Pop Tug

Who is the greatest golfer of all time? It’s a question that has been a topic of conversation in the golf world for years. It has been discussed in depth more recently since Tiger Woods has been gaining on Jack Nicklaus in all time major championship victories. For me, Nicklaus (with 18 career major championships)…

These days more individuals and families are moving away from home ownership and instead find themselves renting, due to economic necessity or the desire to simplify life. When it comes to insurance protection, auto and homeowners coverage usually come to mind. But renters coverage can also play a very important role in how you protect…

I remember my Dad coming home from work one day. It was always exciting when Daddy was home. He got out of the car and hugged us kids and with great enthusiasm said, “Do you know what day this is?” We all shook our heads “no.” He looked at the six of us and said,…

John McDaniel, 32, who was named his school’s Teacher of the Year just days ago, has been arrested for inappropriate contact with one of his middle school students. McDaniel, the band director at Colleyville Middle School, is charged with carrying an improper relationship with a student and solicitation of a minor online, according to police…

I took a Caribbean cruise over the Christmas holidays. Once I’m on board, I don’t disembark too often as I’ve already seen most of the sights. Instead, I prefer to catch up on my reading. While the passengers are ashore, I have the run of the ship to myself. It’s very peaceful and relaxing I…

Childcare is one of the most rewarding jobs that there is. In all the various jobs that I have had, including a cashier, 1-hour photo clerk and bookkeeper, the most fulfilling job that I had was when I worked in childcare. I have actually recently decided to go back to working in childcare by providing…

Many people-including President Barack Obama-have spoken about the advantages of learning another language. In a world where globalization makes interacting with individuals from other countries common, doing so seems like a good idea. Nevertheless, America’s English-only movement-as well as sustained consensus amongst many parents that having their child learn another language in school is disadvantageous…

I never would have guessed that the same year I turned 21 I would already have finished my undergrad, gotten married, and moved across the country. But that is exactly what 2012 held for me. Or, more accurately, that is the plan God held for me. My mother grew up in a Lutheran church. My…

At the beginning of every year, I pack up the Christmas decorations, clean out the closets and pull out all the clothes that don’t fit, toys that the kids have outgrown and items that we just don’t use, I go through all the old papers in the filing cabinet and get ready for the New…

The greatest professional moment of my life was when I became a Marine. Each moment to follow was met with a “greatest” moment statement by me, but it wasn’t because I didn’t understand greatness, it’s just that being a Marine is greatness overall. I had no intention of being a Marine. I did choose to…

By now, it is widely known that Khalid Sheikh Mohammed (KSM), the alleged mastermind of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on New York and Washington as well as the self-confessed killer of American journalist Daniel Pearl, was waterboarded 183 times. Many conservatives claim that this brutal treatment– which has been prosecuted as torture in…

AUDREY, a touching romantic comedy, from Manchego Pictures, is slated to open early 2013 and already has buzz for its charming take on the emotional roller coaster of contemporary dating as boy meets girl suffering from relationship neurosis. AUDREY’s delightful introduction credits show the audience in animated cartoon sequences the story of young Audrey and…

Americans are stressed out – That is my opinion, shaped by years of working in the mental health field. I am around patients who frequently report excessive worry, tension, fatigue, sleep problems, and irritability; not to mention a host of anxiety related physical complaints: Shakiness, sweaty palms, headaches, stomach issues, chest pains, and shortness of…

There are many singles who decide that traditional dating is not worth the time, hassle, and effort it requires. One comment I hear often is, “I am so tired of telling my story to new people. I just want to meet someone and not have to go over the details of who I am anymore.”…

I’m not a big fan of yogurt– but I am a big fan of probiotics, both for myself and my family members. Probiotics are forms of bacteria that are helpful, rather than harmful, to the human body. Our bodies are loaded with natural probiotics: they keep our digestive systems, urinary tracts, and reproductive systems safe…

Quetiapine, marketed as Seroquel by AstraZeneca, was FDA approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in 1997. In 2004, it was given a second approval by the FDA for the treatment of mania-associated bipolar disorder. Up until September 2011, there were no generic equivalents available, as AstraZeneca retained exclusive rights to the patent. This was excellent…

I don’t think there is a parent alive that has not ended up in the middle of some massive parenting debate. Both sides always feel vindicated, as if there is no chance they are wrong, and worse, that if they let even the inkling of doubt stand it will somehow endanger the very lives of…

Before the performance show even began this week on “American Idol,” Ryan Seacrest announced controversy. With the cooperation of law enforcement, they had found information that required them to eliminate one of their competitors from the live competition. Who would it be? The theme was “Songs from the Year Contestants were Born,” and baby photos…

