Tuesday, October 6th, 2009 "Sick Days"

Sick Days and Swine Flu Vaccines

Are you getting the flu vaccine?  Are you vaccinating the kids.  That’s the big question on our minds right now as Swine Flu or H1N1 vaccines are beginning to arrive in states today.  They will go to health care workers first, than the most at risk (pregnant women and young children). Last night on CNN Dr. Oz says it will probably be 3 weeks before the bulk of the population is able to get one.  If you’re still trying to decide whether or not it’s the right thing to do this interview might help.

Watch the Video Here

alot of people are still split on whether or not to get

the h1n1 vaccine.

people think it’s not a big deal.

just like a governmernt warning us about an oncoming hurricane.

sometimes the hurricane misses, sometimes it’s hit.

but you have to prepare.

Only 40% of adults say they will get the vaccine.

you risk exposing those most at risk.

When and where we can get it.   3 weeks away for us

http://www.flu.gov.  gives you info on where they will be giving the shots

but you have to call.

Dr. Oz says 1/2 will get the swine flu.

pregnant 6 times greater chance of dying from swine flu.

pregnant women and children will be getting the first doses.

Dr. Oz says alot of people are still split on whether or not to get the h1n1 vaccine. Don’t believe the hype?  Dr. Oz says it’s just like the government warning us about an oncoming hurricane.  Sometimes it misses, sometimes it hits, but you have to warn people and people have to prepare for the worst.  He says it’s possible that half of all Americans will get the Swine Flu.  A recent poll found that 40% of adults in America plan to get the vaccine.   Dr. Oz says that pregnant women are the most at risk. They have a 6 times greater risk of dying from swine flu.

If you want to get the Swine Flu Vaccination the best way to find one is to go online to your doctor’s website.  Here are some more sites that will help:

www.flu.gov

Adventist Health Care

Find a location near you, and call ahead of time to make sure they have the shots and will be giving them to the public.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Autism and our Kids

Autism more prevalent than thought, study says

A study published Monday in the journal Pediatrics indicates about 1 percent of children ages 3 to 17 have autism or a related disorder, an increase over previous estimates. “This is a significant issue that needs immediate attention,” Dr. Ileana Arias, deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. “A concerted effort and substantial national response is warranted.” full story

We all worry about it for our kids.  Now they say 1 in 100 kids are affected in some form by the disease.  From CNN:   “Autism is more prevalent than thought, study says.  A study published Monday in the journal Pediatrics indicates about 1 percent of children ages 3 to 17 have autism or a related disorder, an increase over previous estimates. “This is a significant issue that needs immediate attention,” Dr. Ileana Arias, deputy director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. “A concerted effort and substantial national response is warranted.” full story

If you’re interested in making a difference in the research effort there is a Walk Now for Autism Speaks on The National Mall Saturday, october 31.

McDonalds  at the Louvre

We have on eat the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, so why not at The Louvre?  From The Telegraph:  ”Lovers of France’s two great symbols of cultural exception – its haute cuisine and fine art – are aghast at plans to open a McDonald’s restaurant and McCafé in the Louvre museum next month.

America’s fast food temple is celebrating its 30th anniversary in France with a coup -the opening of its 1,142nd Gallic outlet a few yards from the entrance to the country’s Mecca of high art and the world’s most visited museum.”

The Katinas Mission

Christian Group, The Katinas, are a group of brothers from American Samoa. They are launching an effort to help their hometown recover from the recent earthquake and tsunami and giving you a way you can help.

From the Katina’s Blog: “As many of you may or may not know, American Samoa and Samoa were devastated by an earthquake and tsnuami around 7am local time on September 29, 2009 . Facts are still coming in but there are now reports of over 80 dead and dozens more missing with entire villages flattened. For the past nine months we have been planning our third annual missions trip back to Samoa for this coming November. It is very clear to us now what our mission is.

We have received many calls, texts and emails asking how to help. A relief fund is currently being set up through www.katinamissions.org

CLICK on “Ways To Give” at the top of this page to donate. All donations small or large, are tax deductible.

Thank you for standing with us. Please continue to pray for Samoa.

World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Looking for a Spring Break Trip for the Family?  Launching this fall and winter, Royal Caribbean’s “Oasis of the Seas” is being nicknamed “Vegas on the Water”.  It has 4 pools, a merry go round, ice skating rink, and even it’s own Broadway Show “Hairspray”.

