Nique ("Precious") announced the 83rd Academy Awards nominees January 25th. "The King's Speech" captured 12 Oscar nods, followed by "True Grit" with 10. "Inception" and "The Social Network" earned eight Oscar nods each.
  • U.K. Fire and Rescue Crew Hauls Horse from Swimming Pool
    Mischief found himself in trouble this past weekend, horsing around. The 14-hand horse was trapped in a backyard swimming pool in the U.K. Apparently, Mischief the horse cannot walk on water. A dozen rescue workers hauled the horse from the pool.
  • 10 Easy Tips for Faking Your Body Out and Losing Weight
    Who wants to lose a few pounds without really trying? Most weight loss diets are boring, and exercise programs can be trying too. Is there no easier way to lose weight? Here are 10 smart secrets to faking out your own body into slimming down.
  • 10 Tips for Caring for Furry House Pets in Winter Weather
    Pet owners shiver when winter weather drives temperatures way down. What special precautions must animal lovers take to care for their furry companions in frigid winter conditions? Here are 10 tips for caring for furry house pets in the coldest weather.
  • 10 Tips for Pet Owner Etiquette in Veterinary Waiting Rooms
    A veterinarian's waiting room can be calm or chaotic, depending upon the conduct of the customers and their animals. How often has an ill-behaved pet turned a waiting room into mad mayhem? Here are 10 etiquette pointers for pets and owners at the vet.
  • Mature Movie Buffs: AARP Announces 2011 Movies for Grownups Award Winners
    The AARP listed its 10th annual Movies for Grownups awards this week. The awards honor cinematic achievements made by actors, directors, writers and producers over age 40. The AARP named Movies for Grownups award winners in 15 categories. Here they are.
  • AARP Honors Sundance Film Festival's Robert Redford with Lifetime Award and Mag Cover
    Robert Redford is just getting revved up, if his upcoming honors and AARP magazine cover are a sign. The Sundance Film Festival founder is receiving an AARP Lifetime Achievement Award. Plus, AARP's magazine sports Robert Redford on its March/April cover.
  • Wisconsin Teen Charged with Trying to Poison Her Pregnant Stepmother
    Chyanne Otto, a 14-year-old from Wisconsin, has been charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide. The teen is accused of trying to poison her pregnant stepmother, Dawn Otto. Chyanne Otto allegedly poured chemicals into her stepmom's PowerAid.
  • Ryan Seacrest May Step in for Regis Philbin with Kelly Ripa
    Regis Philbin replacement rumors are racing, with Ryan Seacrest in the lead. Ryan Seacrest's contract with "American Idol" will be up for renegotiation this year. Who else is rumored to replace Regis Philbin on "Live with Regis and Kelly"?
  • Obama to Attend Super Bowl XLV, If Bears Make It
    Barack Obama, 44th U.S. President, may be the first U.S. President to attend the NFL Super Bowl. Obama offhandedly promised to go to Super Bowl XLV, if the Chicago Bears make the game. The President's public schedule is clear for Super Bowl weekend.
  • Blue Tit Birds Slow Biological Clock by Choosing Best Mates
    Blue tits have been known to be unfaithful, and now scientists may understand why. Researchers discovered a link between the female's fertility and her choice of a mate. Maybe it's time to put the "men" in "menopause" '" at least for blue tit birds.
  • Reigning American Idol Lee DeWyze May Sing National Anthem for Bears & Packers in NFC Championships
    Will Lee DeWyze belt out "The Star-Spangled Banner" for the NFC title game January 24th? When the Chicago Bears host the Green Bay Packers, will Chicago's American Idol do the honors? Lee DeWyze Tweeted he will sing the national anthem for the big game.
  • 10 Questions to Ask Before Donating a Horse for Hippotherapy
    Horse donation provides a second career for an equine that may be past prime for competition. Trustworthy mounts become valued therapy companions in hippotherapy facilities. Before you donate a horse, however, you will want to ask these questions.
