Game On! The Cost of Being your Team’s Biggest Fan

Posted on January 30, 2014 by Krissyar

Being loyal a loyal fan can cost some serious cash. We aren’t saying these costs aren’t worth it, for many these costs are non-negotiable and are just part of supporting your team. Finding out how much you spent last year on your favorite sports team, or teams, can be surprising. Some of the most popular sports-related expenses are detailed below. To figure out how much an average sports fan would spend annually, we can take a look as common costs that most fans splurge on throughout the year below.

Apparel

A shirt, two hats and maybe some gifts for the wife and kids can run about $300-500 a year. Sports memorabilia such as signed balls and bats are still around, but sports team apparel is the hot ticket these days. Sports teams have branched out to women, children, babies and even pets to allow fans of all shapes and sizes to show their loyalty. With so many options, it can be almost impossible to pass by the apparel kiosks without picking something up. The good news is clothing isn’t something reserved for game day or at an event. You can show off your fun team purchases all season.

Tickets

Two to three baseball games or one or two football games can on average cost close to $500-$1000 a year. Going to sports games is the ultimate for hard core fans. The cost really add up for one day out, but for most fans is a special event. If you are attending just a regular season basket ball or baseball game with tickets at around $20-30, you need to factor in parking, food, and drinks. Football tickets on their own can run for about $75-100 for basic seating and can add up fast.

Sports Bar Tabs

Four to five games out with friends to watch the game can cost about $100 to 200 a year. If you can’t make it to the actual game, rallying with others at a sports bar can be fun and really pump you up for your sports team. In theory, this seems like you might save a buck or two by heading to your local watering hole, but after endless pitchers, chicken wings and fries for hours, it can really add up.

Cable

Monthly Costs for basic cable and possibly a sports package will be about $300-500 a year. Having your buddies over to watch the game is pretty much expected. These days, you must have access to the right networks, and sometimes even a season pass to a specific sport to tune in to your teams. Ranging from a basic cable package to premium all access channels in HD, this is a cost that every sports fan will pay up for in order to ensure they can watch their teams with up to the minute coverage.

Adding up these basic costs will run you at spending about $1,500 a year, on average. Of course, if you are flying to Hawaii for golf tournaments, or score seats to the Superbowl, these costs will go way up. But for average Americans, this average chunk of change adds up fast. The bottom line is if you can afford it, and you are having fun, why not treat yourself to supporting your team. It does add up but if you are loving every minute of and sports is very much a part of your life, then keep doing what you love!

Sarah writes about sports for all pro and loves watching all the games.

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Top 10 Expert Tips For Back Pain

Posted on January 30, 2014 by Krissyar

If you’re like most people, you have a back – and that back gets painful every now and then.  Ok, so we’re joking a little but it’s to make a point.  Back pain is something we all experience some time in our lives.  We all try different remedies to treat it.  Some soak in a tub with Epsom salts, others get a massage while many just rely on drugs to treat the pain.  Well our experts have scoured the web, read reviews, researched articles and have compiled our Top 10 Expert Tips list for back pain, and here it is!

10. Stay OUT of Bed

Contrary to what may seem natural, limiting bed rest may actually be the best thing for a bad back!  Studies have shown that the average person with short-term lower back pain usually feels better with less rest and MORE activity.  “Patients should avoid more than three days of bed rest,” says Dr. Mike Flippin, MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon at San Diego Medical Center.

9. Accessories Matter

This may be the oddest one on the list but how you accessorize your outfit in the morning can to a long way toward the health of your back.  Sitting on a thick wallet shifts your pelvis upward on one side which tweaks your vertebrae and causes pain over time.  Carrying a heavy purse, backpack or briefcase on the same shoulder every day has the same affect on your upper back and neck.  So take a tip from the minimalists of society; switch to a thinner wallet or e-wallet and try carrying a tablet instead of a laptop to reduce weight.

