(MS) — Fireworks are known and loved all over the world. They’re often a part of festivals and holidays, adding excitement and spectacle. The invention of fireworks is credited to the Chinese. The first fireworks were actually green bamboo that were thrown into fires to scare spirits away in ancient China, called "pas chuk." It is believed that gunpowder was discovered accidentally by a Chinese alchemist who mixed sulphur and salt peter (potassium nitrate) over a fire. The Chinese name for gunpowder is "huo yao" (fire chemical). TF087067

(MS) — One may be hard-pressed to find a person who doesn’t enjoy a breathtaking fireworks display. These pyrotechnic delights are one of the hallmarks of the summer season. Parks, area beaches and many other recreational areas feature fireworks displays to light up the nighttime sky. Fireworks are also very popular for personal use, with peak use around big holidays, such as Independence Day or Canada Day.

Consumer fireworks, if used in accordance with their instructions, are very safe, says the National Council on Fireworks Safety. Injuries from consumer fireworks have dramatically decreased over the past twenty years, despite an increase in usage by consumers. Today, some form of consumer fireworks are allowed in 45 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. But some fireworks can be dangerous. It is recommended that you only buy consumer fireworks from a licensed store or stand. Never buy fireworks from an individual’s house, or from someone on the street. Such fireworks are likely to be illegal explosives that can cause serious injury.

Consumer fireworks regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission are packaged in bright colors and have safety warnings on the packaging. The packaging sets forth the country of origin, normally China. Typical consumer fireworks include fountains, cones, sparklers, fire crackers, bottle rockets, and multiple tube products. Illegal explosives are often unpackaged and are wrapped with plain brown paper. They are unlikely to have any safety warnings, or place of manufacture. Many of them are handmade in basements or illicit factories. They go by names such as M80, Quarter Stick or Cherry Bomb. If someone approaches you to sell one of these illegal explosives, politely decline and then call your local police department.

If you’re planning on enjoying fireworks at your next party or event, follow these safety tips.

• Only use fireworks if they are legal in your area. Shooting fireworks illegally will likely result in fireworks confiscation by authorities (a waste of your money), fines or even jail time.

• Fireworks are for outdoor use only. Do not light them indoors and then carry them outside.

• Follow the instructions for fireworks usage on the packaging. Use them only as intended. Do not try to combine fireworks to get a bigger bang or light display.

• Keep water in a bucket and a hose nearby for safety reasons.

• Fireworks should be operated soley by an adult. This adult should wear safety glasses. Spectators should keep a safe distance. Always let common sense prevail.

• Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting.

• Don’t try to re-light a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes or more and then extinguish the dud in a bucket of water.

• Sparklers can be beautiful but also dangerous. Do not let children under the age of 12 handle sparklers.

• Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.

• Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.

• Be respectful of others. Do not shoot fireworks off for a long duration into the wee hours of the night. Neighbors may be trying to get some sleep.

By being safe, you can ensure that this summer fireworks season will be enjoyable and a delight to behold. TF087053

(MS) — Father’s Day is the perfect time to thank Dad for driving to and from t-ball, coaching little league and helping with homework. Much like a Dad’s responsibilities are wide and varied, so, too, are his interests and personalities. Whereas a coffee mug or necktie used to be the “one size fits all” gift for Father’s Day, for those who want to show how much they truly appreciate Dad’s efforts over the last year, it’s best to let his personality and interests dictate what’s the most appropriate gift.

For the Classic Dad

Psychologists say that smell is more likely to trigger a memory than all of a person’s other senses combined. One might catch a whiff of smoke coming from a charcoal or gas grill and suddenly be reminded of summer BBQ’s, while another may be reminded of waiting tables at a restaurant. Perfumes and colognes have the same effect. They often remind us of friends and family members.

BRUT Cologne Original Fragrance may have been the first cologne Dad owned, but it remains a best seller that has stood the test of time. With notes of lemon, anise, basil and lavender, a bold heart of jasmine and ylang ylang, and a strong, sensual core of musk, sandalwood, oakmoss and vanilla, BRUT Cologne Original Fragrance will bring Dad back to the good ‘ole days this Father’s Day.

For the Sporty Dad

Most Dads love sports, which can mean baseball, football, basketball, etc. Since “sports” is such an ambiguous term, a host of gift ideas exist to put a smile on pop’s face. If Dad is a diehard baseball fan, consider tickets to a ballgame, as the baseball season coincides with Father’s Day.