  • Knoxville Zoo's Trainer-killing Elephant Forgiven
    A 33-year-old animal trainer was crushed by an African elephant at the Knoxville Zoo. Stephanie James became trapped behind the 8,000-pound female elephant in a stall in the animal enclosure. The animal trainer's death has been called a tragic accident.
  • Boston Cat Hopes to Meow Out of Jury Duty March 23rd
    Sal Esposito of East Boston, Massachusetts, received a jury summons in the mail, but he refuses to serve. Here's the catch: Sal Esposito is a cat, and the Suffolk Superior Court will not let him off the hook. How was a cat called for jury duty in Boston?
  • American Idol Kicks Off Season 10th with January 19th-20th Premiere
    The 10th season of "American Idol" will open with a two-night season premiere January 19th and 20th. The reality TV series/ singing competition will present a pair of two-hour season openers. These two nights feature tryouts in New Jersey and New Orleans.
  • Golden Globe Awards: Social Network & Glee Top Winners List
    Live from Los Angeles, the 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards were presented, January 16, 2011. British comedian Ricky Gervais emceed the Golden Globes again. Here is the full list of this year's Golden Globe Award winners for both TV and movies.
  • Green Bay Woman Unpacks Vacuum to Find $280K in Cocaine and Crystal Meth
    Snow wasn't the only white powder falling in Green Bay during the Christmas season. A Green Bay woman opened a new vacuum and found illegal drugs inside the box. Local police estimated the total street value of the stash at approximately $280,000.
  • Delaware's Kayla Martell Aims to Be First Bald Miss America
    When Miss America 2011 is crowned January 15th, could the lovely lady be bald? If Kayla Martell, Miss Delaware, wins the coveted title, she will be the first Miss America to sport a shiny scalp. Kayla Martell boldly strides onto the Miss America stage.
  • Debunking 2011's Top 10 Celebrity Death Rumors To-date
    Rumors of celebrity deaths have run rampant during the early days of 2011, as they are wont to do. Here are the top celebrity death rumors (so far) of 2011. These headliners are alive and active, despite rumors claiming otherwise.
  • Martha Stewart Injured by Her Own French Bulldog
    Martha Stewart is known as a domestic diva, creative crafter and even publishing mogul. Now Martha Stewart has become a first-hand expert on medical sutures. A hurried head butt from her French Bulldog sent Martha Stewart into emergency plastic surgery.
  • Justin Bieber Rushed to Hospital from CSI Set
    Justin Bieber can make preteens breathless with a shake of his head. However, the pop star had trouble breathing on January 12th, filming a "CSI" TV episode. Justin Bieber was rushed to a hospital and treated for a severe allergic reaction.
  • 10 Tips for Clearing Clutter at Home
    Clutter can be stressful, even for packrats, as random items pile up all over the home. How can clutter and confusion become organization and efficiency? Follow these 10 tips for clearing clutter, aiming for simplicity without sacrificing treasured items.
  • Movie Review of Country Strong
    Country Strong opened in early January in cinemas coast to coast to mixed reviews. The Country Strong cast includes Gwyneth Paltrow, Tim McGraw, Garrett Hedlund & Leighton Meester. Can a strong country soundtrack carry a cliched story-line?
  • American Idol's Ryan Seacrest Preps for Proposal to Julianne Hough
    Ryan Seacrest is seriously smitten with Julianne Hough. The "American Idol" emcee may even be ready to propose marriage. Apparently, Ryan Seacrest already bought an engagement ring for Julianne Hough, and it is a doozy.
  • Ann Taylor Chooses Katie Holmes, While Anne Hathaway and Cable TV Turn Away
    Life is filled with ups and downs, especially for actress Katie Holmes. Soon after "The Kennedys," her expected cable series, was dumped, Katie Holmes is smiling again. This time, she's beaming from Ann Taylor fashion ads, while sneering at Anne Hathaway.
