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Bakery Rewards Entire Staff with Alaskan Cruise

Alaskan Holland Cruise liner

Alaskan Holland Cruise linerAs a reward for working so hard during the economic slump, owners of a popular Nashville restaurant are taking 48 employees on an Alaskan cruise.

At the end of a staff retreat last September, Puffy Muffin owners Lynda and Jack Stone unveiled the trip plans and told employees that if they met some aggressive sales goals for the next 10 months their deck chairs — as a group — were awaiting them on a Holland America cruise line bound for Alaska.

“We have the most wonderful people working here,” Lynda Stone said. “This was a way to really motivate everyone and to have a different attitude during the crunch.”

Expect to find the doors at each of their locations closed and locked until August 9.

(READ the story in the Tennessean)

Bakery Rewards Entire Staff with Alaskan Cruise

Alaskan Holland Cruise liner

Alaskan Holland Cruise linerAs a reward for working so hard during the economic slump, owners of a popular Nashville restaurant are taking 48 employees on an Alaskan cruise.

At the end of a staff retreat last September, Puffy Muffin owners Lynda and Jack Stone unveiled the trip plans and told employees that if they met some aggressive sales goals for the next 10 months their deck chairs — as a group — were awaiting them on a Holland America cruise line bound for Alaska.

“We have the most wonderful people working here,” Lynda Stone said. “This was a way to really motivate everyone and to have a different attitude during the crunch.”

Expect to find the doors at each of their locations closed and locked until August 9.

(READ the story in the Tennessean)

More People Getting DVDs From Library Than From Netflix

librar book depository

librar book depositoryA new study claims that more DVDs are borrowed from libraries each day than are rented via Netflix, Redbox or Blockbuster.

According to the survey released by the Online Computer Library Center, public libraries in the U.S. lend an average 2.1 million videos/day, which edges out the 2 million discs shipped by Netflix…

Another recent report says that libraries have doubled the size of their movie collections over the last decade — and library users have taken notice.

“Friday nights, the hour before we close, it’s like a video store… People are running to get their movies before the weekend.”

(READ the story in the Courant, via the Consumerist)

Photo courtesy of jppi, via Morguefile, CC license

Smashing Pumpkins Benefit Concert Raises 80K for Good Samaritan Musician

Matthew Leone, bass-player for medina lake

Matthew Leone, bass-player for medina lakeLast week, Chicago’s own Smashing Pumpkins played a benefit concert to raise money to pay the hospital bills for a local musician who was badly beaten after he stepped in to help a woman fighting off an attack by her husband. Matthew Leone was rushed to the hospital in June after incurring broken bones and head trauma when he heroically intervened in the domestic dispute near his home.

After several brain surgeries, the Good Samaritan bass player for Madina Lake is in stable condition but the medical bills for the uninsured musician are topping $250,000.

The concert and related auctions have raised around $80,000, after lead-singing Pumpkin, Billy Corgan, auctioned a signed guitar, band poster and an opportunity for fans to meet him, adding $16,000 to the tally.

Smashing Pumpkins Benefit Concert Raises 80K for Good Samaritan Musician

Matthew Leone, bass-player for medina lake

Matthew Leone, bass-player for medina lakeLast week, Chicago’s own Smashing Pumpkins played a benefit concert to raise money to pay the hospital bills for a local musician who was badly beaten after he stepped in to help a woman fighting off an attack by her husband. Matthew Leone was rushed to the hospital in June after incurring broken bones and head trauma when he heroically intervened in the domestic dispute near his home.

After several brain surgeries, the Good Samaritan bass player for Madina Lake is in stable condition but the medical bills for the uninsured musician are topping $250,000.

The concert and related auctions have raised around $80,000, after lead-singing Pumpkin, Billy Corgan, auctioned a signed guitar, band poster and an opportunity for fans to meet him, adding $16,000 to the tally.

Omega Fats: Some Make You Happy, Some Make You Sick… What to Avoid

fishoils

fish oilsHere’s a new dieting tip for producing happiness in the brain – eat more fat. It needs to be the right kind of fat, however.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fish, can enhance your mood and build your brain.

In countries where people eat very little seafood, people have a 50% higher risk for depression. Indeed, studies show these fats are at least as good for treating depression as anti-depression drugs. (More scientific studies also show that consuming fish while pregnant is more beneficial, than risky, for baby and mother, even given the amounts of mercury.)

But the other Omega fat, Omega-6, found in various oils, can negate the positive effects of Omega-3’s by actually depleting the amounts already in the body. Unfortunately, in today’s Americanized diet, Omega-6 ingredients have been on the rise for decades, particularly from “seed oils” that were unheard of 100 years ago.

Here’s a tip: If you don’t have enough money to buy more fish or fish oil supplements, you can increase your body’s Omega-3 intake for free, simply by switching the types of oils you use in cooking, baking, and condiments:

OUT: Omega-6 rich soybean oil, corn oil, safflower seed oil, mayonaise, and margerine
IN: Oils like olive oil and butter. Many grocers now provide generic brands of olive oils, which are less expensive.)

