Prepare your Apartment for Winter

Prepare your Apartment for Winter

When winter weather hits and temperatures start to drop outside, your apartment will get chilly, as well. Use these tips to help prepare your apartment for winter, and protect yourself from the cold.

Reverse ceiling fans
Running your ceiling fan in reverse in your apartment can keep you more comfortable in winter weather. Since hot air rises, your ceiling fan can push that warmer air back down onto you. Just flip the switch on your ceiling fan. If it’s in reverse, you’ll see the blades going counterclockwise when you look up at it.

Help your heating system
An efficient heating system will cost you less. As you prepare for winter, you will want your HVAC system to run smoothly and efficiently. Apartment management should take care of scheduling appropriate, regular inspections of important equipment. (You might inquire with management when your unit’s system was last assessed.)

You can also help your heating system to work more efficiently by wrapping your hot water heater in a special blanket. Available at home improvement stores, hot water heater blankets run about $15 and insulate a heater to improve its efficiency — that’s a pretty big deal considering that nearly 14 percent of your energy costs go towards providing hot water.

Winterize the fireplace
Turning the thermostat down and cranking up a warm fire can save you big bucks on heating bills. Your apartment fireplace should be number one on the list of amenities to check as you prepare for winter.

When you first use the fireplace, pay close attention to ventilation. If you notice smoke in the air or a strong smell of smoke, you might inquire with your apartment community manager about the process for having your fireplace inspected.

If you do not plan to use your apartment fireplace, make sure the damper (a piece of metal that keeps out cold air) is securely closed.

Prep for zone heating
Think about where you spend the most time in your apartment, and purchase heaters to keep those areas comfortable. Zone heating gadgets might include an electric blanket, a space heater, or a towel warmer — any device that allows you to focus heat where you need it, instead of using extra energy to warm a larger space.

Close off infrequently used areas
Why should your laundry room have to be as toasty as your living room? Keep infrequently-used rooms and closets closed off during winter weather so that your heater can work more efficiently.

Insulate windows
Window insulation kits use shrink-wrap plastic sheeting to seal off drafts. This inexpensive investment could end up saving you money during a cold winter. Adding heavy drapery around your windows also cuts heating costs.

Have maintenance plug up gaps
Windows aren’t the only drafty places in your pad. Check for cracks and gaps on the outside of your apartment near windows and also inside your unit around outlets and doors. Check with maintenance staff to caulk any large leaks. You can also purchase door draft stoppers to help stop cold air from seeping in through cracks.

Set the thermostat
If you’ve got a programmable thermostat, prepare for winter by setting it to heat your home only during the hours you’re there. It’s much cheaper to turn the thermostat down during the day when you’re at work and back up when you get home, rather than keeping your apartment warm 24/7.

Turning the thermostat down just three degrees can save you money. That’s why utility companies recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees. Even if you don’t have a programmable thermostat, you can still save money by adjusting your thermostat manually each day.

Check smoke detectors
Check your smoke detectors when you prepare for winter. While you’re at it, make sure your fire extinguisher is in working order, as well. Heating for winter potentially increases indoor fire hazards, so checking these devices now is a good idea.

Winterize yourself
Instead of turning up your thermostat, make yourself more comfortable with warm clothing. When it’s cold outside, dress appropriately for the weather. And get the right indoor garb for winter weather, too: sweat pants, slippers, warm pajamas, and a blanket for the couch.

Before you make any major changes to your apartment, of course, check your lease and talk to your apartment property manager to ensure you are not breaking any apartment community regulations.

Remember that a few small, inexpensive changes can help you stay comfortable and potentially save you money this winter.

Post from Apartment Guide Newsletter
www.apartmentguide.com

Black Friday's Dirty Little Secrets

Black Friday bargain hunters beware. There's a good chance you won't score that doorbuster deal you've set your heart on.

Retail experts say the annual hype and hoopla that surrounds Black Friday also masks some nasty surprises.

The most painful: The crushed hopes of hundreds of midnight shoppers, who camped outside for hours in the cold hoping to score a 40-inch LCD HDTV for under $500, only to later learn that the store had four in stock.

That's one harsh — but all too common — example of a Black Friday reality that shoppers need to know about before they map out their shopping warplan, said Edgar Dworsky, consumer advocate and editor of Consumer World.

But there are many more. Here's a sampling of Black Friday secrets that CNNMoney.com has flagged for deal hunters:

Limited supplies: Read the fine print on the Black Friday circulars.

Most doorbuster deals — especially those on big-ticket items like HDTVs and washer-dryer combos — are in very limited supplies, often only four to six units per store.

So unless you are among the first six on line before stores open on Black Friday for those deals, you're pretty much out of luck.

Retailers use these juicy deals to entice shoppers into their store, that's when the switcheroo happens. Even if you didn't score the bargain you wanted, sellers hope that since you are already there, you'll probably grab some other deals instead.