If Dad is more of an overall sportsman, consider a new fishing pole or taking him out for a backpacking trip. With so many sports to choose from, chances are those looking for a gift for their sporty Dad can find something that will fit the bill.

For Today’s Dad

Some Dads are all about style. While scents are personal and oftentimes hard to select for others, BRUT consists of easy-to-wear men’s grooming products that are designed to complement a guy’s natural scent, taking the guess work out of selecting the perfect cologne. BRUT REVOLUTION Spray Cologne is the fresh new aromatic scent from the creators of BRUT Original. Designed with the masculine, athletic and independent guy in mind, the cologne is exuberantly fresh with top notes of tangy citrus and refreshing cypress. A youthful vibe emits from the fragrance’s aqueous mist mixed with black pepper and patchouli, while the masculinity of the fragrance is derived from sensuous musk and earthy moss. BRUT REVOLUTION Spray Cologne is sure to be a home run with the hip, modern dad this Father’s Day.

For the On-the-Go Dad

For the Dad who is always traveling for work, look for a gift that can make his travels a little more enjoyable. For example, if Dad is routinely racking up the frequent flyer miles, consider a handheld DVD player to add some entertainment value to those long and often boring flights.

If Dad is not much of a movie buff but loves his music, perhaps an MP3 player would be the ideal gift to make his travels a little less stressful. When it comes to Dads and business travel, they’re likely to welcome anything that can help them better cope with the negative side of being away from home.
For additional information on Father’s Day fragrance ideas, visit www.brutworld.com. TF086965

(MS) — If your father, husband or other special man in your life is like most, he takes on tons of responsibility and doesn’t ask for much in return. That’s why you should use every opportunity to show the men you care for just how much they are appreciated.
Just like women, men deserve their chances to kick back, relax and be pampered. But many men won’t admit to needing some special attention. Take it upon yourself to show the plus side to devoting attention to grooming, body care and more so that your guys can look and feel their best.

Sports tickets: Pampering a sports fan is simple. Tickets to see his favorite team in action could be the ideal gift. Thanks to ticket prices inching closer to the average mortgage payment, most men don’t get the chance to see their team in person as often as they’d like. An afternoon at the ballpark with the kids or an old friend can be just the surprise a guy is hoping for.

The gifts that makes scents: Men often overlook the little things like cologne and body soaps that can be a decadent indulgence, which women are more apt to buy. Every man needs a little quality pampering from time to time, and there are plenty of grooming products that are catered especially to the male consumer.

For the woman looking to give her man a primer in pampering, consider Transat and Hoggar fragrances from Yves Rocher. Designed for the modern man who enjoys seeking out the elements to confront and test his abilities, each unique fragrance pleases the senses while lingering on the skin to create a subdued presence. Continue the lesson in indulgence by including complementary items such as Hair and Body Shampoo, After-Shave Lotion and anti-perspirant Deodorant Stick.

Massages: Open up your guy’s eyes to relaxing and therapeutic massages. Many towns now boast salons and spas that offer a variety of massage packages. An experienced massage therapist can work out muscle kinks and address any physical complaints he might have. If your man is shy about venturing out for a massage, there are plenty of therapists who will bring their equipment right to the house.

Go for gadgets: Nary a man walking the earth doesn’t seem to love his gadgets. They can provide the ideal distraction to help him unwind. For the always-on-the-go businessman, give a gift that can help make all that time spent traveling a little less stressful. For the dad or husband who spends his time toiling away on his computer, consider upgrading his computer’s entertainment capabilities to make the day go a little more smoothly. Whatever his hobby or passion, chances are there’s a gadget out there for him that’s the perfect match.

Take care of Dad: Once the warmer weather arrives, most men love spending time outdoors, whether they’re doing yardwork, working on the car in the driveway, or sailing the nearby seas in their beloved boat. Oftentimes, such days spent outdoors in the sun can take their toll on a guy’s skin. A gift such as Energy Face Lotion from Yves Rocher can provide instant hydration, fight signs of fatigue and leave skin feeling stronger and smoother, perfect for combating those summer afternoons spent soaking up the sun.

Cars, cars, cars! Lots of men treat their cars as their pride and joy. Fortunately for women, a host of gift ideas aimed at pampering your man’s car can be the perfect Father’s Day, birthdays and more. Take his car for a wash and detailing job, get his windows tinted or simply give him a gift certificate to the nearby auto parts store. Whichever road you choose, if it’s one that leads to your guy spending more time with his wheels, it’s sure to be the right one.