Learn how to build a firewall around your intake of healthy fats and preserve their benefits. You can listen to the show below, and check out the book authored by one of its guests: Maximize the Power of Omega-3s to Supercharge Your Health, Battle Inflammation, and Keep Your Mind Sharp.

Listen to the fact-filled program on NPR’s Kojo Show, and his three guests.

RELATED STORIES: — Omega-3 Fish Oil Better ADHD Treatment
— Schools, Prisons Take Positive Action With Diets
(see bottom for Scientific Studies)


Omega Fats: Some Make You Happy, Some Make You Sick… What to Avoid

fishoils

fish oilsHere’s a new dieting tip for producing happiness in the brain – eat more fat. It needs to be the right kind of fat, however.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fish, can enhance your mood and build your brain.

In countries where people eat very little seafood, people have a 50% higher risk for depression. Indeed, studies show these fats are at least as good for treating depression as anti-depression drugs. (More scientific studies also show that consuming fish while pregnant is more beneficial, than risky, for baby and mother, even given the amounts of mercury.)

But the other Omega fat, Omega-6, found in various oils, can negate the positive effects of Omega-3’s by actually depleting the amounts already in the body. Unfortunately, in today’s Americanized diet, Omega-6 ingredients have been on the rise for decades, particularly from “seed oils” that were unheard of 100 years ago.

Here’s a tip: If you don’t have enough money to buy more fish or fish oil supplements, you can increase your body’s Omega-3 intake for free, simply by switching the types of oils you use in cooking, baking, and condiments:

OUT: Omega-6 rich soybean oil, corn oil, safflower seed oil, mayonaise, and margerine
IN: Oils like olive oil and butter. Many grocers now provide generic brands of olive oils, which are less expensive.)

Learn how to build a firewall around your intake of healthy fats and preserve their benefits. You can listen to the show below, and check out the book authored by one of its guests: Maximize the Power of Omega-3s to Supercharge Your Health, Battle Inflammation, and Keep Your Mind Sharp.

Listen to the fact-filled program on NPR’s Kojo Show, and his three guests.

RELATED STORIES: — Omega-3 Fish Oil Better ADHD Treatment
— Schools, Prisons Take Positive Action With Diets
(see bottom for Scientific Studies)


Family Enjoys Closeness After 7 Years Together at Sea

family-at-beach-flippers-sun

family-at-beach-flippers-sunAfter seven years at sea, the Crafton family is coming ashore, but slowly. They are in no hurry to shed the awe they feel about what they have accomplished: an 83-month, 30,000-mile circumnavigation of both the globe and the roughest years of their kids’ childhoods.

“We just seemed to get along better the longer we were out there,” marveled Tom, father in the family of five.

“The day we moved onto the boat, the sibling rivalry stopped.”

(READ the story in the Washington Post)

The Unsung Heroes of Potters Bar Train Crash

Tube Trains London

Tube Trains LondonAt a recent government inquest into what went wrong when a train car derailed in London and killed seven people on May 10, there was also discussion of what went right.

“The impact of the accident may well have been far worse, had it not been for a number of ordinary people who did a number of extraordinary things that day,” said a reporter for the BBC News Service.

The inquest heard how fellow train passengers, waiting travellers, passers-by, rail workers, off-duty emergency employees and staff from nearby businesses all put their own fears aside and dashed to the aid of those affected by the derailment.

The judge at the hearing made a point of highlighting these acts of kindness during the inquest, offering an official public ‘Thank You’, and said it was “gratifying” to recognize the remarkable response from local people and passengers.

(READ more about the kind acts in BBC News)

Thanks to Laura for submitting the link!

Men Switched at Birth Now Living Together With Both Families

sunflower-group

photo by Sun StarTwo years back, these two men didn’t know of each other’s existence. Then they learned they had been accidentally switched at birth more than 20 years ago.

But the discovery didn’t bring bitterness or recrimination. Rather, it led to the creation of a bigger family.

Today, the two 25-year-olds are living with both sets of parents working together growing vegetables and coffee on a small farm in southeastern Brazil.

(READ the AP story, w/ photo at Yahoo)

Exterminated 50 Years Ago, Cheetahs to Run Again in India

cheetahd

cheetahdThe cheetah is poised to sprint once again along India’s grassland, nearly half a century after it was hunted to extinction.

The fastest mammal on Earth and the only one whose name has been derived from Sanskrit will be reintroduced into three specified sites under a planned $6 million rehabilitation project.

India’s federal environment ministry plans to import 18 African cheetahs acquired from Iran, Namibia and South Africa, where they were raised in captivity.

(READ the story in the Irish Times)

Feds and Farmers Create Wetlands for Migrating Birds Headed for Gulf

irrigation-crop

irrigation-cropGovernment officials hope to turn 150,000 acres of farmland into wetlands by Aug. 15 to be ready for migratory birds that would otherwise be visiting their usual Gulf of Mexico wintering grounds which are threatened by oil.

