4th of July
July 3
Celebrate 4th of July with Energy Independence
PECO offers fun ways to conserve energy and save money
PECO encourages customers to celebrate July 4th by becoming more "energy independent" while having fun in the Delaware valley. There are a variety of summer activities that can help customers reduce energy use and save money while benefiting the environment.
-- Have a picnic or barbeque with family, friends, or neighbors. Reduce
your use of appliances like stoves or ovens to keep your home cool and
save money.
-- Enjoy a backyard camp-out.
-- Visit pools or water-parks for a low- or no-cost way to cool down.
-- Turn off the air conditioner and visit one of the region's many air-
conditioned public libraries or museums to stay cool and learn
something new.
-- Take a cool shower instead of a bath to use nearly half as much hot
water. Water heating accounts for about 16 percent of energy used in
the home, making it customers' third largest energy expense.
New this summer is PECO's summer energy efficiency website where anyone who wants to save energy can purchase one of the company's new EasySave Energy Kits. The new kit can save customers about $40 a year and nearly $400 during the life of the products. A value of $30, the kit is available to PECO customers for $19.99 plus $3 shipping and handling. For information call 1- 800-831-8383 x 190 or visit www.pecosummer.com. The kit includes:
-- ENERGY STAR 60, 75 and 100 watt Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFL):
Each CFL uses about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent
light bulbs and can last up to 9 years.
-- Filter Whistle: This handy device snaps onto filters in central cooling
or heating systems. As dust collects, the device whistles and reminds
you that it is time to change the filter.
-- Low Voltage Night Light: This flat plug-in night light uses only 31
cents of electricity a year, saving you about $9.
-- Refrigerator/Freezer Thermometer: Many refrigerators are set colder
than necessary and are wasting electricity. Knowing the proper setting
for your appliance will help you save money.
-- Switch and Outlet Insulators: Lack of insulation lets warm air enter
your home and makes your cooling system work harder. These easy to
install insulators go behind light switch plates and outlets to help
seal up your home.
-- Energy Efficiency Information: This handy information wheel not only
provides users with energy saving information, but it offers several
ways that customers can help the environment.
Visit www.pecosummer.com, PECO's online energy store, for a wide variety of energy efficient products. PECO has joined with Energy Federation Inc., one of the leading distributors of energy-saving products in the United States, to offer energy-saving products at a 20 percent discount to PECO customers. The company does not profit from any of the online sales, but is offering its customers another way to save money this summer by reducing their home energy usage.
Based in Philadelphia, PECO is an electric and natural gas utility subsidiary of Exelon Corporation (NYSE:EXC) . PECO serves 1.6 million electric and 480,000 natural gas customers in southeastern Pennsylvania. In 2006, the company delivered 38.2 million megawatt-hours (Mwh) of electricity and 76.1 billion cubic feet of natural gas to residential, business and institutional customers. Founded in 1881, PECO is one of the Greater Philadelphia Region's most active corporate citizens, providing leadership, volunteer and financial support to numerous arts and culture, education, environmental, economic development and community programs and organizations.
Web site: http://www.peco.com/
http://www.pecosummer.com/
July 2
BBQ and the 4th of July!
CheapTickets.com Identifies the Best Cities to Enjoy Food and Festivities this Independence Day
The heat is on this Fourth of July, with fired-up grills and lit-up skies expected all across the United States. CheapTickets.com, a leading online travel agency that knows "the less you pay, the better it feels(TM)," has commissioned its Destination Experts -- travel authorities stationed throughout the country -- to identify the top cities for BBQ this Independence Day.
Benefiting from their expertise and utilizing the CheapTickets Summer Hotel Sale, BBQ-lovers can fly or drive to cities near or far this July 4th, enjoy authentic BBQ and experience the best all-American festivities during the cherished national holiday.
CHEAPTICKETS' TOP 10 BBQ DESTINATIONS
CheapTickets' hotel booking data ranks the top 10 BBQ destinations for the July 4th holiday as nominated by the online agency's Destination Experts. The ranking identifies where people are headed this Independence Day for food and fun and includes CheapTickets' favorite joints for tasty BBQ in each respective city.
