CHICAGO, Oct. 5 - They lurk in the dark in your kitchen, your living room and even your bedroom while you sleep. They look like little glowing red fangs, on televisions, game consoles and other household electronics and appliances. You may know them as standby lights, but ComEd wants you to be aware that these lights are pesky little energy stealers also known as power vampires.
Here's a scary thought: power vampires draw small amounts of electricity whether your electronic device is on or off. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average U.S. household spends $100 per year to power electronics and appliances while they are off or in standby mode.
"Many of the most common home electronics, such as computers and some kitchen appliances, are the biggest energy guzzlers," said Val Jensen, vice president, Marketing and Environmental Programs, ComEd. "These electronics waste energy when they are left plugged in and can add up to 10 percent to your monthly electric bill."
ComEd wants to ensure its customers are aware of power vampires and how they can slay them to better manage their energy usage and save money.
This fall, the utility will feature a series of advertisements warning customers of these power hungry creatures. In addition, from Oct. 15-31, ComEd customers can visit the Brookfield and Lincoln Park zoos to peek inside the company's "shadowboxes," which will reveal tips on how to banish these electric-sucking nightmares from their homes forever:
Use a power strip with an on/off switch to fully power down home electronics while in standby mode.
Use a power strip for multiple battery chargers so it can be easily switched off when not actively charging.
Unplug or switch off all nonessential devices when preparing to travel out of town.
Unplug your charger for your cordless phone, portable music play or other portable device after its recharged.
Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips and turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power). However, while unplugging DVRs can save money, they will not be able to record programs while turned off and program scheduling may need to be reset when turned back on.
Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use. Alternatively, set to hibernation or sleep mode rather than using screen savers, which do not save as much energy.
Look for the ENERGY STAR® label on home appliances, electronics and other products. ENERGY STAR® products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Realtors Report Home Prices On Staten Island Are Climbing
Survey of June, July and August reveals 'Days on Market' dropped nearly 4 percent as compared to the same period a year ago
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y., Oct. 5 - The cost of buying a home on Staten Island is inching up.
The borough's home prices rose over the summer, when compared to the same period last year, according to the latest report from the Staten Island Board of Realtors (SIBOR).
The median price of a home in the borough for the rolling average of June, July and August was $390,000, which was 5.4 percent higher than the same period in 2009.
The report additionally indicates that the number of homes sold on the Island was almost unchanged, but that the "Days on Market" went down nearly 4 percent.
"While this activity is still very much a remnant of the 2010 federal tax credit that expired in April, continued record low mortgage rates, that surely won't last forever, should signal to buyers and sellers that the time to complete a transaction for qualified buyers and motivated sellers is now," said Sandy Krueger, CEO of SIBOR.
According to SIBOR's year-to-date statistics, the Island experienced a 9.2 percent increase in home sales this year in comparison to 2009.
"There is no way to time a market. The best time to buy is when you find the property that best meets your needs," Krueger said.
Recent lender disclosures in the foreclosure environment and changing mortgage guidelines make attempts at timing ever more difficult, he added.
"What is most valuable today for buyers and sellers is someone who can interpret the volumes of changing statistics and guidelines and provide a roadmap to a successful transaction."
The statewide housing market also experienced strong median price growth compared to August 2009, according to the preliminary single-family sales data accumulated by the New York State Association of REALTORS.
The state's August 2010 median sales price of $240,000 represents an increase of 9.1 percent compared to the July 2010 median of $220,000, and an increase of 20 percent from the August 2009 median of $200,000.
Sales within the state increased in August from July by 3.7 percent, but remained 30-percent below the August 2009 total.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y., Oct. 5 - The cost of buying a home on Staten Island is inching up.
The borough's home prices rose over the summer, when compared to the same period last year, according to the latest report from the Staten Island Board of Realtors (SIBOR).
The median price of a home in the borough for the rolling average of June, July and August was $390,000, which was 5.4 percent higher than the same period in 2009.
The report additionally indicates that the number of homes sold on the Island was almost unchanged, but that the "Days on Market" went down nearly 4 percent.
"While this activity is still very much a remnant of the 2010 federal tax credit that expired in April, continued record low mortgage rates, that surely won't last forever, should signal to buyers and sellers that the time to complete a transaction for qualified buyers and motivated sellers is now," said Sandy Krueger, CEO of SIBOR.
According to SIBOR's year-to-date statistics, the Island experienced a 9.2 percent increase in home sales this year in comparison to 2009.