All Yves Rocher products are available online at www.yvesrocherusa.com, by catalogue at 1 800-321-3434. TF086966

(MS) — President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first official Mother’s Day on May 9, 1914. This proclamation was particularly meaningful to Ana Jarvis, who several years prior had started a campaign to establish a national Mother’s Day holiday to remember her own mother who had recently died. Jarvis wanted a day where all mother’s — past and present — could be honored. Today, Mother’s Day is a popular holiday, where gifts and cards are sent around the world. The official flower for Mother’s Day is the carnation. Pink carnations are for living mothers, and white carnations are for those who have passed on. TF085802

(MS) — It is often said that it’s difficult to measure the immense love a mother has for her children. Until a woman becomes a mother herself, it’s challenging to convey just how the heart expands in order to comfort and love the child that she helped create.
With all that Mom does day in, day out and week after week, it seems that only one day dedicated to thanking her for all the tears she’s dried, smiles she’s shared, and sniffles she’s sat through just isn’t enough. Still, that’s what families across the country do once a year in May.

Just because Mother’s Day comes and goes rather quickly, the gifts and gestures offered to Mom can last much longer. Why not try some of these ideas?

• Help others in need: Explain to Mom how her help throughout the years has inspired you to help others less fortunate. Give her a token of your thanks, but say that you’re also donating time or money in her name for mothers who aren’t as lucky as she. Perhaps there’s a battered women’s shelter or a teenage pregnancy support center. Maybe there are mothers who are homeless. There may even be someone right in your neighborhood who can use a helping hand.

• Memory jar: Create a memory jar that’s filled with memories that you’ve had with your mother, such as the time she dressed up with you for Halloween; when you gave her the chicken pox; when she would “free” you from your room after punishments. Write these recollections on slips of paper and place them into the jar or other container. You can decorate the jar and print the sentiments on decorative card stock, depending upon how elaborate you want to make it. Mom can pull out a slip of paper every day and be treated to wonderful memories.

• Video commentary: Take out the video camera and interview children in the family of all ages. Ask them what they love and cherish most about their mother. The video can include tips of advice, passed-down recipes and other family traditions. Watch the video on Mother’s Day as a family. Or Mom can pop it in anytime she needs a pick-me-up.

• Photo scrapbook: Gather loose pictures that you’ve taken through the years. Compile a scrapbook album of your favorite moments.

• Don’t forget new moms: Send flowers or a gift to a new mother in the family. It’ll mean a considerable amount to her, even if you aren’t her child.

• Crafts for young kids: Handcrafted gifts are par for the course with young children. A clever idea is for Dad or an older sibling to help a young child trace his or her hands on a piece of construction paper. Cut out the hands and poke a hole in each paper hand. Attach a long length of string to each hand, representing the outstretched arms of the child. Enclose the hands with a note indicating that these hands show that: “I Love You This Much, Mom.”

There are many other ideas for telling Mom how special she is. Naturally, store-bought gifts, child-made breakfast or dinner, a meal out at a restaurant, or even a mother-child day planned are wonderful suggestions. TF085758

(MS) — Flowers are one of the most popular gifts for moms. According to The Flower Expert, an online floral resource, of fresh cut flowers purchased for Mother’s Day, mixed flowers, roses and carnations are very popular. While flowers can be a heart-felt gift, why not think of the other scent-sational ways you can show Mom you care this year?

An interesting and original gift idea is introducing Mom to aromatherapy. The science of aromatherapy involves using plant extracts and essential oils as natural ways to improve health, fitness and well-being. Different plant compounds and oils produce different effects. Proponents of aromatherapy say that says that it is much more than an “alternative health” practice. There is evidence that inhaling certain scents can trigger the nervous system and produce a variety of results, including bringing about memories or causing bodily reactions. In fact, some people say that the quickest way to evoke a memory is to use a smell.

Aromatherapy is used in many ways. Realtors suggest baking cookies or simmering vanilla to create an inviting and calm environment when selling a home. Certain aromas revive and give a person energy. Others are calming and therapeutic. Depending upon the woman you love, you can choose scented gifts that will inspire, calm or energize this Mother’s Day.

Essential oils and popular aromatherapy scents can be found in many products today, such as Pur Désir from Yves Rocher. This product line features a variety of complementary scents in perfume, body lotion, shower gel, deoderant and hand soap — all of which make pampering gifts. Here’s a look at the aromatheraphy benefits of some popular scents.

Orange blossom: This citrus and sweet scent helps one to feel refreshed and relaxed. It is known to have antidepressant capabilities, and is often used as a sedative and and antiseptic.