From the Washington Post

Friday, October 2, 2009 "Fall Fun"

Fall Festivals

Kids and Pumpkins, and moms with cameras.  It’s that time of the year we’re all trying to get the perfect family fall photo.  Where do you go for the best pumpkin patches and fall festivals?

This weekend Fall for Fairfax Children’s Festival is going on tomorrow; Saturday, October 3 from 9am-6pm.  It’s Northen Virginia’s largest fall festival with more than 100 interactive activities and exhibits.  There is a train ride, kids climbing wall, pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, inflatables and lots of kid’s performances.  Email us your Fall Family Photos to dj@wgts919.com.

Pumpkin Patches in Maryland and Virginia

Movie Mom Pics

Something for everyone this weekend at the movie theater.  Blogger, Movie Mom, gave us her pics today on the show.  In preparation for Toy Story 3 coming out this summer…this weekend the first 2 Toy Story films have been re-released in theatres! So your kids can enjoy Buzz and Woody on the big screen!

On the economic crisis, “Capitalism, A Love Story” the latest Michael Moore Documentary is out this weekend.  Also, Whip It, the story of a young girl and the Roller Derby by Drew Barrymoore.  Has a good lesson about listening to Mom.

Date Night Movie she recommends the comedy, The Invention of Lying.

Family Movie, Toy Story Double Feature!

At the video store, “Monsters vs. Aliens” and the 70th Anniversary Edition of “Wizard of Oz”.

Thursday, October 1, 2009 "GamerDad"

GamerDad

You can’t escape them!  Video Games are here to stay.  Our kids love them.  Our husbands love them.  Hey, even I get into the drums on RockBand.  Blogger, GamerDad was on the show today talking about how you can actually use them as family bonding time!  Follow his blog here!

Give a Day, Get a Disney Day

There are so many reasons to celebrate. Birthdays. Anniversaries. Reunions. Or any of life’s most special moments. But this year, Disney Parks is celebrating something new and that’s the good things people do for their communities. In 2010, Disney wants to inspire one million people to volunteer a day of service to a participating organization in their communities and celebrate their good works by giving each of them one day admission to a theme park at Disneyland® Resort or Walt Disney World® Resort, free.

Starting January 1, 2010, Guests can go to http://www.disneyparks.com to search for volunteer opportunities made available through HandsOn Network and sign up for a day of volunteer service. As the nation’s largest volunteer network, HandsOn Network has 250 on-the-ground volunteer action centers across the country and connects volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need their help. Many of the opportunities will be projects that entire families can participate in together.

To learn more, just visit http://www.disneyparks.com.

If you are community partner interested in this program, click here to see how you can receive more details.

If you are a HandsOn Action Center – We plan to have several resources available to help you get involved. Stay tuned for more details

Taking a trip to Disney, isn’t just a vacation, it’s an investment!  Now Disney has a way for you to get a free ticket to the parks just by volunteering!  Here’s how:

“Disney Parks is celebrating something new and that’s the good things people do for their communities. In 2010, Disney wants to inspire one million people to volunteer a day of service to a participating organization in their communities and celebrate their good works by giving each of them one day admission to a theme park at Disneyland® Resort or Walt Disney World® Resort, free.

Starting January 1, 2010, Guests can go to www.disneyparks.com to search for volunteer opportunities made available through HandsOn Network and sign up for a day of volunteer service. As the nation’s largest volunteer network, HandsOn Network has 250 on-the-ground volunteer action centers across the country and connects volunteers to more than 70,000 nonprofit agencies that need their help. Many of the opportunities will be projects that entire families can participate in together.”

Hot Toys for Christmas!

It’s October 1st and that means it’s time to talk Christmas already!  AHHHHHH!  The consumer shopping guide Toy Insider offers a glimpse at what some of those toys might be this year in its annual “Hot 20.  The 2009 list is dominated by toys that retail for less than $100. Half the toys cost less than $30, a sign that toy manufacturers are responding to recession-wary parents looking for deals.

The Hot 20:

Elmo’s Tickle HandsMega Bloks Play ‘n Go Table

My Pals Scout and Violet

Tonka Chuck My Talking Truck

1-2-3 Stomp!