8. Don’t Ignore It

When it comes to back pain of any kind, if it lasts for more than 3 days, don’t ignore it.  Also, don’t go to your general doctor or chiropractor.  Go to an expert who has actually seen all the components of the back from the inside.  Get a consultation with an Orthopedic surgeon.  They will be able to determine if a serious issue exists such as a herniated disc, spinal bone spur or some other ailment.  These specialists are the best ones to help prevent further damage and get you on the road to recovery sooner.

7. Work It Out

As with every part of the body, regular exercise does wonders.  But don’t just grab those dumbbells and start pumping out rows right away.  Perform some simple back stretching exercises first and get your body warmed up on a treadmill before hitting the weights.  When stretching, stick with ballistic style stretches which incorporate movement and ease your muscles into activity versus static stretching which can cause damage to your back and impact your workout.

6. Lube It Up

There are a whole host of natural supplements on the market which can go a long way to helping you have a healthier back.  For instance glucosamine has been shown to ease joint movement and provide greater fluidity.  Calcium and magnesium go a long way to keeping your bones and cartilage healthy.  Not into popping pills? arnica gels and creams can also be very helpful when applied topically to the area.  Keep your back in tip-top shape and you’ll be moving easier and take less time to recover when having back pain.

5. Hippie Tips

Into the natural healing powers of Mother Earth? Then white willow bark and devil’s claw are the way to go for pain relief.  Both of these herbs can be readily found at a natural health food store and work to relieve pain and decrease inflammation.

4. Drop The Smokes

Not only does smoking impact your lungs, skin, blood and pretty much every other part of your body, it has been shown to restrict blood flow to the spinal discs which leads to hemorrhaging of their protective fluids.  When this happens your spinal vertebrae grind together and pinch the nerves that flow between them, causing severe back pain which often can only be corrected through surgery.  So if you’re smoking, stop.

3. Nun Smack

Remember the old time movies where the nun would smack the kid with a ruler for slouching?  Well Sister Mary Ruler Smacker was onto something.  Maintaining proper posture keeps your spine in its proper shape and position, allowing healthy blood and electrical flow to your entire body.  If you’ve seen seniors at the grocery store walking around like Quasimodo with a giant hump, chances are high that they slouched a lot during their working years.

2. Take That Gravity

The biggest enemy we have our entire lives (as far as our back is concerned) is gravity.  The force that keeps us on the planet is also wrenching away at our back day in and day out.  Put gravity to use in the opposite direction by getting an inversion table.  These little gadgets are great for allowing you to safely flip upside down in a standing position, letting the weight of your body uncompress your spinal column.  Read reviews before you buy as there are literally over a hundred of these tables on the market and they’re not all created equally.

1. Chill Out

Not only is stress the #1 secret killer in America, it also plays a huge factor in back pain.  When you’re stressed your muscles tighten up, your lymphatic fluids back up and your whole body hurts.  Whatever you do to relax, be sure to make time for it this week.  It will go a long way to relieving your pain.

Dr. Scott Katzman is a graduate of the Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia and is a board certified Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in spinal surgeries.

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#Win a $100 Visa Gift Card – Ends 2/11

Posted on January 28, 2014 by Krissyar

Time for another giveaway! You guys know I love entering contests, and I love sharing them for my reader’s to win as well!
Who could use $100??!!

#Visa #giftcard #giveaway #sweeps #contest #win #money

 Thanks to the folks over at Virtualphone-number.com, you have the chance to win this $100 Visa Gift Card through February 11, 2014.

Have you heard of Virtualphone-number.com?

What is a Virtual Phone Number?

In short, a virtual number is a phone number that directs communication through an internet connection rather than a tradition locked line. In this way, virtual numbers are designed to accommodate the specific needs of both caller and the receiver.
These numbers facilitate communication internationally, without added charges, and consolidates everything from call forwarding to PBX service into a simple online management system.