HDTV deals. Is it the standard model, or a 'derivative?' Some of the holiday electronics with those low sale prices are products with fewer features than a standard model in that product line.

The difference can be subtle and most consumers probably won't even notice, said Dworsky.

Dworsky points out a Samsung 40-inch LCD HDTV for under $500 that has appeared as a doorbuster deal on several retailers' Black Friday circular.

"That model doesn't appear on Samsung's web site. Maybe it was made just for Black Friday," he said. Another red flag, the deal on that TV just lists the deal price and not the regular price of the model.

The lesson for shoppers: Do your own research and check the specifications on those discounted HDTVs.

A Samsung spokesperson was not immediately available to comment for this story.

Avoid bad bling. Jewelry is always a sought-after deal on Black Friday. But experts say consumers should keep some tips in mind before buying their bling this year.

Because of surging gold commodity prices, jewelry manufacturers are paying much more for the precious metal than last year. So one way that jewelers are keeping their own costs, and retail prices down reasonable for consumers, is by selling more gold-plated or gold-filled jewelry.

Many advertised deals on gold jewelry will use phrased such as "gold-filled" or "gold-overlay." This is not the same as solid gold, said Kevin Adkins, a graduate gemologist.

"When you see those terms, know that you're buying silver with a plate of gold coating over it," said Adkins.

If the price is too good to be true on that diamond set, then it probably is. "I saw an online deal for a 1-carat diamond cocktail ring for $431.40. A 1-carat ring sells at least for $1,000," he said.

His advice: Ask about the four C's — cut, clarity, carat and color — before buying diamond jewelry and always check return and refund policies on Black Friday deals.

Which Black Friday deals are online? Many retailers will say that their Black Friday in-store deals are available online but they won't tell you which ones, said Dworsky.

"So do I run out and stand on line all night or gamble on the computer all night?" said Dworsky.

The other annoyance with retailers' Black Friday online deals, he said, is that many sellers don't tell you what time the web deals kick in. "Is it just before midnight, at midnight or at the same time that the stores open?" he said.

Don't assume a "price match" policy. Many retailers who typically follow a price-match policy during the year may drop it for the Black Friday shopping weekend.

Again, carefully read fine print on the Black Friday circulars to see which retailers will match the lowest prices on an identical product and which sellers explicitly say the policy will not be in effect.

by Parija Kavilanz
Tuesday, November 23, 2010

www.finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/111366/black-fridays-dirty-little-secrets

Best Way - Apartment Patio Decorating Ideas | eHow.co.uk

Flowers

An apartment patio often has a less-than-scenic view and can sometimes overlook a parking lot or a neighboring patio. Create some privacy and your own garden getaway by building a wall of flowers to alter your view.

Purchase plastic flower pots that have an old world charm. Lightweight and stylish, plastic pots are now fashionable and available in urn shapes, and weathered and distressed terra cotta designs, and offer an apartment dweller a lighter-weight container for her garden. Purchase some taller plants such as sunset hyssop, hollyhock and daisies. Place these taller plants along the corners and edges of your patio to shield an unattractive view. Then, pot up some additional plants that are shorter to place in front to create a faux garden view. Not only will potted plants create a nice view while on your patio, they also will attract butterflies and provide a visual barricade for lower-level or ground-level patios. Be sure to care for your investment by watering daily as weather dictates.

If you like, save room for a few vegetables and herb plants on your patio as well. Tomatoes, peppers and all herbs grow terrific in containers and will make your patio smell great as well.

Furniture

Even a small patio can be a nice outdoor living space, so decorate it as you would a spare room. Start with a small outdoor area rug to further define your space and make if comfortable for your bare feet even on the hottest of days. You can purchase nice grass or bamboo-styled outdoor area rugs at your local home design and remodeling store.

Once placed, top it off with a small bistro table and two chairs to create a relaxing nook for you to have your morning coffee or evening cocktail. If tanning is your thing, get a smaller, lower round table and a settee for your patio, as well as one additional chair for guests. A settee is a great place to take a nap or tan on a warm day. No matter what your price point, you can get attractive furnishings for your patio, so shop around and always shop off season for the best value.

Accessories

Accessories set the tone of your patio as they do in your home, so bring your personal style to your outdoor space. Zen like Buddha statues can create a relaxing atmosphere, while pink flamingos stuck in your planters will give you a retro sense of fun. Outdoor candles, a fountain, bird feeders or wind chimes all help create an ambiance for your outdoor space, so consider your patio and how much room you have for additional items.

Hang sundials or terra cotta masks on your brick wall easily by using specially hinged no-drill picture hangers available at your home improvement store. You also may choose to hang or place rusty vintage wrought-iron fence pieces around to add even more character to your patio.