Lavender: This scent is very well known for its calming and therapeutic properties. Lavender is often used during baths and in the evening to help a person wind down. It is also known to soothe restless infants to prepare them for sleep.

Peony: This scent can produce anti-inflammatory reactions in the body. It has been shown to reduce cramps and other aches and pains.

Lilac: Another mood lifter, lilac evokes happiness and harmony.

This year, surprise Mom in a unique way and look to aromatherapy and other delicious scents to indulge and pamper her. Learn more about Pur Désir, which contains peony, lavender, orange blossom, and lilac by visiting www.yvesrocherusa.com.

Beyond the Nose:

There’s more to aromatherapy than just a pretty smell. Essential oils and plant extracts enter the body in three main ways: they are absorbed, inhaled or ingested. Peppermint can be eaten to calm a nausea. A mist of eucalyptus may be inhaled to ease a cough or clear up congestion. Tea tree oil can be applied to the skin to help dry up acne or other skin blemishes. TF085772

(MS) — Memorial Day is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on the final Monday in May. The holiday commemorates service men and women who died in military service to their country. Originally, the holiday honored Union soldiers who fought and died during the American Civil War. However, after World War I the holiday was expanded to commemorate all those who died in military service. Each year, a national moment of remembrance occurs at 3 p.m. EST. While the day is meant to honor fallen veterans, some living veterans remain upset about the observation of Memorial Day. That is because Memorial Day no longer takes place on May 30, a practice the ended years ago. Some veterans believe changing the date of Memorial Day to the last Monday in May was solely an effort to create a three-day weekend for employees across the country. To many veterans, this undermines the true meaning of the day, which many believe is more widely viewed as the unofficial start of summer instead of a day to honor those who gave their lives fighting for the country. These sentiments were expressed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in a Memorial Day address in 2002. TF085762

(MS) — While the precise origins of April Fool’s Day remain a mystery, evidence exists to support the belief that it, or at least the basis for the current April Fool’s Day, is at the very least, several centuries old. Many historians trace April Fool’s Day to Pope Gregory XIII’s decision to adopt the Gregorian Calendar. Previously, much of Europe had relied on the Julian Calendar, which celebrated New Year’s Day on April 1st. The new calendar, however, celebrated New Year’s on January 1st. However, information did not travel as quickly in the 16th Century as it does today, and many people either did not know that New Year’s Day had changed, or simply refused to adopt it. Soon thereafter, those who had adopted the new calendar in France began to make fun of those who hadn’t adopted it or known about it, even going so far as attempting to trick them on their New Year’s Day, April 1st. The practice then began to spread throughout Europe, leaving many historians to believe this was the origin of what we now know as April Fool’s Day. TF084624

(MS) — The holiday of Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. The day gets its name from the night of the tenth plague. On that night, the Angel of Death saw the blood of the lamb on the doorposts of the house of Israel and “passed over” them, as a result saving the houses’ firstborn child. Jews believe this marks the birth of their nation, as their ancestors were freed from being slaves of the Pharaoh and allowed to become followers of their God instead. In Israel, the holiday of Passover is celebrated for seven days, with the first and last days considered major holidays. Also, in Israel Jews celebrate the ritual feast of the Seder on the first night of Passover, and no work is performed for the duration of the holiday. Outside of Israel, Orthodox and Conservative Jewish celebrate Passover for eight days, with both the first two and the last two days as major holidays. Such communities conduct the Seder twice, on the first and second days of the holiday. Work can be performed in the days thereafter. TF085757

(MS) — Though he is known across the globe as the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick was actually born in a territory referred to as Roman Britain, so called because it was part of the island of Great Britain that was controlled by the Roman Empire. At the age of 16, Patrick was brought to Ireland, but hardly by desirable means. In fact, Patrick was captured by Irish raiders and enslaved for more than half a decade. After escaping from slavery, Patrick returned home and soon began to pursue a career in the church. It was during his time as a missionary that Patrick's greatest legend was born. The most popular legend associated with Saint Patrick is his banishing of snakes from Ireland. However, post-glacial Ireland never had any snakes, so this tale is solely legend, and not rooted in truth. Another legend associated with Patrick that might be true also stems from his time as a missionary. In an attempt to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people, Patrick is said to have used a shamrock to illustrate each of the three persons in God. While this is not as impressive a feat as driving snakes out of an entire country, it likely bears more truth than the more widely known legend of Saint Patrick. TF083596