  • Tyler Perry Tops 42nd NAACP Image Awards Nominees List with 19 Nods
    Tyler Perry tops the list of NAACP Image Awards nominees this year with 19 nods. The annual NAACP Image Awards honor television, recording, literature, motion picture and writing/directing. Here is the full list of this year's NAACP Image Awards nominees.
  • Colon Cancer Claims Actor David Nelson at 74
    David Nelson, of "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet," died January 11th with colon cancer. David Nelson was 74 when he died, one of more than 50,000 annual deaths from colorectal cancer. Who was David Nelson? What celebrities have had colon cancer?
  • Farmers Insurance Rates Most Secure U.S. Cities
    American families seek security, like families everywhere. What are the safest cities nationwide? Farmers Insurance Group ranked U.S. cities for safety and security. Here are the top results, the most secure U.S. cities in three size categories.
  • Gas Explosion Obliterates Kenosha House, Damages Many Homes
    An explosion rocked Kenosha, Wisconsin January 10th, leveling a home and shattering windows for nearly a mile. The boom was heard from five miles away. Firefighters blamed a natural gas leak, dispelling initial rumors of an erupting meth lab.
  • Celebrity Apprentice 2011 - Sneak Peek at Donald Trump's Contestant Lineup
    Donald Trump is trying to stay mum about his roster of players for the 2011 "Celebrity Apprentice." However, the possible Presidential hopeful is filming all over New York City. Here's the rumored list of players for this year's "Celebrity Apprentice."
  • Australian Couple Aborts Twin Boys to Seek IVF for a Female Fetus
    An Australian couple apparently aborted twin boys because they wanted a baby girl. The couple already has three boys, conceived in the traditional way. The twin boys were conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF), but aborted to make womb for another try.
  • US Politicians Urge Americans to Pray for Congresswoman Giffords, as Shooter is Named
    U.S. politicians respond to the shooting of U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and others, even as the Arizona legislator fights for life in a Tucson hospital. The alleged gunman has been named as a 22-year-old Arizona man.
  • US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords Shot in Head January 8th
    Arizona legislator presumed dead, awaiting confirmation. Gabrielle Giffords, U.S. Congresswoman (D-AZ), was shot in the head at close range during a multiple fatal shooting in Tucson January 8th. At least five others were injured - perhaps a dozen.
  • Jesse Jackson, Jr., Issues Call for Resumes from Americans
    U.S. Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., is asking jobless Americans to send him their resumes. But the Illinois legislator is not hiring. He says he wants to put a more human dimension on the current unemployment situation in the U.S.
  • Wisconsin Requires Home Carbon Monoxide Alarms by February 1st
    Effective February 1, 2010, Wisconsin homes must include carbon monoxide alarms. This new safety law covers single-family homes and duplexes. Similar legislation already exists for multi-family dwellings.
  • Madison Scientists Crack Mystery of Mass Southern Blackbird Deaths
    Dead blackbirds fell from the Southern sky in droves December 31st. Why did thousands of birds instantly perish and fall in a mass avian nightmare of mortality on New Year's Eve? Madison scientists came up with a blunt answer to the massive bird deaths.
  • Loose Snake Halts Boston Subway at Noon
    An escaped snake stopped a Boston subway train for at least half an hour January 6th. A passenger's pet reptile slipped away on board. Subway officials cleared the train, but never found the snake. This is not the first missing snake on the Boston subway.
  • Blake Shelton Headlines World Ag Expo Concert Series in February 2011
    Country music star Blake Shelton will lead a benefit concert series during the 2011 World Ag Expo in February. The two-day concert series will raise funds for agricultural organizations. Here is the full lineup for the 2011 World Ag Expo Concert Series.
  • Alan Jackson Gives Zac Brown 1966 Cadillac El Dorado
    Zac Brown has a flashy set of wheels, thanks to country star Alan Jackson. Alan Jackson gave Zac Brown a 1966 Cadillac El Dorado convertible as a gift. Alan Jackson was pleased to have joined The Zac Brown Band on their hit, "As She's Walking Away."