10 Things To Do Under $10

A Night out at the Movies-









Catch a flick at AMC Theaters on 119th & Roe or at Olathe 30. You can see a matinee for just $5 Monday thru Thursday. Order your tickets online and make it a movie night. http://www.amcentertainment.com/Studio/?tab=2







Indoor Ice Skating-



Did you know Overland Park has an indoor Ice Skating Center? It is located at 135th and Quivira. Grab a friend and head to Pepsi Midwest. During open skating sessions it's only $7.50/person. Check out their website for open skating times at http://www.pepsiicemidwest.com/index.php



Bowling-

INCRED-A-BOWL is a one-of-a-kind, 65,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art entertainment center. It's definitely not your typical "bowling alley". Located at 151st each game is just $4.25 per person.



Tour The Boulevard Brewing Company-



The Boulevard Brewing Company has grown to become one of the largest specialty brewing companies in the Midwest. Get your friends and take a walking tour of the brewery and hear the history of the company. On any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday no reservation is required and best of all its FREE!

Check out http://www.blvdbeer.com/tours/ for more information and times.



Mini-Golf @ Power Play



Power Play's Cosmic Mini Golf is nine holes of Glow In The Dark fun. Do you have what it takes to putt under the glow of the black light? It's the perfect competitive atmosphere for all ages and abilities. All this fun for just $3.50 per person!





Enjoy a Happy Hour-


Houlihans has an amazing happy hour! With locations all over the metro one is sure to be jusst around the corner. Don't forget to sign up on their website for specials like a free dinner on your birthday and other great specials!



See an Exhibit-

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is internationally recognized for its outstanding collection of more than 33,500 objects. From ancient times to modern day, this encyclopedic museum is one of the best in the country, offering visitors the opportunity to explore civilization through the eyes of painters, sculptors, craftsmen, and many other artists.

The Nelson-Atkins is FREE to all visitors, everyday... come discover the best of Kansas City

Laser Tag

Strategy, planning, team building. Let us at INCRED-A-BOWL solve your team building issues. Laser Tag is the perfect event to strengthen employee morale, efficiency and communication. With games for up to 10 players, INCRED-A-BOWL is putting the “T” back in teamwork. Call today for solutions to your employee team building problems.

Laser tag is offered in 10 minute sessions. Each game is only $7.00 so get your friends together and have a great time!

Visit the Arboretum




For just $5.00, you can see "Music For The Birds" playing at 2:00pm each Sunday in February. Toy can also stroll through the arboretum for free! Order tickets online http://artsandrec-op.org/arboretum/visit_sub_2.html

Renting--not buying--the dream

Stina Fish regularly dines at upscale restaurants, dabbles in the stock market and has vacationed internationally twice in the past year--and she plans to tour China later this month.
With an MBA under her belt, the 33-year-old Loop resident clearly knows how to handle money, yet there is one traditional investment she refuses to make: Fish can't bring herself to buy a home.
"Since college, I've thought that Americans are generally obsessed with the idea of homeownership being some kind of superior lifestyle, but I think we get more for our money renting," said Fish, a manager of development in the public transportation industry.
Although the conventional wisdom for money management and responsible adulthood dictates buying a home, recent research shows fewer Americans are making the leap to ownership.
Economic troubles have played a major role in the nation's real estate slump, but there also is a sizable portion of renters who say they have no intention of purchasing a house, citing rental advantages such as mobility and monthly savings.
The number of households that are renting grew by 3.4 million from 2004-2009, a 10 percent increase, according to a 2010 report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.
Some of those renters are there to stay. More than a quarter of renters never plan to buy a home, according to a national survey conducted this summer for trulia.com, a real estate search engine. Of the renters who said they do plan to purchase someday, 68 percent said it would be more than two years before they do so.
Fish says she has the financial means to purchase a home, but she prefers the convenience of renting the loft apartment she shares with her husband.
The space includes many of the perks often associated with homeownership--in-unit laundry, a covered parking space, pet-friendly building rules and a view of the Chicago River. (Fish did not want to reveal what she pays for rent, but she said it is less than a mortgage for a comparable space.)
"We don't worry about special assessments. We don't worry about having to replace the dishwasher or the furnace," Fish said. "Even though I've been in the same apartment since 2003, there's still the idea that I'm free to pick up and move anywhere, at any time."
Recent economic reports suggest even more people may be moving toward renting.
Sales of existing homes in Chicago fell 25.1 percent year-over-year in July, according to data released by the Illinois Association of Realtors. And that beats the national drop of 27.1 percent to reach the lowest level since the National Association of Realtors started tracking sales of single-family homes and condos in 1999, the Tribune reported.
The dip was expected after the expiration of a government tax rebate program, said Bob Ghislandi, an associate broker with real estate company @properties.
"We're seeing a void, which makes sense," he said. "We all expected this. But anyone who buys right now is getting an incredible deal."
Among the Chicago first-time home buyers who never looked back is Travis Linz, a senior sales representative who bought a two-bedroom penthouse condo in March in Ukrainian Village. After sitting on the sidelines for a couple of years, Linz said he was glad to finally negotiate a great price for a great place.
"Interest rates were low and it seemed like we might be coming out of the recession, so I didn't want to miss the window," said Linz, 30. "I wanted something unique and I found it."
Renting had its pluses, Linz conceded, but he prefers the ownership lifestyle.
"When I rented, it was great to know I could pack everything I own in an SUV and skip town should I decide to," he said. "But I also have had a few awful landlords over the years, and I don't miss dealing with them."
Thiyag Chinnappan, a 35-year-old marketing analyst, said he considered buying a home about two years ago, but the uncertain job market strongly influenced his decision to rent. So far, he has no regrets.
"Owning a place adds the burden of immobility," said Chinnappan, who says renting the four-bedroom Roscoe Village house he shares with three others has given him the opportunity to beef up his savings and travel around the world. "[I can] save more liquid cash and make other investments instead of tying it down to a house."
Owning a home wouldn't make Chinnappan feel any more mature or grown up, he said.
"It's a very personal decision," he said "This just fits my lifestyle better."
--ERIN M. SARRIS IS A REDEYE SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR. --