(MS) -- Decoupage is one of many centuries-old crafts that have experienced a resurgence in the past several years. What once consisted of Victorian roses on a grandmother's jewelry keepsake box has spread to images of all shapes and sizes adorning everything from wood blocks to delicate eggs. Relatively simple to master, the art of decoupage is the reformatting of paper onto another surface to form a decorative effect.
One of the greatest draws to the craft is the range of creative possibilities. There are so many images from which to choose. Scour flea markets and garage sales for those special finds that with a little adornment could turn into a beautiful treasure.
Just in time for Easter egg coloring, give a new spin to the tradition by creating unique decoupage eggs. Here's how:
1. With a straight pin, poke small holes into both ends of every egg to be "colored." Gently blow out the whites and yolks. You can choose to reserve the egg contents to create breakfast or lunch to refuel the egg-coloring troops.
2. Cut out small images from magazines or old picture books. Make sure they're small enough to conform to the proportions of the eggs.
3. Lay out the images so you know what you're working with. Gently soak the images in water so that the paper will be pliable.
4. Glue the images directly to the egg shell with a strong adhesive that dries quickly.
5. Once the egg is dry, finish it with two coats of polyurethane. Coat one side at a time and allow to dry while the uncoated side rests in a spoon so that the egg will not roll away. TF084754

(MS) — Easter egg coloring is one of the well-known traditions associated with the holiday. Coloring eggs can be fun for children and adults alike.
As with many Christian holidays, some of the traditions associated with Easter are rooted in prior Pagan rituals or are influenced by European settlers to North America. Easter is a spring holiday, and spring is synonymous with fertility and new life. Eggs are thus linked to the festivities because of their connection to fertility. What’s more, according to History.com, German settlers in America are said to have brought over the tradition of a bunny named “Oschter Haws” who would visit houses on Easter eve, leaving colored eggs for children. Easter eggs were painted different colors to represent the sunlight of spring. Christians later used eggs to symbolize the rebirth of Christ.
For those who will be incorporating the magic of colored eggs in their festivities this year, there are several ways to adorn the eggs that go above and beyond the traditional coloring kits. Here are a few ideas to consider.
1. The well-known Paas coloring kit still remains a classic favorite, replete with dipping spoons and colored packets. Many companies have put their own spins on the coloring kit to include a brighter array of colors and even stickers and other embellishments.
2. There are shrink-wrap kits that feature plastic rings that shrink into place when the eggs are boiled. The rings are imprinted with an Easter design.
3. You can make your own egg dye with the following recipe: Combine 1⁄2 to 1 tablespoon of food coloring with 2 teaspoons white vinegar in a cup that can accommodate an egg. Add water to about the half-way point. Dip in the eggs with a spoon to color.
4. Tie-dye eggs can be created by wrapping rubber bands around eggs before dipping them into the dye. Remove the rubber bands after the dye has dried and see the designs that have resulted.
5. A similar technique can be achieved by using wax crayons and dye. Color designs onto the egg with the crayons, such as dots, lines or squiggles. When the eggs are dipped in the dye, the crayon will repel the dye and leave the designs in place. Those who don’t want to use dye with very young children can simply color in the eggs with the crayons.
6. ‘Egg’stra special designs can be made by using craft supplies to adorn the eggs. Make cute egg people or animals to display. How about an Easter bunny complete with cotton ball tail? Scour the craft store for stick-on jiggle eyes, fuzzy noses and more.
7. You can use regular acrylic paint to brush or sponge on designs. For safety’s sake, don’t eat any eggs that use a dye other than a natural food coloring .
8. Food and beverages can be used to create natural dyes. Boil eggs with beets, spinach, tea, blueberries and more to create the colors desired.
9. Use your imagination and rely on just about anything to make eggs dazzling. Glitter, markers, paints, stickers and so much more can help you to create one-of-a-kind eggs.

Hard-boil know-how
Of course eggs need to be hard-boiled before decorating. Place your eggs in a pot filled with cold water, covering the eggs. On medium-high heat, bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the eggs for approximately 10 minutes. Place the boiled eggs in cold water to cool before coloring. TF074272

(MS) — Black History Month, celebrated each February, is celebrated in both the United States and Canada. England holds their own Black History Month every October. In the United States, Black History Month was established in 1976, though this was simply an extension of Negro History Week, which was established by Carter G. Woodson 50 years earlier. Woodson chose a week in February that celebrated the birthdays of renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass and former president Abraham Lincoln, famous for introducing measures that led to the abolition of slavery after the U.S. Civil War. While Woodson is widely credited with starting what eventually became Black History Month, the origins of the celebration may have begun earlier in two movements that Woodson was involved with. A friend of Woodson's, Mary Church Terrell, had been honoring Douglass' birthday locally. In the meantime, Woodson was also affiliated with the African American collegiate fraternity Omega Phi Psi, which established Negro Achievement Week in 1924. Woodson's contribution was to broaden the celebration, making it more of a national event while inviting both blacks and whites to celebrate, hence the reason the week of Douglass' and Lincoln's birthdays was chosen. TF082468