A Virtual Phone Number Will Help You Attract New Customers:

Unlike land-lines, virtual numbers do not have set identified locations.  Wherever in the world the customer is calling from, they can access a virtual number by simply dialing locally.   This avoids extra international charges and brings a sense of familiarity to your company’s brand.

Who Uses a Virtual Phone Number?

EVERY business can utilize the benefits of the virtual number. They provide equal value to small start-ups just as much as large corporations. Hotels, resorts, IT and BPO professionals, advertising/creative agencies, web-based businesses, travel agencies, and airlines use virtual numbers to extend their reach.

If a company in Chicago wants to expand its business in Los Angeles, it can get a virtual phone number with a toll free or local prefix code to enable call forwarding to a location of its choice.  Both the caller in Los Angeles and the operator in Chicago will interact with as if it was a local call.  The same can be applied to calls from New York to London, or San Francisco to Hong Kong.  Any company with business stretching beyond its geographical location benefits from switching to a virtual phone number.

 

Being in an office myself, our virtual phone number has helped us keep clients happy, as well as not miss out on new business! Ever had a day when a few co-workers were out sick, and you were alone in the office manning the phones? With a virtual phone, after a few rings you can have it forwarded to another office – even if it’s in another state. No one likes to get voice mail – and this helps keep our customers happy. Get a 1 800 number now, and keep your business going!

 

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5 Common Divorce Myths Debunked By Divorce Lawyer

Posted on January 28, 2014 by Krissyar

Divorce is a pretty ominous word that immediately paints a picture of fighting, separation, and horrible scenarios in our heads. While nobody gets married with the thought of ever getting divorced, there are a number of common myths that experienced divorce lawyers are asked on a daily basis.

The following are a few divorce myths that, while they may have some merit, are simply exaggerations that should be debunked:

Common Divorce Myth #1: The kids are alright.

If you and your spouse are not getting along, many believe that your children may be better off if you just “bite the bullet” and get a divorce.

Reality: While marital unhappiness may have a negative impact on your child’s well-being and daily life, going through a divorce may have similar or even worse consequences. Even though children caught in the middle of a “high-conflict” marriage may benefit from a divorce (parents will be separated and the hostility, arguments, etc. will inherently be lowered), those children caught in the middle of a “low-conflict” marriages, divorce may lead to long-term negative consequences for your child.

Common Divorce Myth #2: Men most commonly initiate Divorces.

Reality: According to a study done by the American Association of Retired People (AARP), approximately 66% of all midlife divorces (ages 40-79) are initiated by women and the most common reasons women gave for divorce was verbal abuse and emotional neglect from their husbands.

Common Divorce Myth #3: All ex-wives get alimony.

Reality: While every state has its own laws regarding alimony, spousal support, and/or alimony pendente lite (APL), in Pennsylvania for example, alimony may be awarded to either party if the court finds that it is necessary based on factors such as the relative earnings and earning capacities of the parties, the length of the marriage, or the extent to which a party’s earning power, expense or financial obligations will be affected by serving as the custodian of a minor child. The purpose of alimony is to provide either spouse with the lifestyle he or she had throughout the marriage.

Common Divorce Myth #4: The husband never gets custody of children.

Reality: This is a widely held belief that divorce lawyers must debunk. Many people think that mothers should always get custody, however legally, though, that’s not the case. Even though courts have historically granted primary physical custody of the child to the mother, many courts are now focusing more and more on the “best interests of the child” and less on bias and presumptions. Even if the mom is the child’s primary caregiver throughout the marriage, both parents are entitled to equal time with the kids in most states and if a judge doesn’t deem that the mother meets the standards for being a fit parent, she won’t be awarded primary custody.

Common Divorce Myth #5: If property is mine, it’s mine.