Before you purchase

How do you know when it's time to evict the landlord from your life? Neil Moscicki, a vice president and financial adviser with Harris Investor Services in suburban Roselle, shared five things a renter should have (left) before considering homeownership. E.S.

Breaking down the trade-offs

If there's one truth about taking the plunge into homeownership, it's that there always are two sides to consider. Is owning better than renting? That's up to the individual, but here are some issues to consider. E.S.

Maintenance

Owners: Your water pipe burst at 2 a.m.? That's gonna cost some money, but you've got your pick of plumbers.
Renters: This is the landlord's problem, but scheduling the repair might not be his first priority of the day--or week.

Decor

Owners: Pimp your space any way you'd like.
Renters: Who wants to spend weekends at Home Depot?

Payments

Owners: Added costs--taxes, insurance and special assessments--are part of the American dream, but so is the tax write-off.
Renters: No surprises--a single monthly check with a consistent payment.

Longevity

Owners: As long as your mortgage payments are on time, no one can kick you out of your space.
Renters: Rent increases loom large every year, but many landlords will give price breaks for signing a longer lease.

By Erin M. Sarris

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/redeye/2010/09/renting--not-buying--the-dream.html
FOR REDEYE

10 Fun Places to Visit in the Metro!

1. Hallmark Visitors Center- 2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64108. 816-274-3613

There's so much to see at the Hallmark Visitors Center! Our permanent exhibits give you a glimpse into Hallmark's creative world. Be transported to a magical place where every day is a holiday, and there is always a reason to celebrate. When you visit the Hallmark Visitors Center, you enter the world of creativity and celebration of life. Don't be surprised if you laugh out loud, exclaim in amazement, or even shed a tear! At Hallmark, emotions are our business.

2. Liberty Memorial/ National WWI Museum- 100 W. 26th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 816.784.1918

The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial provides an extraordinary experience. The state-of-the-art Museum gives you the chance to explore and discover the nation’s most extensive assembly of artifacts, photography, art and narratives of the Great War ever presented in a single collection. The Museum introduces the war in unprecedented ways – through visual and audio sensory stimulation to mold an unforgettable experience in the minds of all visitors – young and old.

3. Boulevard Brewery- 2501 Southwest Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 474-7095

Founded in 1989, Boulevard Brewing Company has grown to become the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest. Our mission is simple: to produce fresh, flavorful beers using the finest traditional ingredients and the best of both old and new brewing techniques.

4. KC Zoo- 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, Missouri 64132 (816) 513-5700

The Kansas City Zoo helps keep the fun going into the fall with a full line-up of fun, interactive events and activities. Visit the Zoo today and enjoy our daily Animal Encounters, which continue through October.

5. Nelson-Atkins Art Museum- 4525 Oak Street Kansas City, MO 64111 816.751.1ART

At The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art there is always something new to discover. Our growing collection has fascinated, illuminated and exhilarated people since 1933. Come spend time with your favorites, see what’s new on view or check out a featured exhibition.
Always invigorating, Museum programs, classes and tours bring you closer to the collection and offer inventive ways to explore on your own, with friends or family.

6. Power and Light- Located at 14th & Main St Downtown Kansas City, MO

Offering over a half million square feet, The Kansas City Power & Light District is the mid-west’s premier entertainment epicenter. With more than 45 unique and captivating retail outlets, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, the District offers something for everyone. Located in the heart of downtown, this vibrant, new eight-block neighborhood links the Convention Center to the Sprint Arena and is bringing the beat back to Kansas City.