Growing up I always felt somewhat deprived when it came to things, baubles and trinkets. While other kids ran around in the newest L.A. Gears and sported trendy fashions, I sported leftovers from the church donation closet. I would get used charity gifts for Christmas and remember feeling ever envious about the stylish new things…

In today’s economy, many of us are looking for ways to cut our monthly expenses while still enjoying the plethora of entertainment options available to us through the Internet or cable providers. Roku is your solution. Streaming movies, music, games, news, and more from the Internet to your high definition TV couldn’t be easier than…

Are you a Tennessee Titans fan who’s confident that this team will turn things around in 2012? Please share some of that optimism with the coaches and executives. Apparently, they’ve become pessimists. Or maybe they’re just realists about the situation they’re facing. The Titans are scared. At least, that’s what National NFL Insider Mike Freeman…

Are you planning a winter party this year? Do your party guests enjoy winter sports and recreation? If so, you may want to consider adding a few snow sports related drinks to your bar menu. As a former special events planner, I happen to have a few snow sports themed cocktails that I can recommend…

Until fairly recently, I was the “fun money” provider in my household, and life was pretty good. While my husband covered necessities like food, shelter and monthly bills, I was more of the cruise director, paying for extras, like trips to Dairy Queen, splurges at Target, or new clothes for back-to-school. Then, like many people,…

Businesses experience tough times these days. Entrepreneurs have it rough right now. I know. I lost a big account in my little jewelry business. Down and out describes the deep disappointment I felt. I blamed the economy, but the nation’s financial slump is not within my control. I blamed myself for the personal slump in…

The recently hired nurse orderly knocked softly on the door of room 106. Not getting a response to her knock she opened the door, entered the room and walked across the carpeted floor to where ninety year old U.S. Army Colonel (Retired) John (High Pockets) Packard was seated in his wheel chair staring blankly at…

Flight attendant Susan Carnes did what she always does on an ordinary day at work; making sure her passengers on board the plane were comfortable and everything was running smoothly. Little did she know that she would be assisting in the delivery a healthy baby boy to a first-time mom 36,000 feet in the air….

Who doesn’t get tired listening to sweet nothings from a person who says things you can’t completely understand? Many people just give up, stop listening and hope for it to stop. The GOP knows this and tries to enter euphemistic alternative interpretations of reality to support their half-truths. I will give you an example of…

Camping is a great way to bond with friends and family, but the onset of rainy weather can ruin an otherwise enjoyable experience. This doesn’t have to be the case. By wearing the right clothing and properly preparing your camp, you can enjoy camping unhindered even in the midst of a downpour. Wear water-resistant clothing….

The 2012 U.S. Open is in the books. With some amazing performances and terrific matches over the last few days, tennis fans were left wanting more. A few players in particular can be proud of what they accomplished over the last two weeks in Flushing Meadows. Here are five winners from this year’s U.S. Open:…

As a native Southern Californian, my Disneyland memories span decades. While I don’t own an annual passport, I’ve made enough trips to the “Happiest Place on Earth” to come up with my own opinions about this unique fairy-tale-come-true in Anaheim. And, for the most part, they are full of praise and admiration. These are the…

A close friend’s daughter went through a number of hamsters over the last six or seven years. This was due to poor health when she got them. I thought it could be important to write about how to choose a healthy hamster. Although it may sound difficult there are actually quite a few observations you…

Staying in shape is an important part of achieving overall health. With the rate of obesity, watching your weight is crucial. I am one of those people that does not calorie count. I have been a yo yo dieter in the past which was the result of strict dieting. I was a fierce calorie counter…

What? ‘Tis the season to be dark and sexy; channel your inner Goth this winter with romantic pieces in black lace and leather. This trend can transform you into a brooding Italian bombshell or your favourite fairytale bad-girl so take this opportunity to invest in a seriously stormy outfits that you can rock all winter…

COMMENTARY | Putting aside your own feelings to do what you believe is the right thing is what makes this a better world for you, me and everyone else. Well, almost everyone. When I was legally of voting age, I was determined to exercise this right. I had my own apartment off South Street in…

Proper watering is perhaps the most important aspect of gardening — especially during the hot, summer months. Making sure your garden and landscape plants have plenty of water is a must if you want healthy, gorgeous flowers and tasty homegrown goods. Check out these tips for proper watering and enjoy your summer gardening. Watering Time…

There are many people throughout the country who are currently seeking employment. I have recently found myself in that same situation and I must say it can be very discouraging. Throughout my search, there has been one thing that is more frustrating and discouraging than anything else: the abundance of work at home gimmicks. These…