  • Medical Marijuana User Montel Williams Fined for Pot Pipe at Airport
    TSA officials detained Montel Williams at Milwaukee Airport January 4th. Montel Williams was ticketed for possession of drug paraphernalia; a pot pipe was found among his belongings. Montel Williams explained that he uses marijuana for medicinal purposes.
  • Actress Anne Francis Dead at 80 of Pancreatic Cancer
    Hollywood actress Anne Francis passed away on January 2nd from pancreatic cancer. Anne Francis was 80 years old when she died in Santa Barbara, California, with family and friends present. Who was film and TV actress Anne Francis?
  • FETCH - Five Ways to Tell If Your Dog is Overweight
    Does your dog need to go on a diet? Is your canine companion too chubby? Do you seem to have a lot more dog to love than you ever had before? Here is a handful of ways you can determine whether your dog might stand to drop a few pounds.
  • Oprah Winfrey Tops Forbes' 2010 List of Hollywood's Top 20 Earners
    Who are the biggest earners in Hollywood these days? Forbes magazine compiled a list of the top 2010 moneymakers in Tinseltown. The roster of rich celebrities includes TV personalities, moviemakers, singers, comedians, actors and a professional athlete.
  • In Memoriam - 90 Celebrities Lost in 2010
    Although a new year brings hope or the future, the changing calendar reminds us of those we lost in the past year. Here's a look at 90 celebrities the world lost in 2010. These memorable folks made their marks in a variety of fields.
  • 2011 USPS Stamps Boast Cartoons, Crooners, Canines, Cars and More
    The United States Postal Service unveiled new commemorative stamps for 2011. The stamp collections include astronauts, authors, cartoons, heroes and more. Here's a guide to the new 2011 stamps, a peek at the postage we can expect in the coming year.
  • IT Specialist Faces Felony Charges After Hacking into Wife's Emails
    Is it illegal for spouses to read each other's emails without asking? Leon Walker, an information technology specialist, is looking at possible jail time after looking at his wife's emails. Clara Walker, the wife in question, is now Leon Walker's ex-wife.
  • Food Network Host Paula Deen is 2011 Rose Parade Grand Marshal
    Paula Deen, celebrity cook and TV personality, will be Grand Marshal for the 2011 Rose Parade on New Year's Day. As Grand Marshall, Paula Deen will headline the 122nd Rose Parade. In addition, Paula Deen will toss the coin to begin the 97th Rose Bowl.
  • NY Judge OK's Auction of Last Copy of Schindler's List
    A NY judge approved the sale of the last privately held copy of Oskar Schindler's famous list. "Schindler's List" was the subject of Steven Spielberg's award-winning 1993 movie. The 13-page document, dated April 18, 1945, may fetch $2 million at auction.
  • Madea's Tyler Perry Vows to Reconstruct Georgia Senior's Lost Home
    An 88-year-old Georgian, who lost her home in a fire, will have a brand-new house, thanks to Tyler Perry. Tyler Perry, who lost his own mother a year ago, learned of the uninsured senior's plight. So Tyler Perry stepped in to offer holiday goodwill.
  • Los Lobos to Appear with Conan O'Brien & Eric Clapton
    Los Lobos is on a roll. The Mexican-American rock band has been nominated for two more Grammy Awards. Los Lobos is scheduled to appear on "Conan" on December 21st. And they have signed a deal to join rock megastar Eric Clapton on tour in 2011. Ay caramba.
  • 7 Tips for Donating a Car to Charity for a US Tax Deduction
    Are you considering purchasing a new car or truck? Why not donate your used vehicle to a charity? What are the secrets to successful car donation? Follow these seven steps, if you plan to donate a used vehicle for tax benefits.
  • NEIGH - Five Ways to Support One Whose Horse Has Died
    Losing an equine companion can be as grief-worthy as the passing of a human family member or a close friend. What can caring folks do or say to support someone who has just lost a horse? Here are five ways to reach out to a grieving horse lover.