"There is no way to time a market. The best time to buy is when you find the property that best meets your needs," Krueger said.
Recent lender disclosures in the foreclosure environment and changing mortgage guidelines make attempts at timing ever more difficult, he added.
"What is most valuable today for buyers and sellers is someone who can interpret the volumes of changing statistics and guidelines and provide a roadmap to a successful transaction."
The statewide housing market also experienced strong median price growth compared to August 2009, according to the preliminary single-family sales data accumulated by the New York State Association of REALTORS.
The state's August 2010 median sales price of $240,000 represents an increase of 9.1 percent compared to the July 2010 median of $220,000, and an increase of 20 percent from the August 2009 median of $200,000.
Sales within the state increased in August from July by 3.7 percent, but remained 30-percent below the August 2009 total.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Forgotten Women Targeted with Ground Breaking Campaign
LONDON, Sept. 29 - Debenhams breaks yet another fashion industry taboo, becoming the first retailer to launch a campaign featuring models in their 40s, 50s and 60s to target 'forgotten women' rather than using models under 25 who usually dominate high fashion and high street imagery.
The campaign, which the retailer is calling 'The Style List' is an industry first and sees Debenhams joining forces with fashion commentator and diversity campaigner Caryn Franklin.
The Style List will give ongoing solutions, advice and guidance on how women 40+ can achieve any desired look, whether it be evening, day or weekend wear. This will be delivered in stores, online and through photography used by Debenhams.
There are three looks highlighted in the launch campaign; Power Dress, All Woman and Casual Cool. Windows will convey each look along with tips in how to make them work for everyone, whatever their age, from expert Caryn.
"The days are long gone when hitting 50 meant you were relegated to dowdy cardigans and baggy knits. This group of women aren't communicated to by the fashion press and retailers with models of their own age. We wanted to be the first to put this right," said Michael Sharp, Debenhams deputy chief executive.
"Today's 40 + women can easily achieve fashionability and enjoy trends traditionally worn by consumers half their age. Through The Style List we will be the only retailer on the high street showing them how," added Mr. Sharp.
Caryn Franklin, fashion commentator and campaigner for diversity, said: "I wanted to work with a retailer who would acknowledge the lack of good fashion imagery aimed at middle aged and older women and was ready to change things.
"It's a business savvy move -- Debenhams have great designer product and an excellent personal shopping service, so they are perfectly placed.
"It's been really fulfilling to create shots that celebrate the wonder of getting older. It's important to challenge what we see in our media with a broader reflection of beauty. Enjoy the magic of these women, their confidence, their attitudes and their allure. These wonderful faces express the joy of getting older -- not something we see enough of."
The ground breaking imagery features fashion advice at street level, along with mannequins and product in a how-to window display to launch The Style List.
Debenhams will shortly begin a nationwide search for a fourth face to join The Style List model line-up later this autumn.
Through its use of photography both online, in windows and in advertising, Debenhams is the UK's only retailer to commit to reflecting its diverse customer base through representative imagery.
The move comes as a next step for Debenhams, who have been trailblazing inclusivity campaigns of late, carrying out activity involving national window campaigns featuring disabled model Shannon Murray, un-airbrushed swim models, size 16 mannequins and plus size and petite models -- all since the start of 2010.
The retailer hopes the launch of The Style List will alert other retailers to the needs and wants of this seemingly overlooked market of fashion savvy shoppers, and spur them to follow suit.
The images can be seen in Debenhams' Oxford Street windows and online at Debenhams.com with further activity scheduled in all stores across the UK and Ireland.
The campaign, which the retailer is calling 'The Style List' is an industry first and sees Debenhams joining forces with fashion commentator and diversity campaigner Caryn Franklin.
The Style List will give ongoing solutions, advice and guidance on how women 40+ can achieve any desired look, whether it be evening, day or weekend wear. This will be delivered in stores, online and through photography used by Debenhams.
There are three looks highlighted in the launch campaign; Power Dress, All Woman and Casual Cool. Windows will convey each look along with tips in how to make them work for everyone, whatever their age, from expert Caryn.
"The days are long gone when hitting 50 meant you were relegated to dowdy cardigans and baggy knits. This group of women aren't communicated to by the fashion press and retailers with models of their own age. We wanted to be the first to put this right," said Michael Sharp, Debenhams deputy chief executive.
"Today's 40 + women can easily achieve fashionability and enjoy trends traditionally worn by consumers half their age. Through The Style List we will be the only retailer on the high street showing them how," added Mr. Sharp.