CheapTickets Top BBQ Destinations(1)
BBQ Destination CheapTickets Favorite Average Daily Rate
Destination for 3-star hotels(2)
Rank for
4th of July
1 New York City Dinosaur Bar-B-Que $167.60
2 New Orleans, LA Bywater Bar-B-Que $133.83
3 Washington, D.C. Old Glory All-American BBQ $103.94
4 St. Louis, MO Smoki O'S $90.82
5 Dallas, TX Jasper's Restaurant $84.07
6 Kansas City, MO Arthur Bryant's $123.74
7 Cincinnati, OH Montgomery Inn $119.95
8 Charleston, SC Sticky Fingers RibHouse $164.60
9 Little Rock, AR Corky's BBQ $155.95
10 Memphis, TN Pig-N-Whistle $100.20
(1) BBQ destinations were nominated by CheapTickets' Destination Experts
and ranked using CTIX hotel booking data. Rankings are based on
CheapTickets bookings as of 6-18-07 for arrivals 7-3-07 through
7-6-07.
(2) Average Daily Rate was calculated by taking the average price of
3-star hotels in the listed markets purchased on CheapTickets.com
through 6/24/07 for arrivals 7/3/07 through 7/6/07.
Save $50-Off A July 4th Getaway with the CheapTickets Summer Hotel & Package Sale*:
Last-minute planners can still find an affordable getaway this Fourth of July with the CheapTickets Summer Hotel Sale. It is not too late to fly somewhere special or to gas up and drive to a local city near you! BBQ-fans and travelers of all persuasions will receive $50-off qualifying hotel and package (hotel plus air) bookings of three or more nights on CheapTickets.com (and noted by the CheapTickets "Best Price Guarantee" icon). Customers must book their travel using promotion code CTXSUMMER by July 8, 2007, and travel is valid through September 3, 2007.
CHEAPTICKETS' PICKS FOR THE BEST BBQ GETAWAYS IN 2007 & Sample Hotel Plus Air Packages**:
CheapTickets' Destination Experts have eaten their way through some of the country's best BBQ to identify their favorites for this July 4th. More than a few sauce-stained shirts later, CheapTickets' travel gurus highlight their favorites for 2007. Let their hard work (ok, who are we kidding?) be your guide.
New York City - The Big Apple is big on food - and BBQ is no exception. Dinosaur B-B-Que is a much-loved Harlem establishment that offers mouthwatering fare, complemented by live music and the restaurant's picturesque setting under the Riverside Drive bridge. For Independence Day festivities, visitors can head to the East River, where Macy's Department Stores and the New York Fire Department host an annual fireworks spectacular. The pyrotechnic display is accompanied by red, clear and blue water streams shooting 300 feet over the river thanks to the FDNY fire boats.
Chicago, IL to New York: Fly from Chicago to New York and stay 3 nights at the 4-Star Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers from $570 per person
Travel Dates: July 2-5
Washington, DC - Get saucy this July 4th in the nation's capital. Old Glory All-American BBQ offers traditional slow-cooked meats marinated in the restaurant's own homemade BBQ sauces and dry rubs. Tasty BBQ is not the only treat in store for visitors to Washington, DC this Fourth of July. The capital's nationally-renowned fireworks display is among the best in the country, with one of the most famous skylines as its backdrop.
San Diego, CA to Washington, DC: Fly from San Diego to Washington, DC and stay 3 nights at the 4-Star Jurys Washington Hotel from $587 per person
Travel Dates: July 2-5
Cincinnati, OH - Situated on the banks of the Ohio River, Montgomery Inn at the Boathouse is considered one of the best rib joints in the Midwest. The secret is in the sauce as our Destination Experts can attest. This Queen City jewel happens to be next door neighbors with the Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds. Celebrate Fourth of July while watching America's pastime and enjoy the fireworks display with every home run.
Atlanta, GA to Cincinnati: Fly from Atlanta to Cincinnati and stay 3 nights at the 4-Star Hyatt Regency from $478 per person
Travel Dates: July 2-5
Charleston, SC - Welcome to the Low Country, home of the sweetest tea and authentic "fall-off-the-bone" ribs. This year, spend Fourth of July tasting Sticky Fingers RibHouse's five original sauce flavors. Two Destination Expert favorites: Habanero Hot and Carolina Sweet! With appetite satisfied, head over to Patriot's Point where the South Carolina Aquarium will host fireworks overlooking the Charleston Harbor-Happy Birthday America!
Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC: Fly from Ft. Lauderdale to Charleston and stay 3 nights at the 4-Star Holiday Inn from $547 per person
Travel Dates: July 2-5
Little Rock, AR - It's all about the ribs at Corky's BBQ. Corky's distinctive, slow-cooked meats have been grilled to perfection over hickory wood and charcoal since 1984. Top off the night by heading to "Pops on the River," a July 4th concert by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Live music will accompany the fireworks display over the Arkansas River, offering the whole family a night of entertainment at the best price of all -- free.
Denver, CO to Little Rock, AR: Fly from Denver to Little Rock and stay 3 nights at the 4-Star Holiday Inn from $547 per person
Travel Dates: July 2-5
Terms & Conditions:
* Book a qualifying hotel or flight + hotel vacation package -- indicated by a coupon icon -- between June 4, 2007, and July 8, 2007, for 3 or more nights for travel between June 4, 2007, and September 3, 2007, via CheapTickets("Qualifying Purchase") and instantly receive $50 off your purchase on CheapTickets through the use of the promotion code ("Instant Discount"). Only Qualifying Purchases made through July 8, 2007, by 11:59 p.m. CT shall qualify for the Instant Discount. Travel must be completed by September 3, 2007. Only one Instant Discount allowed per hotel room. Instant Discounts are not redeemable for cash for any reason. Once Instant Discount has been redeemed, it may not be returned or refunded for any reason. Any attempt at fraud will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted. CheapTickets reserves the right to change or limit the promotion in its sole discretion. In the event of any violation of these terms and conditions, CheapTickets reserves the right to not honor the Instant Discount, cancel your reservation, and pursue other remedies.
** Sample rates shown were accurate and available on CheapTickets.com on 6/25/07 for travel 7/2/07 - 7/5/07 and may not represent current prices because or real-time pricing booking engine is constantly updating prices and availability. Vacation package prices shown are for one adult, based on double-occupancy, include applicable taxes and fees, and will vary by selected day of departure, departure city, length of stay, hotel selected, hotel room category, and availability. $50 Summer Hotel Sale savings have not been applied to the package pricing.
About CheapTickets
CheapTickets (www.cheaptickets.com) is a leading seller of discounted leisure travel products online through its Web site, www.cheaptickets.com. CheapTickets provides consumers access to its collection of airfares on hundreds of airlines. In addition to air, CheapTickets' family of discounted travel products also includes hotel accommodations, cruises, rental cars, vacation packages, condo rentals and Last Minute Trips. Founded in 1986, CheapTickets is a Travelport Inc. brand. Travelport (www.travelport.com) is one of the largest and most geographically diverse travel companies, dedicated to creating the exceptional travel experiences the world demands.
Source: CheapTickets
Web site: http://www.cheaptickets.com/
Red, White and Blue Can Be Safe, Fun and Healthy Too
RevolutionHealth.com Offers Critical Safety Reminders for Parents This July 4th Holiday
-- The 4th of July means outdoor fun and fireworks, but holiday festivities can present hazards for children if parents aren't careful. Simple steps can prevent injuries and keep kids safe. RevolutionHealth.com's Chief Medical Officer, Pediatrician Dr. Jeffrey Gruen, offers reminders for the most common July 4th activities.
-- Keep an Eye on Fireworks -- Since 1990, there have been approximately
100,000 fireworks-related injuries to children in the U.S., resulting
in approximately 10,000 permanent injuries. Eye injuries, including
blindness, are the second most common injury, after burns.
In case of an eye injury, do not let a child rub their eye. Instead,
place a protective patch over the eye. Do not apply ointment. Do not
give aspirin or ibuprofen because both can thin the blood. Go
immediately to an emergency room, even if there is no pain after a
blunt impact injury. Serious eye injuries from blunt impact can occur
days later.
-- Glow, Don't Sparkle -- Some fireworks might seem gentle enough for
children, but sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees, about five times hotter
than a typical stove! Children cannot judge how dangerous this is, and
they should not put sparklers in their pockets.