Liv Dolls

Rocky the Robot Truck

Tightrope Terror

Transformers Revenge of the Fallen Optimus Prime

Zippity Learning System

Air Hogs Zero Gravity Laser

Bakugan 7:1 Maxus Dragonoid

Battle Strikers Turbo Tops Tournament Set

Girl Gourmet Sweets Candy Jewel Factory

Moxie Girlz

Printies Design Studio Kits

Lego Power Miners Titanium Command Rig

Star Wars The Force Trainer

Style Six Silk Screener

Twilight Scene It? The DVD Game: Deluxe Edition

New NBC Game Show about Household Chores

Source:  The Hollywood Reporter

For a million dollars, can you unspool a roll of toilet paper with your body in 60 seconds?

NBC has ordered a new game show from Universal Media Studios in association with Friday TV that creates high-stakes competition based on deceptively simple household challenges.

In “Perfect 10,” contestants will be faced with 10 tasks they must complete in 60 seconds. Eight one-hour episodes have been ordered, with former NBC alternative head Craig Plestis and Tim Puntillo (“Identity”) serving as executive producers.

By choo

sing easily replicated challenges, NBC hopes to increase the level of at-home participation and the potential to expand the game to other platforms. The network will post demonstrations of 50 games on a Web site before the show’s launch, allowing potential contestants and viewers to practice the tasks.

“I love that it has a mischief as to what the games are, and it looks and feels like we’re creating a very different show than any traditional in-studio game show,” NBC executive vp alternative Paul Telegdy said.

Sweden-based Friday TV approached NBC with a similar idea, which the network turned over to Plestis to help develop into “Perfect 10.” The show marks his first series with the network since becoming a producer earlier this year.

” ‘Perfect 10′ is fast paced, with loads of laughs,” Plestis said. “It has a truly unique visual style and tone. Potential contestants can easily play these games at home, and with a little practice and nerves of steel, they can walk away with a lot of cash.”

No airdate is set, but the show presumably will fill a midseason slot. Next week, NBC Universal International TV will take the format to MIPCOM to sell to foreign markets.

Monday, September 28, 2009 "A Father's Wisdom"

In Honor of Big Russ

imothy Joseph Russert, father of the late, legendary NBC Newsman Tim Russert and grandfather of NBC correspondent Luke Russert, passed away today at the age of 85.

Known as “Big Russ,” Russert became famous in his own right by being a focus of the New York Times bestseller “Big Russ & Me.”

Tim Russert passed away in June 2008 at the age of 58.

Here’s the Russert family statement:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Timothy Joseph Russert. While he was affectionately known to the world as “Big Russ,” he carried no more important nor meaningful titles than those of father, grandfather, great-grandfather, patriot and friend. He passed peacefully with his family at his side from natural causes at the age of 85.

We warmly thank all those who were inspired by his life and his lessons.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association so that the world may move closer to finding a cure for this sad affliction.

We ask for privacy as funeral arrangments are pending.”

Here’s a clip from “Remembering Tim Russert” – the portion about “Big Russ” and his son:

In Honor of Big Russ (the late Tim Russert’s Father) who’s funeral service is today…we asked you to tell us the best advice that your father gave you.  Here’s some of the great advice that came in:

“It’s all about Perserverance”

On temper…”keep it between the lines.”  (don’t let anger become bigger than it is)

“Do you want to live to work…or work to live.”

“there are 3 decisions you make in life…the first is whether to give your life to God or not, the second is what you do in life, the third is who you’re gonna marry.  And the first decision impacts the other 2.”

“Can’t Never did do anything”

“It’s not the  boys on the football team you want to pay attention to…it’s the boys that sit

“If you ever seen anything you really like grab it…you might not get another chance in life at it.”

“Never buy a wallet, because the money you spend on a new wallet, you can stick in your old one.”

Timothy Joseph Russert, father of the late, legendary NBC Newsman Tim Russert and grandfather of NBC correspondent Luke Russert, is being remembered at his funeral today,  He died last Thursday at the age of 85.

Known as “Big Russ,” Russert became famous in his own right by being a focus of the New York Times bestseller “Big Russ & Me.”

Tim Russert passed away in June 2008 at the age of 58.

Here’s the Russert family statement:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Timothy Joseph Russert. While he was affectionately known to the world as “Big Russ,” he carried no more important nor meaningful titles than those of father, grandfather, great-grandfather, patriot and friend. He passed peacefully with his family at his side from natural causes at the age of 85.  We warmly thank all those who were inspired by his life and his lessons.  In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Alzheimer’s Association so that the world may move closer to finding a cure for this sad affliction.  We ask for privacy as funeral arrangments are pending.”