7. Union Station- 30 W Pershing Rd Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 460-2020

The Station is once again a popular destination for the surrounding community just stopping by for lunch or to mail a letter from the post office in the west end of the Grand Hall. The station also draws tourists from all over the world who marvel at the Grand Hall's 95-foot ceiling, three 3,500-pound chandeliers and the six-foot wide clock hanging in the Station's central arch.
Today's Union Station is filled with fine restaurants and unique shops. And just like in 1914, you can catch the train at Union Station's Amtrak stop.

8. Country Club Plaza- Located at 47th & Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64112 (816)753-0100
The Plaza's popularity and reputation has been recognized around the country. The entire 15-block district, with more than 150 shops and dozens of fine restaurants, makes The Country Club Plaza Kansas City's premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

9. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens 8909 W 179th St Bucyrus, KS 66013 (913) 685-3604
The Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens was founded to keep the city at the forefront of environmental and ecological issues. A leader of environmentally sound community development, the Arboretum is an educational, recreational and cultural resource for the Kansas City region.

10. Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead 13800 Switzer Rd Overland Park, KS 66221 (913) 897-2360
With the Kansas Family Farm slowly disappearing, the Children's Farmstead was established in 1976, and was re-named in 1985 in honor of the first Overland Park Police Officer killed in the line of duty as the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead. Deanna Rose’s Legacy is to preserve the Farm Legacy so children in the city can learn facts of life from the charm of the farm. Children treasure such memories as gathering eggs, the sweet smell of hay, and learning first hand where milk comes from.

Thinking About Planning A Trip?

Whether you are looking for a weekend get-a-way, planning a vacation, or even a business trip. Kansas City International offers many non-stop flight options!

Did you know you can fly non-stop to 48 cities throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico from the Kansas City International (MCI) airport. Below is a complete list of all of the cities you can fly to.

Here’s a list of non-stop flights from the Kansas City Airport.

Albuquerque

Atlanta

Baltimore

Boston

Cancun, Mexico

Charlotte
Chicago-Midway

Chicago-O'Hare

Cincinnati

Cleveland

Columbus

Dallas-Ft. Worth
Dallas-Love

Denver

Detroit

Dodge City

Ft. Lauderdale

Ft. Leonard Wood

Harrison (Branson)

Houston-Intercontinental

Indianapolis

Joplin

Las Vegas

Los Angeles

Memphis

Milwaukee

Minneapolis-St. Paul

Nashville

New Orleans

New York-JFK

New York-LaGuardia

Newark

Oakland

Oklahoma City

Orlando

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

Salina

Salt Lake City

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

St. Louis

Tampa

Toronto

Washington-Dulles

Washington-Reagan

Check out these non-stop flight destinations!

Need some inspiration? Here are a some highlights from

a few of the non-stop destinations!

Seattle

While visiting Seattle there are many exciting and fun places to visit. Pioneer Square, Pike Place Market, Myrtle Edwards Park, Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Aquarium , Seattle Public Library, Seattle Waterfall Garden…Just to name a few. Check out the history of it’s Pioneer Square District. Settled in 1852 and burned to the ground in 1889, Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square District features 88 acres of beautifully restored architectural masterpieces, including buildings designed in the Second Renaissance-Revival, Beaux-Arts Classical, and Richardsonian-Romanesque styles... one of the largest collections of unique architecture in the United States. Make your splash at the Seattle Aquarium. Listen to the calls of our region’s orca whales. Stand within a circle of glowing jellyfish. Run your fingers along a sea anemone’s soft tentacles. Delight in the antics of the sea otters. Then come back for another visit — and an entirely different experience. At the Seattle Aquarium there’s always something fun to discover, and inspiration on how to help protect our marine environment. No matter where you visit in the “Queen City” the smell of coffee is sure to be in the air from Starbucks or Seattle's Best.

Philadelphia

This city plays home to an astounding collection of museums, artistic venues and historical attractions. There’s the Liberty Bell, of course — plus amazing art installations, jazz venues, architectural landmarks and much more.
Stroll through Longwood Gardens. When you’re at Longwood Gardens, it’s easy to imagine that you’re at a giant, royal garden in Europe. Stroll along the many paths through acres of exquisitely maintained grounds featuring 11,000 different types of plants. See one of the “First Churches” Today, Philadelphia’s more than 800 houses of worship include the most “first churches” (within their denominations) in the country, and represent many different faiths, architectural styles and communities.

New Orleans

Put The New Orleans Museum of Art on your list! Louisiana’s culture often seems to have sprung from its fertile soil. Out of the rich Louisiana sugar fields, New Orleans received a gift of lasting culture in early 1910, when sugar broker Isaac Delgado offered the city $150,000 to build a “temple of art for rich and poor alike” in City Park. The neo-classical, Beaux Arts-style Isaac Delgado Museum of Art opened in December 1911, but sadly, Delgado was too ill to attend. He died weeks later, and left yet another generous gift, an art collection gathered by his late aunt. Delgado’s 25,000-square-foot “temple” is still at the center of the now much larger New Orleans Museum of Art. See on of many of the New Orleans Area Plantations. They were once the mainstays of a regional agrarian economy, as well as the bastions of a genteel culture. Now they are major tourist attractions offering windows into a bygone past. They are the plantations, and in southern Louisiana there are a good number of them within easy driving distance of New Orleans.