(MS) — A leap year, also known as an intercalary year, is a year containing one or more extra days. The Gregorian calendar most cultures use today is synchronized to astronomical and seasonal events, including Earth’s movement around the sun. The average time between two successive vernal equinoxes (when the sun is directly over the equator) is called a tropical year, and it is about 365.2422 days long. By using a calendar with only 365 days each year an error of 0.2422 days or almost 6 hours per year would occur. After 100 years, the calendar would be more than 24 days ahead of the seasons — not at all acceptable. By adding an extra day to February, the month with the shortest number of days in the common calendar (calendar without a leap year), everything can be adjusted as closely as possible to the seasons. Leap years are typically inserted every 4th year and follow these three rules: 1) Every year divisible by 4 is a leap year. 2) Every year divisible by 100 is NOT a leap year. 3) Unless the year is also divisible by 400, then it is still a leap year. This year, 2008, is a leap year. TF082426

(MS) — On the heels of the holiday season comes a time when sweethearts exchange tokens of their love and affection. When it comes to Valentine’s Day gifting, men generally have the advantage: Buy her jewelry and she’s bound to be thrilled. But purchasing for men can prove challenging.
The primary rule of gifting men is to think about what they want, not necessarily what they need. Now is the time to show that special person in your life how much you care for him. Here are some Valentine’s Day gift ideas ideas to get you started.
Comfortable clothing: Pick out items that you know your man will love wearing. Although you may prefer him in a cashmere mock turtleneck sweater and trousers, if he is more of a ribbed henley and jeans sort of guy, go that route.
‘Scent’sational appeal: Even if they don’t want to admit it, most men know that smelling good definitely makes them more attractive to women. That’s why a gift of cologne will be appreciated. For years BRUT has been one of the best-selling fragrances on the market and a must-have wearable classic scent for men. Choose from the original fragrance, blending notes of lemon, anise, basil and lavender. Or try BRUT Revolution, a new cologne with a light, crisp citrus scent. You’ll want to snuggle up close to your man for the rest of the day while he’s smelling so appealing.
Electronic factor: What guy doesn’t go ga-ga over gadgets? Chances are if you come through with one of the latest flat-screen high-definition televisions you’ll be put up on a pedestal. Whether the man in your life likes watching sports, is a movie buff, or tunes in to those animal channel documentaries, a new TV will help him enjoy his hobbies even more. If a TV is a budget-buster, think of other “toys” he might enjoy: a navigation system for the car, an MP3 player, a PDA, or a video-game system are all good choices.
Interest and hobbies: Tickets to a game for the sports fan; knives or lures for the outdoorsman; new computer equipment for the techy — keep hobbies in mind when selecting gifts. They’ll make finding something he’ll love that much easier. Gifting men doesn’t have to be a mystery. Just keep in mind his likes and interests and you’ll achieve success. TF082611

(MS) — When it comes to Valentine’s Day, men are likely to spend almost twice as much as women when it comes to gifts for their special someone. A 2007 survey released by the National Retail Foundation indicated that men were planning to spend an average of $156 on Valentine’s Day, while women were planning on spending $85. Not surprisingly, flowers remain the most popular gift men plan to give women, with nearly 60 percent of male survey participants indicating they were going to be giving flowers. As far as gifts go, cards were a close second on the list of most popular gifts, while a night out on the town and candy rounded out the top four. With so much spending by both men and women, it’s no great surprise that spending on Valentine’s Day typically exceeds $15 billion annually. TF082460

Fabulous Gift Ideas to Please Foodies

(MS) — Key trends, such as today’s soaring demand for premium quality foods and beverages, and the increasing popularity of television cooking shows, have inspired a plethora of new products specially designed to please gourmet and cooking enthusiasts. To help navigate crowded store aisles, here is a short list of new and innovative gifts to consider:

Gifts for Connoisseurs of Chocolate, Coffee and Tea:
’Tis the season for chocolate! There’s nothing like a piping hot cup of hot chocolate to chase away a chill, and BonJour’s new Hot Chocolate Maker in pink also generously benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure ($40 retail). Complete with two matching pink cocoa mugs, the pink Hot Chocolate Maker presents a delicious opportunity to give to a worthy cause. (With each sale, $3.00 will be donated to Komen for the Cure with a minimum guaranteed donation of $30,000.)
Chocolate aficionados who like to entertain will be thrilled with the new and elegantly styled Chocolate Dipping Set from BonJour. Crafted of classic white ceramic to blend with any holiday table decor, a 20-ounce, microwave safe pot sits neatly on a stand over a tea light to keep chocolate warm and smooth for dipping. The set includes bowls to hold dip-ready foods and six stainless steel dipping forks ($30 retail). The set is a fun and interactive way to enjoy dessert tableside — from chocolate covered strawberries, to chocolate covered slices of banana, pound cake, marshmallows, and more.
Coffee connoisseurs prefer brewing their beverage in a French Press coffee maker, which allows for maximum coffee bean extraction and full-bodied, rich tasting coffee. Impress the coffee lover on your list with BonJour’s high-quality 8-cup Maximus French Press ($40 retail), which now comes in chic translucent metallic finishes, including a vibrant Candy Apple Red. For latte, cappuccino and mocha gourmet coffee fans, BonJour offers its new automatic Caffe Latte Frother ($20 retail). The powerful, battery-powered, hand-held frother whips milk in seconds to transform a regular cup of Joe into a café-style treat.
Tea lovers have no reason to feel left out in the cold. Today’s interest in health and relaxation has focused a spotlight on the benefits of tea. Delight an avid tea drinker with one of BonJour’s new hand-blown glass teapots featuring a removable infusion basket to brew loose tealeaves. The new Celeste Teapot Set ($60 retail) makes the complete gift as it includes a 32-ounce round teapot, creamer and sugar bowl with extra-long handled sugar spoon.

Culinary Gifts that Keep on Giving
Practical and thoughtful, cookware is a perennial favorite gift among culinary enthusiasts. Double the value of giving this season with the purchase of KitchenAid Cookware’s new Cook for the Cure Twin Pack Set, which includes a new 10-inch Round Griddle and 11-inch Round Grill Pan crafted in the cause’s iconic pink hue ($50 retail). With each purchase, $5.00 will be donated to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Following in the Foot Steps of Celebrity Cooks
Popular television cooking shows are drawing millions of Americans back into the kitchen, and one of the most influential stars leading this trend is Rachael Ray of Food Network fame. Inspire a novice cook, or please a diehard Rachael fan with a gift from the celebrity cook’s eponymous line of cookware and kitchen tools. New this fall is the Rachael Ray Enamel Cast-Iron 7-Quart Dutch Oven ($100 retail) — a generously sized round pot crafted in Rachael Ray’s three favorite colors — orange, blue and new for fall, green. If you’re looking for a fun stocking stuffer with a culinary theme, new Rachael Ray Tools come in affordable sets, such as the 2-Piece Pastry Brush Set, and 3-Piece Spoonula Set (cross between spoon and spatula, $15.00 each retail). Made of durable, heat-resistant nylon and easy to clean silicone, the tools come in all three colors, as well.

Essential Tools for the Budding Home Chef
Just as an artist needs the right equipment to be inspired to create, an aspiring cook requires a solid foundation of high-quality cookware and cutlery to master the art of cooking. Tap the inner chef of someone special on the gift list with a complete set of gourmet quality hard-anodized nonstick cookware. Anolon offers a well-designed 10-piece Anolon Advanced Cookware Set ($300 retail) with all the basic pots and pans needed to get cooking. Constructed to ensure fast and even heat distribution for best cooking results, the cookware features comfortable SureGrip handles on both the cookware and lids. Crafted from a combination of stainless steel and silicone rubber, the handles provide a soft, cool and confident grip.
An innovative gift for the budding home chef is the Infinite Circulon 6-Quart Covered Chef Pan ($70 retail). Recently introduced, Infinite Circulon is the first-ever hard-anodized nonstick cookware that is both dishwasher-safe and can be used on all types of ranges, including induction and glass cooktops. The generously sized, versatile Chef Pan is ideal for preparing stir-fries, and endless dishes that call for browning and sautéing vegetables, meats, poultry, and fish.
Good kitchen knives are another “must have” for home chefs. New this season is a collection of super-sharp knives with gleaming stainless steel handles from Anolon. The Anolon Stainless Steel Cutlery 3-Piece Chef Set ($50 retail) features a trio of indispensable knives no cook should be without: 8-inch Chef’s, 6-inch Utility and 3.5-inch Parer. Well balanced and comfortable to hold, the blades are made from a perfected composition of German high carbon stainless steel that is highly durable, retains its edge longer, and resists staining and rusting.