Across eight states, farmers with fallow fields of rice and crawfish will try to provide an alternative for some of the tens of millions of ducks, geese and shorebirds that are beginning to make their way south.

“Hopefully, we can help,” said Craig Gautreaux, who has dedicated 762 acres to the project about 90 miles inland from the Gulf under a three-year, $132,441 contract that likely will cover his costs but provide little if any profit. “I want to keep the birds around.”

(READ about the $20 million federal project via AP in the TimesUnion.com)

Curing Ailments With Natural Remedies

Photo by Sun Star

photo courtesy of Sun StarGentle on the body, but still effective for relieving symptoms, alternative remedies have the backing of scientific studies.

The editor of Prevention magazine shares alternative treatments for everything from hypertension to hot flashes.

WATCH the video below, or at Today

Photo courtesy of Sun Star

Artist Creates Own Grand Version of Big Bang Theory

wedidit

wediditA fantastic one-year effort by wall-painting artist, Blu, resulted in this unique stop-motion film entitled, Big, Bang, Boom.

The video is directed and animated by BLU, produced and distributed by ARTSH.it (send you enquiries there), with a soundtrack by ANDREA MARTIGNONI.

Visit Blublu.org for more… Watch a larger screen shot of this video at Vimeo, here.

Branson Brings Virgin Money to Help Main Street Australians

Branson in Australia launching Virgin Money credit card

Branson in Australia launching Virgin Money credit cardThe financial sector in Australia has become highly consolidated, said Sir Richard Branson this week, eliminating choice and producing higher costs for the average Aussie.

That’s why he unveiled Virgin Money, a range of new products starting with two credit cards and an online savings account — all of which are best in class — with the intention of putting more money back in Australians’ pockets.

“Australia steered itself superbly through the global financial crisis, but unfortunately this came at a price: the elimination of genuine choice.”

How does Branson plan to shake up financial services in Australia?

Virgin Money is out to make a fair profit – not the most they can get away with. 

Store Clerk Talks Robber Out of Crime (Video)

store camera shot

store camera shotWith her gentle compassionate talk, a South Florida mobile phone sales clerk talks a would-be robber out of committing a robbery.

At many points during the long conversation she tells him, “Jesus can help you.”

He leaves the store apologizing, telling her it was not a real gun.

WATCH the video below, or at Clip Syndicate

Q2 Investments by US Businesses Most in 13 Years

1stwisconsinbldg

1st wisconsin bldgThe Commerce Department report released Friday did offer some encouraging economic news.

Businesses invested the most in 13 years on equipment and software during the second quarter. For the first time in two years, builders boosted spending on commercial projects. And home builders spent the most in 27 years, although many expect that to fade now that government homebuying tax credits have expired.

The report also showed that the economy grew at a 3.7 percent pace in the first three months of this year. That was much better than the 2.7 percent pace estimated just a month ago.

(From today’s AP Finance report in RealClearMarkets)

Galapagos Removed From Endangered List

Galapagos Marine iguana

Galapagos Marine iguanaThe Galapagos Islands have been removed from the UNESCO list of legacy sites around the globe under threat by environmental or human assault.

After meeting on Wednesday, the UNESCO committee said proactive measures by Ecuador’s government to limit dangers to the nearby island chain have left the Galapagos Islands safer now.

The Galapagos Islands, which have been called a unique “living museum and showcase of evolution” were inscribed on the Danger List in 2007 because of threats posed by invasive species, unbridled tourism and over-fishing.

The Committee found that significant progress had been made by Ecuador in addressing these problems. It welcomed the Government’s continuing efforts to strengthen conservation measures, especially in dealing with introduced species.

Galapagos Removed From Endangered List

Galapagos Marine iguana

Galapagos Marine iguanaThe Galapagos Islands have been removed from the UNESCO list of legacy sites around the globe under threat by environmental or human assault.

After meeting on Wednesday, the UNESCO committee said proactive measures by Ecuador’s government to limit dangers to the nearby island chain have left the Galapagos Islands safer now.

The Galapagos Islands, which have been called a unique “living museum and showcase of evolution” were inscribed on the Danger List in 2007 because of threats posed by invasive species, unbridled tourism and over-fishing.

The Committee found that significant progress had been made by Ecuador in addressing these problems. It welcomed the Government’s continuing efforts to strengthen conservation measures, especially in dealing with introduced species.

Fly-over Shows Progress In Gulf

wetlands

wetlandsA recent Coast Guard flight over the site of the exploded BP oil well shows that the thick black swaths of oil have dissipated in the Gulf of Mexico.

“Two months ago, I took a boat ride to this exact spot and it was thick with black oil,” said one NPR reporter. “The flight this week revealed a dramatic difference.”

“Between the skimming, the surface burns and chemical dispersants and the more than 4,000 vessels working to stop it from spreading, the oil is dissipating.”

(READ the full story at NPR.org)