  • Simon Cowell May Be Tapped for Knighthood
    Simon Cowell, former "American Idol" sire of sarcasm, is short-listed for knighthood. The Queen's 2011 New Year's Honours List is likely to be revealed from on New Year's Eve. Why would Simon Cowell be chosen for British knighthood?
  • Wisconsin DNR Urging Gray Wolf Off Federal Endangered Species List
    The once-endangered gray wolf is proliferating again, especially in the Upper Midwest. The U.S. government is creeping towards reclassifying the gray wolf, based on requests from three Midwest states. What will delisting mean from a wildlife standpoint?
  • 7 Questions to Consider Before Picking a Pet as a Holiday Gift
    Is it a good idea to give a live animal as a holiday gift? How can the gift giver discern whether a pet will make a suitable present, especially for a child? Ask yourself these seven practical questions before presenting a real-live pet as a holiday gift.
  • Thieves Steal $15K in Playthings from Toys for Tots Bin
    Christmas crooks struck in Massachusetts, one week before Christmas. Thieves stole 1,500 donated toys from a Toys for Tots storage unit. The theft apparently occurred early Saturday morning, December 18th.
  • Top 20 Documents to Shred for Financial Security
    Identity theft is on the rise. How many consumers play right into thieves' hands by failing to destroy key papers? Here's the top list of 20 shredding musts for privacy and prudent protections, plus 15 documents to keep securely stored.
  • Jordan & Russia Team Up to Search Dead Sea for Sodom & Gomorrah
    The infamous ancient cities of Sodom and Gomorrah may yet be found. Russia and Jordan signed a contract to search the Dead Sea for evidence of the two lost cities. The underwater hunt for Sodom and Gomorrah starts in December 2010.
  • Chicago's Ice-floating Coyote Recovering at Wildlife Shelter
    The Chicago Fire Department rescued a coyote, found floating on a block of ice in Lake Michigan. A Chicago fire boat and a helicopter teamed up to rescue the female coyote. The rescued coyote is recovering at a Northern Illinois animal rescue center.
  • Obama Family Heads for Hawaii December 18th Without Barack
    Barack Obama is batching it, as First Lady Michelle Obama and his family are en route to Hawaii. The First Family boarded a military plane for the holiday vacation jaunt. Obama remained in the Capitol to deal with Congress on several pressing issues.
  • US Postal Service Tags December 20th as Busiest Day of 2010
    The United States Postal Service issued an alert to holiday package senders. December 20th is expected to be the most hectic mailing day of the year. Can procrastinators still hope for holiday mailings to arrive by Christmas?
  • Milwaukee's Nude Mailman Delivers the Naked Truth
    Milwaukee's Mailman Dave did more than go a little postal on his recent route. The suburban carrier delivered a little more than necessary, entering an office naked. The exhibitionist mailman was stamped as a lewd behavior offender by Milwaukee police.
  • How to Make a Super-Simple Graham Cracker Gingerbread House
    Gingerbread houses make super centerpieces and displays during the Christmas season. Gingerbread houses are complex to create, but a simpler option may be made with graham crackers. Here's how to make your own easy graham cracker gingerbread house.
  • Holiday Movie Memories: 'Planes, Trains, and Automobiles' and Ho-Ho-Ho
    Remember "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" from 1987? I surely do. I saw this film on Chicago's North Side with Santa himself. It was horrific and humorous at the same time. How did this horrendous, but hilarious, holiday memory happen?
  • Sympathy Cards: 5 Do's and 5 Don'ts for Condolence Notes
    Death leaves even the most eloquent people at a loss for words, especially on paper. What should we say, or not say, in sympathy cards and notes? Here are five do's and five don'ts for writing condolence cards.
  • 20 Sincere Sympathy Card Statements to Comfort Those Who Mourn
    What can you write in a sympathy card? Sometimes the simplest words are the most difficult to find. Here are 20 tender and true phrasings for sympathy card notes. Some include statements of faith, while others are simply comments of personal compassion.
