Ready In An Emergency

It’s always a good idea to have an emergency preparedness kit ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Some items are standard, regardless of who you are or where you live, such as a flashlight, first aid kit, and multi-purpose tool. Consider the specific needs of those in your family and geographical location as well. Find pre-made lists and help in building an emergency kit at ready.gov/kit and redcross.org.

Negotiation on the Job

Would you like to improve your job negotiation skills? A recent survey conducted by the Society of Human Resources Management and CareerJournal.com, found that both employees and HR specialists are willing to talk about salary, but they differ on other issues. Employees focus on bonuses, incentives, and time off, while HR specialists may be more willing to talk about flex schedules and relocation costs. (The survey indicated employees may have more negotiating power on non-salary issues.) Here are six valuable tips you can use for better negotiating on your job: • Make sure to show your enthusiasm for the job at hand. • Know your strengths and skills and explain why you’re the best person for the new job or raise. • Use the right words and cite facts, “I’ve done the research, and the market reflects this salary.” • Ask for what you want, and explain why you deserve it. • Be open to what is presented and remain objective. • Avoid talking about specific salary figures until the end the interview process; otherwise you may limit your options.

Stronger Family Bonds

The good news is there are quick and easy ways to strengthen your family and promote each other’s personal growth. 1. Make Family Your First Priority. Strong families spend lots of quality time together. We’ve all heard the well-known quote, “How do kids spell love?” T-I-M-E! Strong families spend lots of positive time working on family projects and playing together. 2. Appreciate One Other. Strong families appreciate each other’s unique qualities and contributions and express their feelings openly. Make a commitment to compliment each other at least once each day. 3. Foster Communication. Strong families listen to each other, respect each other’s opinions, and avoid interrupting. One of the most valuable ways to foster communication is by having at least one meal together each day. Do your best to set an example by putting away your phone or computer during meal time. 4. Strengthen Commitment. Strong families work together to solve their problems. They may not always agree, but they are willing and able to bring things out into the open and to talk about them. 5. Create Traditions. Strong families stay connected – another reason for having at least one meal together each day. Also, give your children the gift of friendship with their cousins, aunts, and uncles by keeping in touch regularly. 6. Set Rules and Expectations. Strong families set and put into practice clear guidelines and limitations. Family members take responsibility for their actions. Give grace and grace will follow.

Paramount Theater Tours

The Paramount opened in 1928 and welcomes over 450,000 patrons each year. The Paramount was restored to its original splendor in 1995 after many years of neglect and deferred maintenance. Enjoy a free tour of this historic theater the first Saturday of every month from 10:00am to noon. No appointment needed, just show up in front of the theater a few minutes early and enjoy a glimpse behind the scenes. www.stgpresents.org

Lake Washington Trivia

Prior to the construction of the Lake Washinton Ship Canal in 1916 the lake was drained by the Black River at the south end of the lake. The level of the lake dropped 9 feet with the opening of the canal and the Black River dried up. Today part of its bed forms the Black River Riparian Forest and Wetland.

This American Life

It is a weekly hour-long production that I rarely miss. When I am on a walk, on a long drive, or working on the landscaping at Arbor Heights Community Church I enjoy the wide variety of topics and love the style of narration. They have put out over 800 shows, and all are available on your favorite podcast platform.

Cleaning With Cola

Did you know the cola in your fridge is also a great household cleaner? Here are some everyday uses for it: • Remove rust stains by scrubbing with cola using aluminum foil, then wipe clean. • Remove oil stains from pavement by soaking them in cola for 15 minutes, then scrubbing. • Remove gum from surfaces by soaking it with cola for a few minutes, then scraping it with a blunt knife.