Reality: Many believe that if certain property stays in their name throughout their marriage, such property will be their property alone after the divorce is settled. As stated above, every state’s divorce laws are different, especially regarding the division of property, but for the most part, assets owned by one spouse before the marriage or held in one spouse’s name alone (typically including inheritance, gifts, or any specific property obtained before the marriage) are considered non-marital property. That being said, if non-marital property increases in value during the marriage, is mingled with marital property, or is used for the benefit of both spouses, such property may be deemed marital property subject to distribution following a divorce.

Most divorce lawyers will tell you that the biggest factor that determines how marital property is divided, is whether your state follows community property or equitable distribution rules. In a community property state, marital property is typically split 50/50. A court will add up the total value of your marital estate and will grant each spouse an equal percentage.

By contrast, divorce state laws like that of Pennsylvania’s allow equitable distribution. Equitable distribution is the equitable, or fair, division of all marital property between the parties by the court in such percentages and in such manner as the court deems just. This means that in Pennsylvania, a judge will look at all of the marital property and will decide on what the judge feels is a fair distribution, which may or may not be equal.

Image Credit: Ed Yourdon

Jason B. Martin, Esquire is a Pennsylvania divorce lawyer and the founder of The Martin Law Firm, P.C., located in Blue Bell, PA. Jason is also a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and serves as outside General Counsel to the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association. To read more of Jason’s work, visit www.jbmartinlaw.com/blogs/family-law.

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EmbarK¹² Family of Preschool Programs by K12

Posted on January 27, 2014 by Krissyar

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of K12, the leader in online education for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

A new, innovative one-year program for children ages 3 through 5, EmbarK¹² combines engaging interactive online lessons with hands-on learning materials, activities, and high-quality children’s literature.

A Proven Program

Already successfully used by national childcare and education provider KinderCare Learning Centers, EmbarK¹² offers more than 1,200 fun, flexible learning experiences that engage young minds through interactive multimedia and online and offline activities.

Aligned to Standards / Research-Based

The EmbarK¹² program is aligned with Common Core and essential concepts of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and Core Knowledge Foundation, as well as national and state standards (where available).

The program was developed based on research from the National Research Council, American Psychological Association, National Reading Panel, National Math Panel, and American Educational Research Association.

How It Works

 

Young children delight in the world around them. They want to explore that world, express themselves, and connect with others. At the same time, they easily embrace exciting 21st-century technology. To meet children where they are, the building blocks of EmbarK¹² combine engaging interactive online lessons with hands-on learning materials, activities, and high-quality children’s literature.

Kindergarten readiness programs by K12. Try a sample activity today.

Online Curriculum

  • The curriculum includes 18 themes relevant to young children, such as "Family and Friends," "My Five Senses," and "Looking at Animals."
  • In each theme, the instructor and students will explore six subjects: language arts, math, science, social studies, art, and music.
  • Each subject comes alive through hundreds of online and offline activities.

The program is flexible, so the instructors can decide which themes, subjects, and activities they would like to delve into, or they can follow the curriculum sequentially. See our course outline.

Hands-On Materials

  • Unique EmbarK¹² flash cards that complement lessons provide visual cues for letters, words, numbers, shapes, colors, and more, as well as American Sign Language hand signs.
  • Well-known children's books, such as Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and The Little Engine That Could, help reinforce the concepts in each theme.
  • Manipulatives help develop dexterity and strength in small hands and encourage kinesthetic learning.

EmbarK12 Online – Over 830 interactive activities to engage your preschooler.

“We use Aventa for transfer students, scheduling conflicts, or to get military or government families up to speed after they arrive. It keeps them on pace with their academic career.”

Janis Streich
Dir. of Instructional Technology and Professional Learning
Spotsylvania County Public Schools, Virginia

EmbarK12 Comprehensive- Online and hands-on preschool program for your early learner.

 

 

Use this special discount code: EmbarkSpecial for  50% discount on EmbarK¹² Online available for only 7 days!!  (Normally $59 for a 12-month subscription; $29.50 with discount)

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