  • Talking About Tonsilitis: A "Glee" Halter
    "Glee" cast members are suffering from tonsillitis. Filming of the show's Super Bowl episode was postponed. "Glee" production will resume December 13th, if the young thespians recover fast. What is tonsillitis? What are the symptoms and treatment?
  • Falling Camel Steals the Show in Florida Church Christmas Pageant
    Christmas pageant rehearsals can be unpredictable. Sometimes the cast must take their lumps. Just ask First Baptist Church of West Palm Beach. A tumbling camel stole the show December 10th. No one was hurt, but animal rights activists are spitting mad.
  • 5 Ways Handicapable Individuals Can Simplify Holiday Shopping
    Holiday shopping can be challenging, particularly for those with physical disabilities. How can handicapable individuals shop for holiday gifts without wearing themselves out? Here are five ways to simplify holiday shopping for handicapables and anyone.
  • Alaska's Sarah Palin Joins Evangelical Leader Franklin Graham December 11th for Haiti Mission Trip
    Sarah Palin, ex-Alaskan Governor and host of Sarah Palin's Alaska, is headed to Haiti this weekend. Franklin Graham & Samaritan's Purse invited Sarah Palin on a mercy mission. Comics and harsher critics are questioning Sarah Palin's motives for the trip.
  • TNT Closing the Book on "The Closer" in 2001
    TNT's "The Closer" crime drama series will end in 2011. The call for closing "The Closer" apparently came from the series star, Emmy Award winner Kyra Sedgwick. TNT executives credited Kyra Sedgwick for much of the success of "The Closer.'
  • Taiwanese Puzzler Reconstructs US$6,600 in Shredded Cash
    Can smidgens become simoleons again, once a shredder turns greenbacks to grains? When dollars are divided, making ribbons of riches, can the tide be turned back? In Taiwan, shredded dollars may be restitched, from particles to paybacks. Just ask Mr. Lin.
  • Aretha Franklin Battling Back After Pancreatic Cancer Surgery
    Aretha Franklin is fighting one of the most dangerous diseases of all. After major surgery for pancreatic cancer, the singer is keeping her spirits up by walking the halls of the Detroit hospital. Fans everywhere are praying for the Queen of Soul.
  • McNeil Consumer Healthcare Issues Rolaids Recall December 9th
    The makers of Rolaids® issued a recall of several varieties of the digestive relief product. McNeil Consumer Healthcare received reports that consumers found metal and wood particles in Rolaids®. Which Rolaids® products are affected by the product recall?
  • Walgreens Flu Shot Gift Card is an Extra Sharp Holiday Tip
    Holiday shoppers may present loved ones with a new holiday gift card this year, offering free flu shots. Mega-pharmacist Walgreens is offering flu shot gift cards in stores and online. How odd might it seem to give a loved one the needle for Christmas?
  • Snuggie for Dogs: Last Year's Hot Holiday Gift Goes Canine
    Is the Snuggie for Dogs canine kitsch or a great gift? Or is pet pampering barking up the wrong tree with Snuggie for Dogs? Here's a look at the Snuggie for Dogs, offered as a hot holiday gift for this year.
  • 12 Christmas Tree Safety Tips for Cat Owners
    Christmas trees delight people and pets, with lights, ornaments and garlands. How can pet owners keep cats from climbing their Christmas trees? Here are 12 tips for keeping cats and Christmas trees from becoming a curious nuisance '" or worse.
  • Beyonce's $2 Million Car for Hubby Jay-Z Could Have Jump-started a World of Good
    The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Beyonce gave Jay-Z as a birthday gift can do 220 miles an hour. But the $2 million Beyonce spent could have made a bigger splash. What could Beyonce have done with $2 million instead?
  • U.S. Surgeon General Says 1st and 2nd-hand Tobacco Smoke Causes Immediate Damage
    1st- and 2nd-hand tobacco smoke causes immediate harm, according to a December 9th U.S. Surgeon General report. This is the 30th Surgeon General report to warn about the health dangers of tobacco. The Obama Administration is pushing smoking cessation.
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