Caryn Franklin, fashion commentator and campaigner for diversity, said: "I wanted to work with a retailer who would acknowledge the lack of good fashion imagery aimed at middle aged and older women and was ready to change things.
"It's a business savvy move -- Debenhams have great designer product and an excellent personal shopping service, so they are perfectly placed.
"It's been really fulfilling to create shots that celebrate the wonder of getting older. It's important to challenge what we see in our media with a broader reflection of beauty. Enjoy the magic of these women, their confidence, their attitudes and their allure. These wonderful faces express the joy of getting older -- not something we see enough of."
The ground breaking imagery features fashion advice at street level, along with mannequins and product in a how-to window display to launch The Style List.
Debenhams will shortly begin a nationwide search for a fourth face to join The Style List model line-up later this autumn.
Through its use of photography both online, in windows and in advertising, Debenhams is the UK's only retailer to commit to reflecting its diverse customer base through representative imagery.
The move comes as a next step for Debenhams, who have been trailblazing inclusivity campaigns of late, carrying out activity involving national window campaigns featuring disabled model Shannon Murray, un-airbrushed swim models, size 16 mannequins and plus size and petite models -- all since the start of 2010.
The retailer hopes the launch of The Style List will alert other retailers to the needs and wants of this seemingly overlooked market of fashion savvy shoppers, and spur them to follow suit.
The images can be seen in Debenhams' Oxford Street windows and online at Debenhams.com with further activity scheduled in all stores across the UK and Ireland.
Webster University Celebrates Early Completion of $100,000 Walker Challenge
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 29 - Webster University has exceeded its goal of matching a $100,000 challenge gift from George Herbert Walker III for the George Herbert Walker III International Study Award. Through a challenge gift made by Ambassador Walker, Webster University has raised more than $230,000 to benefit business students who aspire to add an international component to their global educational experience but lack the necessary financial resources.
"We are thrilled that Ambassador Walker has made available funds to allow more students from the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology to have an international study experience," said Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble, president of Webster University. "Support of the Walker Challenge from Webster alumni and friends has been overwhelming. Exceeding our goal three months before the challenge ended underscores our community's outpouring of support for Ambassador Walker and his steadfast endorsement of Webster University's exceptional model of global education."
Dr. Benjamin Ola. Akande, dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology commented, "Ambassador Walker is the type of leader we wish to set forth as an example for our students. Our mission is only half accomplished if we simply graduate well-educated business people. We must be equally focused on the type of business people they'll become – global citizens who do well by doing good. I can think of no finer example of that than Ambassador Walker."
Ambassador Walker joined the University's Board of Trustees in 1974 and served as board chairman twice – from 1987 to 1992, and again from 2008 to 2009. He was named a Life Trustee of the University in 2003 and also served for many years as chairman of the advisory board of Webster's school of business. In April 2010, Webster University named its business school the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology, to honor the former U.S. ambassador to Hungary, philanthropist, civic leader and longtime Webster supporter.
"We are thrilled that Ambassador Walker has made available funds to allow more students from the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology to have an international study experience," said Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble, president of Webster University. "Support of the Walker Challenge from Webster alumni and friends has been overwhelming. Exceeding our goal three months before the challenge ended underscores our community's outpouring of support for Ambassador Walker and his steadfast endorsement of Webster University's exceptional model of global education."
Dr. Benjamin Ola. Akande, dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology commented, "Ambassador Walker is the type of leader we wish to set forth as an example for our students. Our mission is only half accomplished if we simply graduate well-educated business people. We must be equally focused on the type of business people they'll become – global citizens who do well by doing good. I can think of no finer example of that than Ambassador Walker."
Ambassador Walker joined the University's Board of Trustees in 1974 and served as board chairman twice – from 1987 to 1992, and again from 2008 to 2009. He was named a Life Trustee of the University in 2003 and also served for many years as chairman of the advisory board of Webster's school of business. In April 2010, Webster University named its business school the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology, to honor the former U.S. ambassador to Hungary, philanthropist, civic leader and longtime Webster supporter.
Deaths Prompt CPSC, FDA Warning on Infant Sleep Positioners
WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today warned consumers to stop using infant sleep positioners. Over the past 13 years, CPSC and the FDA have received 12 reports of infants between the ages of 1 month and 4 months who died when they suffocated in sleep positioners or became trapped and suffocated between a sleep positioner and the side of a crib or bassinet.