We all have flower pots sitting here and there with our favorite plants growing in them. You can buy flower pots in many different colors and sizes but have you ever wished for something that would match the flavor of your landscape, something unique and original? Here are some ideas for planters and flower beds…

I did believe the Oakland Raiders could continue moving forward in a positive direction and build on their August 25th win against the Detroit Lions, but they did not. The Raiders traveled to Seattle for their final preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, August 30th and lost 21-3 The Seahawks Seattle is no…

A person entering a career in law from a distinctively different professional background needs specialized knowledge that intertwines law and their profession. In entering a medical-legal position with a large health maintenance organization, my knowledge of both healthcare and medical/nursing law became my foot in the door. Fortunately, previous work lobbying to update the Nurse…

Our country is full of amazing places, both natural and man-made. Here is a top ten list of the places you should see in the United States. Some are natural, some are created by man, but all of them are awe- inspiring, and places that you don’t want to miss out on. Grand Canyon, Arizona…

In “The Wolves of Cernogratz,” Saki weaves some clever satire into an interesting story. He shows how Baron and Baroness Gruebel lay claim to a totally undeserved social honor. The Gruebels were living in a castle that once belonged to the Cernogratz family. As the story opens, they were discussing a legend connected with their…

I used to think that the phrase “Halcyon days” meant the “early days” or “the days before one was experienced.” However, this usage is actually incorrect. The phrase “Halcyon days,” means “calm, peaceful days.” It turns out that the phrase is very old. The origin starts with Ovid’s Metamorphoses which was thought to be written…

The iPad has re-defined the word “all-in-one.” With over half a million apps in the App Store, about 170,000 native to the iPad, its uses seems limitless. But for all it can do, there is one thing it has yet to accomplish. Drop it on the ground or bump it hard enough on the edge…

Kerry Wood burst onto the baseball scene just as I kicked my baseball fandom into high gear. It was the early 2000s and the Chicago Cubs had themselves a dynamic duo of young pitchers in Kerry Wood and Mark Pryor. They emerged as top starters at almost identical times and received well deserved attention by…

Like millions of other people, I have been depressed. Also like those millions of other people, when I say I have been depressed, I do not mean I have been bummed out. I mean that I have suffered from clinical depression, which is so much more than being sad. I was washed out, unmotivated, tired,…

Extortion is the use of a threat in order to get something, usually money or property, from someone else. The interesting thing about Extortion is that it can be any threat, not just a threat of physical harm. §518 of the California Penal Code defines Extortion as the obtaining of property from another with his…

We all want cleaner water. For years, aqua drinkers had several options. Water lovers installed costly water filtration systems in the home under a kitchen sink. They treated tap water with pricey cleansing chemicals, or more commonly, helped boost an ever growing bottled water industry by purchasing expensive choices like Evian or Poland Spring. Bottled…

Some 12 killed at an Aurora, Colorado theater shooting during an early Friday morning screening of the newest batman movie, or otherwise The Dark Knight Rises. Another 58 injured, many critically injured. In the actual article, the suspect has yet to have been identified when the story broke out, but he was allegedly wearing a…

Since the year 2010, the IRS has been taking steps to regulate tax preparers, in order to improve the quality of tax returns and to protect taxpayers from tax preparer fraud and incompetence. These steps have included requiring tax preparers to obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number, pass a competency test, pay an annual fee,…

I’ve noticed — and not surprisingly so — that as my parents age, I’m starting to do more and more projects around their homes for them. I really don’t mind doing this, as long as I know how to take on such work, as it makes me feel useful, I enjoy helping them, and it…

I am an old-fashioned girl who does not believe in divorce; that is why I have been through two. I did not get married on a whim just to divorce two days later like some Hollywood starlet. In each relationship, I thought I finally found the right one. Eventually, I realized that instead of waiting…

While I strongly caution against leaving children alone in public, my opinion at home isn’t as strong. I believe kids need to be allowed to play alone outside at home. As a child my fondest memories were of wandering about in the Alaskan wilderness, aka the woods behind my house, all by my lonesome. Even…

My stories originate from odd dreams. With the exception of “The Cat Who Wanted to be a Reindeer”, every story I’ve ever written came from a piece of or whole dream. I really don’t know where my crazy dreams come from – what I’m eating beforehand that induces these lunatic twists, but I’m thankful they…

In Southern California, our summer lasts from May to September. At times, the heat is unbearable. Luckily, the beach or a body of water is never too far away. Since my daughter is out of school, I like to make sure we have plenty of fun activities for her. This summer our littlest will be…

