Have you ever heard the expression, “Let cool heads prevail?”  Well, yours can be the cool — and safe — head in an emergency, if you plan for that unforeseen situation.  Here’s how to do that: For power outages, such as those caused by thunderstorms and snowstorms: 1.       Maintain a supply of fresh batteries as […]

For a society that put men on the moon and connected the entire world with a little invention called the Internet, our progress has only gone so far; we still cling tightly to our traditions.  Superstition in all its guises represents one of those traditions.  If you’re saying, “Not me!” you may want to examine […]

The longer that we remain in the same place of employment, the deeper we sink into that comfort zone that can, in the end, be anything but comfortable.  If the old phrase “Familiarity breeds contempt” sounds familiar, consider how that might translate into the workforce.   Your employer might share off-color jokes that make you squirm, delve […]

Engendering terror and pathos, earthiness and mysticism, the mythical vampire has long held the fascination of readers, TV viewers, and film buffs of all ages.  Our society so embraces the vampire that we continue to promote his evolution and the lore that surrounds him.   Inarguably, Bela Lugosi’s riveting portrayal in the 1931 film Dracula sparked […]

“Marriage is an institution, but who wants to live in an institution?”   The old joke aside, I am astounded that marriage continues as a custom of our society.  Even if a husband and wife hail from the same cultural background and the same generation, their differences must far outweigh their similarities.  They will have […]

Let’s face it: the truly great moments in life are all too rare and precious.  So when such a moment comes along, as it did via the surreal medium of reality TV, it is that much sweeter. September 15, 2009 saw the end of Luke’s search for the perfect wife on More to Love.  So […]

American Idol‘s latest battle for ratings has claimed a major casualty, a road warrior of an entertainer who, despite her arguable lack of talent, has endeared herself to millions tuning in year after year to watch and drive the nation’s largest singing competition.  Paula Abdul’s sweet, familiar face, non-sequitor comments, and genteel criticism will no […]