Most of the infants suffocated after rolling from a side to stomach position. In addition to the reported deaths, CPSC has received dozens of reports of infants who were placed on their backs or sides in sleep positioners, only to be found later in potentially hazardous positions within or next to the sleep positioners.
"The deaths and dangerous situations resulting from the use of infant sleep positioners are a serious concern to CPSC," said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "We urge parents and caregivers to take our warning seriously and stop using these sleep positioners, so that children can have a safer sleep."
The two main types of infant sleep positioners are flat mats with side bolsters or inclined (wedge) mats with side bolsters.
Both types of sleep positioners typically claim to help keep infants on their backs and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The FDA has never cleared an infant sleep positioner to prevent or reduce the risk of SIDS. In addition, CPSC and the FDA are unaware of any scientific studies demonstrating that infant positioners prevent SIDS or are proven to prevent suffocation or other life-threatening harm.
"To date, there is no scientifically sound evidence that infant sleep positioners prevent SIDS," said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner and a pediatrician. "We want to make sure parents, health care professionals, and childcare providers understand the potential risk of suffocation and stop using infant sleep positioners."
Sleep positioners also typically claim to do one or all of the following: aid in food digestion to ease colic or the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); and prevent flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). In light of the new safety data, FDA believes any benefit from using these devices to ease GERD or prevent plagiocephaly is outweighed by the risk of suffocation.
CPSC and the FDA are warning parents and child care providers to:
STOP using sleep positioners. Using a positioner to hold an infant on his or her back or side for sleep is dangerous and unnecessary.
NEVER put pillows, infant sleep positioners, comforters, or quilts under a baby or in a crib.
ALWAYS place an infant on his or her back at night and during nap time. To reduce the risk of SIDS, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing infants to sleep on their backs and not their sides.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not support the use of any sleep positioner to prevent SIDS.
Manufacturers of infant sleep positioners with medical claims that have not been reviewed by the FDA should stop marketing those products until they submit, and the FDA clears, appropriate premarket review submissions, including necessary safety and effectiveness data.
FDA has informed manufacturers of cleared devices of the agency's serious concern and has requested that they submit clinical data showing the benefits of their products outweigh the risk of suffocation or other serious harm.
Most of the infants suffocated after rolling from a side to stomach position. In addition to the reported deaths, CPSC has received dozens of reports of infants who were placed on their backs or sides in sleep positioners, only to be found later in potentially hazardous positions within or next to the sleep positioners.
"The deaths and dangerous situations resulting from the use of infant sleep positioners are a serious concern to CPSC," said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "We urge parents and caregivers to take our warning seriously and stop using these sleep positioners, so that children can have a safer sleep."
The two main types of infant sleep positioners are flat mats with side bolsters or inclined (wedge) mats with side bolsters.
Both types of sleep positioners typically claim to help keep infants on their backs and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The FDA has never cleared an infant sleep positioner to prevent or reduce the risk of SIDS. In addition, CPSC and the FDA are unaware of any scientific studies demonstrating that infant positioners prevent SIDS or are proven to prevent suffocation or other life-threatening harm.
"To date, there is no scientifically sound evidence that infant sleep positioners prevent SIDS," said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner and a pediatrician. "We want to make sure parents, health care professionals, and childcare providers understand the potential risk of suffocation and stop using infant sleep positioners."
Sleep positioners also typically claim to do one or all of the following: aid in food digestion to ease colic or the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); and prevent flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). In light of the new safety data, FDA believes any benefit from using these devices to ease GERD or prevent plagiocephaly is outweighed by the risk of suffocation.
CPSC and the FDA are warning parents and child care providers to:
STOP using sleep positioners. Using a positioner to hold an infant on his or her back or side for sleep is dangerous and unnecessary.
NEVER put pillows, infant sleep positioners, comforters, or quilts under a baby or in a crib.
ALWAYS place an infant on his or her back at night and during nap time. To reduce the risk of SIDS, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing infants to sleep on their backs and not their sides.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not support the use of any sleep positioner to prevent SIDS.
Manufacturers of infant sleep positioners with medical claims that have not been reviewed by the FDA should stop marketing those products until they submit, and the FDA clears, appropriate premarket review submissions, including necessary safety and effectiveness data.
FDA has informed manufacturers of cleared devices of the agency's serious concern and has requested that they submit clinical data showing the benefits of their products outweigh the risk of suffocation or other serious harm.
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