There may come a time during one of your camping trips when you will need to start a campfire with natural substances. There are quite a few items that will get the job done. Here are five of the best ones: 1. Pine Needles and Pine Cones In Georgia, pine needles are quite plentiful and…

Sitting around with my girlfriends at our monthly dinners, our conversations cover everything from family related drama to the latest Lohan arrest. So, not surprisingly, the subject of marriage is bound to come up, but that is not the problem. The issue resides in how OFTEN the subject comes up AND how the discussion of…

Fashion shows often show stylish looks that everyday people simply would not wear. There are some fashions that made their way to the catwalk this year that are stylish, affordable and actually wearable. Taking the time to consider if a certain style will look good on your body type before wearing it is important. When…

Evelyn Greenslade (Dame Judi Dench) recently lost her husband and has decided to live in Jaipur, India, a city which is affordable since she had to sell her house to pay for her husband’s medical bills. She is one of seven retirees from England who have all decided to make Jaipur their home, each for…

House sitting is a great way to earn extra cash from time to time and can lead to repeat work if householders like the way you have cared for their home in their absence. But if you hope to be called upon to house sit again, you need to prove you are completely reliable and…

COMMENTARY | Far too often a child is in the midst of controversy and hears too much for their young ears or see too much for their young eyes. While some think it’s OK to allow them to see and hear things, it’s sometimes results in damage not just to the child, but to many…

Concerns about rust and corrosion came roaring back when in the last month we replaced brake lines on four Jeep Grand Cherokees. Each unit had over 100,000 miles on it, which was not remarkable since the newest vehicle was 9 years old. The brake line in question runs along the driver’s side frame rail just…

Patients, doctors, and medical groups have been dreaming of the day that multiple sclerosis would meet its match. That day seems to be coming faster than ever before. Patient’s diagnosis with multiple sclerosis may no longer have to worry about multiple sclerosis dictating how they live their lives. There is a team of scientist and…

Airbus, the European plane maker based in Toulouse, France has posted a plan for the future on its site that includes a host of improvements to the way planes fly, rather than to the planes themselves. EngGadget notes that the changes are almost all focused around increasing fuel efficiency, which makes sense they say, because…

So you’ve applied for that interesting well-paying job that seems to fit your aspirations and are eagerly awaiting confirmation for that interview or job offer that will hopefully deliver a one-way drive down easy street. However, the first day goes by, and the next, then a week, a month, perhaps six months with no sign…

People have been downsizing their energy use, cars and their waistlines. Houses are being downsized, too. Empty nesters are selling large homes and moving into smaller spaces. Tiny houses are making the news as sustainable and workable living spaces. While some reporters and others make fun of them, they are providing housing for individuals and…

Back in November 2011, my wife and I started looking at alternatives to disposable diapers for our baby. She was constantly getting diaper rashes and we went through the whole lot of diaper brands with no avail. My wife found an awesome website that offered cloth diapers and here is where our idea for a…

Based off of the 1999 epistolary novel of the same name and written by Stephen Chbosky, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is sure to be a movie that captivates all who love to cheer for the underdog. Stephen Chbosky wrote the screenplay and is also directing the film, so anyone who loves the book…

Imagine driving down the road and when it’s time to turn, you feel a subtle bit of vibration from the steering wheel on your hand. No noise, no having to take your eyes off the road, you simply turn when you feel that familiar buzz. That’s the concept, Technology Review reports, behind AT&T’s new haptic…

As much as the public enjoys harping on their belief that boxing is dead and has fallen second fiddle to UFC, the reality is that there is no bad publicity in this sport. Any perceived negativity is actually what helps keep it thriving. The more it appears to be ‘out’, the more ‘in’ it really…

It’s time to throw open those bedroom windows, let some fresh air in and dive into a weekend project of cleaning and organizing your bedroom. I know it can be hard to get motivated to clean when the weather is great and you’d rather be outside, feeling all that warm, golden sunshine on your face….