Sweet Gifts for the Baker and Holiday Hostess
For the person who loves to bake, there’s always room in the cupboard for another well-designed cookie sheet, cake pan, muffin tin, or loaf pan. Make it an extra-special gift by presenting the bakeware with a treat baked inside. For instance, arrive at a holiday party with the perfect hostess gift — a delicious cranberry walnut loaf cake beautifully baked in a new Circulon Bakeware 9- x 5-inch Loaf Pan ($13 retail). The Circulon Bakeware features the brand’s signature long-lasting Total nonstick food release system and is made of heavy gauge carbon steel to prevent bending and warping.
Holiday gifts for the food-minded are plentiful and tempting this season. Learn more about the items mentioned online: www.bonjourproducts.com, www.anolon.com, www.kitchenaidcookware.com, www.circulon.com, and www.rachaelray.com. TF082619

(MS) — Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a joyful time each February. However, when it comes to finding the right gift for the men in your life, be it a son or a husband, women can end up more frazzled than festive. With so many gadgets and gizmos coming onto the market each year, how can you ensure your gift will be unique and not a run-of-the-mill item you picked up on the fly or that they already have?
Sports collectibles make an interesting gift for any loved one who is a sports fanatic or even those who have a passing interest in sports. Whether you’re buying for a son whose room looks like he raided a stadium locker room or a husband who spends more Sundays watching “the game” than mowing the lawn, a sports-related item is a thoughtful, unexpected — and generally inexpensive — gift idea.
Authentic Sports Collectibles, and its informative, and easy-to-browse Web site www.ascollect.com, makes finding that perfect gift easy. Whether you’re short on time, or would simply prefer to do your shopping from the comforts of hom, simply look through the offerings on the site, and in a few clicks, you’ll have a special piece of sports history delivered for the ones you love.
Choose from among autographed mementos, photos, licensed apparel and more. Authentic Sports Collectibles carries items from your favorite sports teams and covers all major sporting activities: baseball, football, basketball, golf, tennis and boxing. Each collectible comes with a certificate of authenticity. What makes these gifts special is that they give the recipient a unique link to the sports personality. Plus, these items can accrue in value over the years, and can be passed on to loved ones in time.
To learn more about sports-related gifts ideas for those on your Valentine’s shopping list, visit www.ascollect.com. TF082620

By logging on to www.ascol-
lect.com, you can purchase sports-related gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list.

(MS) — It seems as though it gets harder and harder to find that perfect gift for the handyman (or woman) in your life. Fortunately, finding that gift doesn’t need to be so hard, as the recent boom in do-it-yourself home improvements has created a wealth of new ideas.
Consider the following gift ideas for the do-it-yourselfer in your family, courtesy of Woodcraft.
* The gift that keeps on giving. One of the most popular gifts is a magazine subscription to a favorite magazine. To gift givers, magazine subscriptions are popular because they’re pretty inexpensive. To the gift receiver, magazines are the gift that keeps on giving. Whether the magazines comes one every two months, once a month, bi-monthly, or once a week, the handy man of the house will love the wealth of new information it provides throughout the year. A yearly subscription to Woodcraft Magazine provides six issues per year, and offers a host of season-appropriate articles and tips on do-it-yourself projects.
* Make the math a little easier. Nearly every do-it-yourselfer runs into problems stemming from incorrect calculations when cutting angles. A Starrett® Pro Site Protractor takes those errors out of the equation. With two scales, a red scale and arrow that show the angle for a miter joint, and a black scale and arrows that provide the angle to fit a single workpiece to an angle, making miter cut calculations has never been easier. You can even choose from two models, the full-sized 12-inch or compact 7-inch, both of which boast machined aluminum legs with an adjustable friction pivot.
* For the multi-tasker. For the jack of all trades do-it-yourselfer, finding the right gift can be a major hassle. The new Fein MultiMaster could be just the thing. Because no two DIY projects are the same, the MultiMaster uses a broad assortment of accessory blades to handle sanding, scraping and hundreds of previously “manual” tasks. Gone are the days of sanding tight spaces with paper, as the MultiMaster’s profiled sanding pads make the job far less “hands-on.”
Thanks to the booming DIY movement, finding that perfect gift for the do-it-yourselfer in your family has never been easier. If you find yourself struggling with a decision, you can even give a Woodcraft gift card so the family handy man (or woman) can make the decision themselves. For more products and inspiration, visit www.woodcraft.com. TF082621