Save On Your Airline Tickets!

If you are looking to find the best travel rates, be sure to check out www.kayak.com. This site continueously checks most airlines and allows you to compare pricing all at once.

You can also download the "App" free on many Smartphones! This is a great way you can check daily to ensure you get the best deal!

How to Plan the Perfect Party | From eHow.com

How to Plan the Perfect Party

Hurray, it's time to party and you are responsible for making the celebration both festive, as well as memorable. But, before you panic or let your imagination carry you to far away, lets review a few quick pointers that are guaranteed to make any party a success.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

___________________________________________________________

Things You'll Need:

Budget
Location
Date and Time

Step 1

Creating a budget is the most important step in planning a party. Throwing a fantastic party does not have to break your piggy bank. In fact, by creating a realistic budget ahead of time, you can set realistic goals that help you save money every step of the way.

Step 2

Identify the purpose for the party. Knowing the purpose for the party will help you to better plan important details such as: date and time, location, theme, menu, decor, guest list, games, entertainment, etc.

Step 3

Make sure that the party reflects the person, or organization for which it is being given. If you find yourself at a lose, create a questionnaire to obtain pertinent information.

Step 4

Themes and dress restrictions should be decided upon in advance. Provide your guest with enough time to prepare for the party. Trust me, people are happier when they are informed and are given time to prepare.

Step 5

Location truly is everything. Choosing the perfect location for the party should not be overlooked. Pick a location that incorporates the theme of the party, inspires the intended guest, and fits nicely into your budget. Remember to be realistic.

Step 6

Consider the needs of your guest. Parties are more fun when everyone's needs are met. Take into consideration guest who may have special needs or require special accommodations.

Step 7

When possible visit the location or facility prior to the party date. It is very important to be familiar with your location. Make a list of what the location provides (tables, chairs, etc)and what you will need to provide (food, decorations, music, etc). This helps you plan ahead and stay within budge.


Step 8

The average person has a pretty hectic schedule. Allot enough time for guest to put your party date on their social calendar. Last minute invitations only work in certain instances.


Step 9

There are many types of invitations to chose from. Use invitations to peek the interest of guest and reflect the party theme. Take into account both your audience and your budget. If you are on a strict budget, you might want to consider using the internet to send free evites to guest.

Step 10

Provide guest with accurate contact information and directions. Make sure guest know how to find the party location. Some invitations do include directions but, many do not. Take the extra step to insure that guest arrive at the right location.

Step 11

Plan a menu that will dazzle guest. Think outside the box and serve food that incorporates the party theme. Also think about creating a menu that reflects dietary needs.

Step 12

Start party festivities promptly.

Step 13

Identify people who can help you make your party a success.

Step 14

Know your personal limitations and the limitations of those around you. Set realistic goals for yourself and others. It's no use crying once the party starts.

Step 15

Delegate some of the responsibilities for the party. I encourage you to delegate, delegate, delegate. Likewise, if you need to hire outside help to handle certain aspects of the party, I say hire away if it is in your budget. .

Step 16

Use all of your resources. Throwing a party does not have to be a one man or woman show. Network when possible. Learn from the successes and failures of others.

Step 17

Negotiate prices. A lot of people agree on the first price that is quoted to them but, I want you to use your negotiation skills whenever possible to drive down prices.

Step 18

Sponsors are the party planers best friend. Shouldering the entire cost for your party may not always be necessary. This is especially true, if you are planning a party for a nonprofit organization, business, or group. Many companies, local businesses, and organizations will donate items or give money in exchange for advertisement at the party.

Step 19

On the day of the party it is a great idea to have everyone arrive early. Give yourself enough time to setup and discuss any last minute changes.


Step 20

Designate a cleanup crew so you don't get stuck with a big mess at the end. Every party location and facility is different. Ask if you are responsible for cleaning up before hand. You will thank me for this step later.

Step 21

A little appreciation goes a long way. Acknowledge the efforts of those who helped you with the party. If appropriate you might consider showing your gratitude for those who aided in the following ways: public thank you, card, flowers, a gift that ties into the theme of the party.

Tips & Warnings

• Parties can require a lot of work but, with adequate planning you too can have a memorable event.


• Evites or other internet based invitations may not be an appropriate choice for everyone or every party.


• Purchase enough food so that you do not run out.

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13 small things to simplify your workday

“Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” ~Lao Tzu

One of the best things I did when I decided to simplify my life was to simplify my workday — first at my day job and later, by quitting my day job, in the work I do now as a writer and entrepreneur.