Friday, September 25, 2009 "Movie Mom"

Movie Mom

The remake from the popular television show, Fame, is out in Theaters this weekend.  Nell Minow, Movie Mom, says while the story’s is not that great, the dancing and singing is worth at least a girls night trip to the movies.  But, it’s not for the kids!

Thursday, September 24, 2009 "No Problem Sister"

No Problem Sister

As a working mother with 2 young children there are times that I need help…and I’m no stranger to asking for help…or offering it to my friends.  I don’t believe in pretending that you have it all together.  I believe in just putting yourself out there and being honest when things go awry.   I was inspired by a speaker at my TimeOut Mom’s Group at my church.  Ellie Lofaro from Reston, spoke to us about becoming a “no problem” sister.  Her idea is to say “no problem” when a friend asks you to watch her kids so she can run an errand.  And hopefully when you need a break or a shoulder to cry on she will say “no problem” back to you.  Imagine what a community we could create if we all said “no problem” to each other…

Date Check

Worried about your daughter dating?  Dating yourself and want to make sure your man is a winner?  Want to check up on your date?  There’s an app for that!

Part of Apple’s quest to solve all of life’s problems now includes an application called “Date Check” for your iphone that will allow you to do background checks and even can assess your compatibility, and a potential date’s net worth,!

If this was around when I was a child, my father never would have let me out of the house!  If this was around when I was looking for a husband would it have said my husband and I were compatible?  Hmm…

Big Baby Boy

This big bouncing baby boy gives a whole new meaning to those growth charts at your Pediatrician’s office. Yesterday, a woman in Indonesia gave birth to a baby boy weighing 19.2 pounds!

He is the heaviest newborn ever recorded in Indonesia.  And yes, he was born by Caesarean section.  His name is “Akbar” which means “big” in Indonesian.

Surprisingly, he’s not the heaviest baby ever born!  The Guinness Book of World Records says that honor belongs to Anna Bates who gave brith to a baby weighing 23.12 pounds in 1879.

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Criminal convictions

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Names and ages of relatives, associates & roommates living at search subject’s residence

Wednesday, September 23, 2009 "See You at the Pole"

See You at the Pole

Organizers of the 19th annual “See You At the Pole” school prayer rally are expecting more than three-million teenagers in 20 countries to participate in this morning’s event.  “See You At the Pole” originated in early 1990 among a small group of teenagers in Burleson, Texas.

Tell us about your experience at your school and send us a picture if you can to dj@wgts919.com

From a listener:   “This is picture of our son in 3rd grade at the pole praying.  To our surprise he was the only one who was there at the North Frederick Elementary school,  Frederick , MD. I am sure God will hear his prayer.”

Monday, September 21, 2009 "Kids Cleaning their own Room"

The Fly Lady

The Fly Lady says your kids can clean their own room!  The first thing you have to do though is get rid of all the clutter!  Today she gave us tips on encouraging them through a song and being specific.  Instead of saying “GO CLEAN YOUR ROOM!”  She says we should be specific and say, “Go pick up your toys and put them in your bin”.

If you missed it you can listen to through iTunes here.

Friday, September 18, 2009 "Movie Mom"

Movie Mom

Nell Minow (aka Movie Mom) says “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” is a great film out in theatres for your family this weekend.  She recommends it for kids in 4th and 6th grade and up.

There’s a 3D version out too!  Just know that they don’t make 3D glasses that are kids size and if your kids get scared when things jump out at them, the regular version will be just right for them!

For a Date Night Movie She also loves “The Informant” .  It’s not for kids!  It’s rated R for language, but she says it’s a fascinating acting performance by Matt Damon who gained 30 pounds for his role!

Movie Mom’s Official Website

Here’s the official Movie Trailer for “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”

Elmo Teaches how to Cough

There’s a new way to stop the spread of disease.  Health officials want us to not cough in our hands, and instead cough in the crook of our elbow.  They’ve even contracted Elmo to teach our kids how to do it right!  Check this out:

Virtual Vietnam Memorial

There’s a great effort going on to add a picture and a story with every name on the Veitnam Memorial.  It’s the Virtual Memorial. Kinkos is offering their services to scan the pictures for free.