Syndicated Features

Features brought to you by: ARA

Automotive ( top )

Back to Basics at the Pump

(ARA) - For most drivers, filling up at the pump is an automatic routine. But considering that cars are typically one of our largest investments, it's important to remember the way we take care of them can mean the difference between trouble-free driving and costly repairs.

Bridal ( top )

Bridal Registry Tips and Items You'll Really Use

(ARA) - While the fondue pot and ice cream maker seem like must-haves when you're adding items to your bridal registry, it's important to ask yourself, "Will I really use these items on a regular basis?" You may want to reconsider your selections. And, although making a wedding gift wish list can be daunting, the following tips can keep the happy couple celebrating wedded bliss for years to come.

Business And Careers ( top )

Boomers back in the job market: Stay ahead by getting your hearing checked

(ARA) - Impressive resume �- check. Perfect interview suit �- check. Hearing aid �- uh, how's that again?

Community Cares ( top )

Older Adult Volunteers Bring New Expertise and New Life to Nonprofits

(ARA) - When Margaret Ross retired from a career in nursing, she had no idea that her new life as a volunteer would lead her right back into healthcare.

Education ( top )

More Americans going back to school to reinvent themselves

(ARA) - Many Americans are considering heading back to school and taking other steps to reinvent their professional lives given the state of the economy, according to an April survey by Harris Interactive.

Family Living ( top )

Four Outstanding Outdoor Activities Your Family Will Love

(ARA) - This summer, with more people spending vacation time close to home, there's renewed interest in family activities in the great outdoors. Whether it's hiking, biking or trying something completely new, Mother Nature can bring a family together like few other things can.

Fashion Beauty Fitness ( top )

Men vs. women -- understanding the bathroom gender divide

(ARA) - Ever wonder what your significant other is doing behind the shower curtain? Curious as to why women consistently take longer showers than men? Whether the toilet seat is left up or down or the toothpaste cap is left on or off -- the differences between men and women's bathroom habits are undeniable.

Food Recipes Entertaining ( top )

Helping kids stay strong during the summer months

(ARA) - Summer meals may taste great, but many also lack some of the essential nutrients kids need, especially when it comes to building and maintaining strong bones.

Gift Ideas ( top )

Share the workload, then the fun

(ARA) - Now that summer is here and kids are out of school, families can make more time for summer fun by making quick work of pesky household chores. When all hands are on deck -- even the little ones -- the chores are completed faster, leaving more time for fun in the summer sun.

Green Living ( top )

What's old is new for parents looking to save money

(ARA) - Because raising a child in tough economic times can be expensive and financially challenging, many families are looking for ways to reduce their spending without having to sacrifice their family's well-being. This has resulted in a slew of families getting creative by making old items new again.

Health And Wellness ( top )

Temperatures Rising? Take Dinner Outdoors

(ARA) - Hot dogs, hamburgers and pork ribs aren't the healthiest eats in the bunch, especially if getting fit for the summertime is a priority. You won't have to compromise these good ol' grilling favorites at your next barbecue if lighter substitutions are made elsewhere.

Home Decorating ( top )

Let Mother Nature be your guide for summer entertaining

(ARA) - As the cost of an evening out continues to grow, so does the trend of staying home to entertain family and friends. If you're a budget-conscious consumer, you don't have to spend a fortune to dazzle your guests; experts say you can get some of the best summer decorating ideas from Mother Nature.

Home Improvement ( top )

Solar Water Heating Can Save Money and Pay Off Big

(ARA) - Green-minded homeowners can continue to turn to the sky for help in coping with rising energy costs for years to come thanks to an extension of the solar tax credit program by Congress.

Hot Topics ( top )

Family finds new hope in battling rare disease

(ARA) - Matt and Karen Douglas had only been married for a few years when Matt started exhibiting early symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD). His symptoms started with small, uncontrolled movements, such as his hands twitching when he didn't want them to; but the movements soon worsened and became so severe that Matt was unable to drive his car.

Kitchen Bed Bath ( top )

Budget conscious Americans are dining in -- in style

(ARA) - As the economy took a downturn, there was a major shift in how Americans shopped and entertained. 'Nesting' made a comeback, and as such, dining out has been replaced with invitations to friends and family to dine in.

Lawn And Garden ( top )

New Deck Trends Help Define Your Outdoor Living Area

(ARA) - Just as your home's decor is a statement of your taste and personality, so is your backyard. As the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Money And Finance ( top )

Ensure you have the proper auto insurance coverage

(ARA) - We have all seen an auto insurance company ad on television luring customers on a premise of how easy it is to save money with them. However, it's not about just saving money.

Pets ( top )

Does your housecat need a behavioral housecall? Help is here

(ARA) - Cats have earned the title of America's favorite pet in part because they outnumber dogs in households across the country, but it could also be because their quirky personalities make life interesting.

Real Estate ( top )

What You Should Know When Shopping for a Water Heater

(ARA) - How's your relationship with your household appliances? You open your refrigerator every day and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer several times each week.

Seasonal ( top )

Stay safe in the water this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings trips to the beach, splashing in lakes and rivers and parties by the pool. But that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if someone drowns. While it's unpleasant to think about the worst case scenario, it turns out approximately one in four U.S. adults knew someone who drowned and nearly half of adults say they've had a near-drowning experience, according to a recent American Red Cross survey.

Senior Living ( top )

Six steps in six days to win the battle over 'Boomeritis'

(ARA) - If you are one of the 27 million Americans who suffer with joint pain from osteoarthritis (OA), you are not alone.

Tech Talk And Innovation ( top )

Techorating Tips for the New Technology in Your Home

(ARA) - In the current economic environment, many people are refocusing their priorities on family and home. Experts say more Americans are creating a home theater experience in their home instead of going out. Perhaps you're thinking about using your tax refund for a new HDTV. Or maybe you're getting a new home theater system in time to invite friends over for the summer baseball season or to enjoy this fall's football games in big-screen style.

Travel ( top )

Getting kids to sleep while on the road

(ARA) - With the summer season upon us, many families will be flocking to the highways to embark on amusement ride-filled vacations, to camp at majestic national parks or to drive across the country to visit grandma and grandpa on the opposite coast. But with all of the excitement and fun away from home come missed naps and overstimulated kids who don't want to sleep at night.