I’ve eliminated most of the routine, boring, administrative tasks with a few simple principles.

These days, I have eliminated the non-essentials, and can focus on what I truly love: creating.

Not everyone can make such drastic steps toward simplicity, but if you have some control over your workday, you can do a few small things that will simplify things greatly.

If you don’t have control, or if you find yourself thinking, “I can’t do these things”, I’d start to ask why not? Is it possible to change things, if not today then over the long term? I found that often I thought something wasn’t possible (working from home, for example), but in the long run they were.

You don’t need to do all of these things — pick just one, and try it. Then try another and see if it works. Experiment to find what works for you.

And enjoy the simple work life.

1. Start early. Going into work early was one of my favorite tricks — it was quiet, before the phones and chatter and meetings started, and I could get a lot of work done in peace. By the time everyone else was getting started, I’d gotten two or three big tasks checked off.
   
2. Limit your hours. It’s ironic, because so many people work long hours and think they’re getting more done and being more productive. But they’re throwing brute hours at the problem. Instead, cut back on your hours and set a limit — say 6 or 7 hours a day — and get your most essential work done within that limit. If you know you’re only working 6 hours today, you’ll be sure to get the important tasks done first and waste less time. Limits force you to be effective.
   
3. Make a short list. Make a long list of all the tasks you need to do … then make a short list of 1-3 things you really want to get done. Choose so that, if you got only these tasks done, you’d be proud of what you did today. Start with the most important task, before checking email or reading online.
   
4. Batch distractions. What are your common distractions? Perhaps things like email, reading blogs, Twitter or another social network? Set a time for these, preferably later in the day: say, from 3-4 p.m. Don’t do the distractions before then. By grouping them all into one time period, you allow yourself to do other work first, but still get in your distraction time. Another approach might be to do them for 10 minutes at the end of each hour — but stick to that 10-minute limit!
   
5. Write shorter emails. If email takes up a lot of your day, the simple change of limiting yourself to 3-4 sentences per email will make a big difference. First, it’ll drastically shorten the time it takes to write or respond to emails. And second, it’ll shorten responses to your emails, which means you’ll spend less time reading email.
   
6. Limit meetings. The fewer the better. Some top Google executives just do 5-minute meetings — anyone who attends these meetings had better be prepared, and concise. If you can get out of meetings and just get the notes, or find an alternative way to communicate, it could save you hours per week.
   
7. Automate. The fewer repetitive and routine tasks you have to do, the more time you’ll free up for creating and important work. So automate wherever possible: have people fill things out electronically, or get info from your website instead of emailing or calling you, or use a service that automatically processes payments or ships your product, and so on.
   
8. Eliminate paperwork. I used to deal with a lot of paperwork, and even then I knew it was a waste of my time. If businesses and organizations could have paperwork filled out electronically, it would save a lot of paper, copying, filing, and duplicate effort. Whenever possible, eliminate paperwork in favor of digital. This might be more of a long-term move.
   
9. Clear your desk. This can be done in a few minutes. Clear everything off the top of your desk. Only put back a few essential items. Everything else should be: filed, given to the appropriate person, given a permanent spot in a drawer, or trashed/recycled. Make quick decisions and then get back to work.
   
10. Get away. If you can get out of your office, you can find a peaceful spot where you can focus on important work. Find a spot where you can work, turn off the Internet and do your work, and then turn the Internet back on so you can email or upload it to the appropriate spot. Working from home is a good option here. The more you can do this (it might be once a week, or an hour a day, or half of every workday), the better.
    
11. Take breathing breaks. Every 15-20 minutes, get up from your desk, and take a breathing break. It could be simply walking around the office, saying hi to someone, or even better, getting outside to get some fresh air. Walk around, get your blood circulating, perhaps massage your neck and shoulders if you feel tension. Do some pushups if you want to get fitter. When you get back to work, remind yourself what you want to be working on, and clear away all distractions.
    
12. Practice a focus ritual. Every hour or two, do a refocus ritual. This only takes a minute or two. You might start it by closing down your browser and maybe other open applications, and maybe even take a walk for a couple of minutes to clear your head and get your blood circulating. Then return to your list of Most Important Tasks and figure out what you need to accomplish next. Before you check email again or go back online, work on that important task for as long as you can. Repeat this refocus ritual throughout the day, to bring yourself back. It’s also nice to take some nice deep breaths to focus yourself back on the present. More focus rituals.
    
13. Schedule big blocks of creative time. Not everyone can do this, but when possible, put a big block of 3-4 hours in your schedule for creating or doing other important work. Make this time inviolate, and don’t allow meetings or other things to be scheduled during this time. Be ruthless about clearing distractions and doing the work you love during these blocks, taking breathing breaks as necessary. Rejoice in your creativity.

If you liked this guide, please bookmark it on Delicious or share on Twitter. Thanks, my friends.