There are a lot of different topics that have to be addressed when you are in a relationship. Some issues are simple, and others are far more complicated. In the 10 years I have been in the dating world, I learned that most of the same problems one couple has, others have as well. In…

Not many American royalty-watchers could spare the time or money to attend Queen Elizabeth’s June 2012 Diamond Jubilee festivities in person. Nonetheless, we participated vicariously via television and other media coverage. Like others around the world, we Americans who have never known any other British sovereign are amazed by the Queen’s 60 years of steadiness…

In Spring of 2008, I was glued to my DVR to watch “Mariah Carey week” on American Idol. It couldn’t get much better than watching Carey’s catalog of hits finally get some well deserved attention. Which songs would be performed? How would they do? Would Mariah be hands-on or just tell everyone “good job”? Aside…

The 112th U.S. Open Championship will be played June 14-17, 2012, at The Olympic Club in San Francisco. This is the fifth Open held at the club’s Lake Course, which also hosted in 1955, ’66, ’87, and most recently in 1998. Ten past winners are in the field for 2012, including defending champion Rory McIlroy,…

The 2012 Black Friday event will begin at midnight on November 23rd. Many online stores have already begun their early Black Friday sales. I’ve noticed that a large number of people are now shopping online instead of in the stores, due to past incidents involving riots and fighting. Regardless of whether you’re an “Internet” or…

The 2012 Major League Baseball season had some great moments. From the league’s first Triple Crown winner in 45 years to several perfect games and no-hitters to playoff berths by the Washington Nationals, Baltimore Orioles, and Oakland Athletics, “America’s Pastime” was chock full of incredible stories. Despite all of that, there aren’t too many things…

It has been 39 years today since the death of Major Warren H. Lewis at his home, The Kilns. While plans are already underway to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of C. S. Lewis in 2013, I’m sure the memorials will be much quieter for the former Oxford don’s older brother. The Lewis…

While many cities have already transitioned from spring into summer, Duluth, Minnesota, is just basking in the glow of spring. With the smell of fresh blooms and the incredible rocky views of Lake Superior, Duluth is more often known as a destination for Minnesotans, not for the rest of the country. But Minnesota Nice requires…

The cost of going on a honeymoon has certainly gone up in recent years. Hotel stays are more expensive, and even the cost of gas is on the rise again. So if you are planning on getting married in the near future how can you afford to go on the honeymoon you have always wanted?…

Even if there is no time or budget for a full, week-long vacation–there is often room for a road trip. Those with pets especially enjoy taking the family dog or cat along on such trips. Dogs seem to love car trips, and there are tons of pet travel products geared toward dogs. Cats, however, have…

A quick pick-me-up anytime of the day is right in front of my nose. I keep certain scents nearby to provide a boost of energy that will increase my performance, stamina and improve my mood. Each energizing scent helps me deal more efficiently with all the daily demands on my time and energy, plus the…

Previously published in Examiner on Jan 20, 2013 Animal hoarding is a hot topic today. Many people have been found to have way too many animals in their home. Yahoo News reported a story yesterday of a case where nearly 300 animals had to be removed from a house in Dayton, Ohio. They report that,…

I always start with a title. This will be the hook of the song or that repetitive part of the song we call a chorus. You may know these titles – The House That Built Me, Water, So You Don’t Have to Love Me Anymore. Notice how these words repeat in the song. A line…

It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since the debut of the charity compilation album, “A Very Special Christmas.” The nine-album series — which features the late Keith Haring’s telltale Madonna and child artwork on the cover– is the most successful benefit recording in musical history, generating more than $100 million for Special Olympic…

Siding is a great way to cover the exterior of any home. It’s affordable, looks good and lasts a long time-but only with the right care and maintenance. Use these tips and techniques for caring for a home’s siding and get the most out of your home’s siding. Cleaning Whether it’s wood, cement or vinyl,…

Double the pleasure might mean double the trouble, but in the best possible way for HGTV’s twin property renovators, Property Brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott. Tall, dark, and handsome is only the beginning when describing these two hunky businessmen. Drew handles the real estate purchases while Jonathan turns them into the dream homes only imagined…

Even the best protected front door can show a little age or wear over time. Follow a few simple refinishing rules and you can bring the door back to better than new condition. If you’ve waited too long and need to replace the door the same basic rules apply. This is everything you need to…

Many of us get into the habit of making nightly trips to the grocery store to pick up something quick for dinner. I know I have been guilty of that action plenty of times during my adult life. Anyone in my family could tell you I despise shopping. I don’t want to spend any more…

Recently, I switched to what is called a Caveman diet, or a raw diet. I used to be a Firefighter, but I am not anymore because of a knee injury that I suffered. After my injury, I started getting out of shape, so I decided to alter my diet for two main reasons, one, if…

Movie Review: ‘Battle Los Angeles Rating: PG: 13 Directed by: Jonathan Liebesman Stars: 4 out of 5 ‘Battle Los Angeles’ is a big-budget blockbuster movie that tells the story of an alien invasion. The movie opens with several meteorites striking large cities on the East Coast. Scientists believe that the meteors show signs of intelligent…