—
Read more about simplifying your work and your life in my book, The Power of Less.

Blog taken from http://zenhabits.net/2010/03/simplify-your-workday/

Fun and Exciting Upcoming Spring Events to Enjoy!

1.AC/DC @ Sprint Center

http://www.sprintcenter.com/default.asp?id=87&objId=590

AC/DC’s Black Ice World Tour, has been rescheduled to hit Sprint Center in Kansas City, MO on Sunday, April 11. Tickets are on sale now.

The Black Ice World Tour kicked off in October of 2008 and has crisscrossed North America and Europe twice. By early 2010 the tour will hit Australia, New Zealand and Japan. They will be returning to North America in April.

2.Earth Wind and Fire at Starlight
http://kcstarlight.com/concerts/earth_wind_and_fire.aspx

Earth, Wind & Fire is one of the most musically accomplished, critically acclaimed and commercially popular funk bands to emerge since the 1970s. Conceived by drummer, band leader, songwriter, kalimba player and occasional vocalist Maurice White, the band's all-encompassing musical vision used funk as its foundation, but also incorporated jazz, smooth soul, gospel, pop, rock & roll, psychedelia, blues, folk, African music and, later, disco. Lead singer Philip Bailey gave Earth, Wind & Fire an extra dimension with his talent for crooning sentimental ballads in addition to funk workouts. Behind Bailey, the band exhibits the ability to harmonize like a smooth Motown group, work a simmering groove or improvise like a jazz fusion outfit.
Don't miss Earth, Wind & Fire at Starlight Theatre on May 29, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: $86.00*, $66.00*, $56.00*, and $50.50*
*All tickets subject to applicable service and handling fees.

3.REO Speedwagon w/ Pat Benatar July 11 @ Startlight 7:00pm

http://www.kcstarlight.com/concerts/reo_speedwagon_/_pat_benatar.aspx

One of the undisputed arena-rock kings of the early 1980s, REO Speedwagon has built a devoted following of fans of all ages. The band penned numerous power-ballads that went on to become hits, including "Keep On Loving You," "Take It on the Run" and "Can't Fight This Feeling." With a career spanning four decades, REO Speedwagon is one of the true legends of rock.
Pat Benatar's polished mainstream pop/rock made her one of the most popular female vocalists of the early '80s. Her power chords, tough sexuality and powerful vocals led to several hit singles including "Heartbreaker," "I Need a Lover" and "Hit Me With Your Best Shot"
Don't miss REO Speedwagon with Pat Benatar at Starlight Theatre on July 11, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
Ticket prices: $75*, $49.50*, $35*
A limited number of Producer's Circle seats are available for $130*.
*Tickets subject to applicable service and handling fees

4. Brad Paisley @ Sprint Center
http://www.sprintcenter.com/default.asp?id=87&objid=672

Brad Paisley, current Academy of Country Music nominee for Entertainer of the Year, Top Male Vocalist, Album of the Year and Video of the Year is happy to announce his H2O 2010 World Tour coming to Sprint Center on Friday, May 28.

In following up the highly successful American Saturday Night Tour, the three time GRAMMY winner will be accompanied by special guests Darius Rucker and Justin Moore. The show will also feature Easton Corbin, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson on the Water World Plaza Stage.

Tickets for the May 28 concert at Sprint Center go on sale Saturday, March 20 at 10am through Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets or by Charge-By-Phone at 800.745.3000. In the event tickets remain, they will be available at 10am on Monday, March 22 at Sprint Center Box Office.

5. Have Dinner on "The Mystery Train" at Union Station

Murder on The Wrong Side of The Tracks- Playing April 16- June 5

1930 finds Kansas City a wide-open town, with all the ingredients for a good time--speakeasies, jazz clubs, gambling dens, and easy money. A man with a little ambition can go far. After all, prohibition is good for business, but taking care of business may mean murder!

Visit http://www.kcmysterytrain.com/season_of_shows

for more information.

6. "Cactus Flower" @ The New Theatre Restaurant

Now thru April 10th

Loretta Swit (from M*A*S*H) returns to New Theatre in this fast-paced comedy, a philandering bachelor dentist keeps his girlfriend at bay by telling her he's married. When the ruse threatens to catch up with him, he drafts his prickly nurse to pose as his "wife". This Academy-Award winning comedy has heart and soul with a sense of humor to match.

9229 Foster St, Overland Park, Kan

Check out http://www.newtheatre.com/

7. Dreamgirls Tthe Musical @ Starlight Theater

July 20-25 The show starts at 8:00pm

Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS tells the! story of an up-and-coming 1960s singing girl group and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. DREAMGIRLS features the unforgettable hits “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.” The show’s creative team has re-envisioned this Tony® and Academy Award®-winning musical so it sparkles like never before.

http://www.kcstarlight.com/broadway_shows/dreamgirls.aspx