The rule is simple: Never give fireworks to children of any age. The
best way to enjoy fireworks is at a public display where professionals
operate the equipment, although make sure you are watching from a
comfortable distance. Don't let your children handle firework
fragments -- they have been known to explode. If children want to be
part of the celebration, give them glow in the dark wands or toys
instead. This way, they can safely generate their own "light."
-- Water, Water Everywhere -- If you participate in a private fireworks
display, follow simple guidelines to ensure that you and your family
stay safe. Use fireworks only outside. Have one or more buckets of
water on hand to put out sparks. Wear gloves and protective eye gear.
Realize that fireworks cause a huge number of house fires as well so
protect against it. Remember to dispose of used fireworks properly.
"As a father of three kids, I can tell you the last place you want to spend your holiday is in an emergency room!" said Dr. Gruen. "This July 4th and all summer long, make sure your children are educated on the risks associated with their summer activities and know what to do in the event an accident does happen."
Additional health and safety advice this July 4th weekend includes:
-- Be Cool at the Pool, Watch and Walk -- With summer in full swing, it is
more important than ever that parents keep an eye on children when
enjoying the pool. Drowning is the second leading cause of death for
children under 14. Whether it's at a friend's backyard or a public
pool, make sure children know that they are not allowed in the pool
without adult supervision. Don't rely on swimming lessons or
"floaties," and never leave a child unattended in a pool.
When swimming or playing near the pool, obey lifeguards and pool rules,
particularly in public pools which can get crowded. Children should
always walk, not run, to avoid slipping and falling. Set a good
example for children by leading the way and enjoying the pool safely.
-- Fall-ow the Law, Strap on a Helmet -- It can't be said enough: Wear a
helmet when biking or rollerblading. A properly-worn helmet is the
best -- and simplest -- way to prevent serious injury. Seventy-five
percent of bicycle-related injuries would not have occurred if a helmet
had been worn. While 97% of parents recognize the importance of
wearing a bicycle helmet, only one in five (20%) actually insists that
their children wear one.
Read more about summer safety tips for your children at Dr. Gruen's blog.
Dr. Jeffrey Gruen is Chief Medical Officer of Revolution Health where he heads a team of physicians to provide overall health care and clinical direction and works to enhance relationships between consumers and providers of care. Dr. Gruen has had a distinguished career as a senior health care executive for the past 25 years. He received his M.D. from Northwestern University and completed his internship and residency in Pediatrics at Yale- New Haven Hospital. He served as Director of Pediatrics at a health center associated with The Massachusetts General Hospital and previously served on the clinical faculty of Harvard Medical School. Dr. Gruen also has an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
About Revolution Health
Revolution Health Group LLC was created by AOL Co-Founder Steve Case to create products and services that empower people by putting them at the center of the health system. The cornerstone of the company is RevolutionHealth.com, a free consumer health and medical web site that marries expert content and online tools with the power of social networking. Revolution Health also offers premium services that enable companies to provide health content and customized online tools to their employees, an insurance marketplace and CarePages, the leading service that enables communication among family and friends when someone is receiving care. For more information go to http://revolutionhealth.com/.
Source: Revolution Health Group
ATF's Tips for a Safe Fourth of July
-- As Independence Day approaches, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) wants to remind the public to exercise caution when dealing with fireworks and only purchase legal fireworks through licensed retailers.
ATF is the federal law enforcement agency charged with enforcing federal explosives laws. ATF actively works with other federal agencies, such as the Consumer Products Safety Commission through its fireworks enforcement program, to prevent trafficking and possession of illegal fireworks, which are technically classified as illegal explosive devices. ATF investigates manufacturers and distributors of illegal explosive devices in an effort to keep them out of the hands of unsuspecting consumers.
"Make sure fireworks are legal in your area and that they are used safely," advises Paul Vido, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division. The Louisville Field Division is comprised of 14 offices throughout Kentucky and West Virginia.
Illegal explosive devices meet neither safety nor quality standards of legally manufactured consumer fireworks. Federally banned fireworks include M-80s, M-1000s, Silver Salutes, Quarter Sticks, Quarter Pounders, and Cherry Bombs. These types of devices are sold by unscrupulous individuals who tout these items as "fireworks" when in reality they are small, illegal, unstable bombs that sometimes explode in the hands of unwary buyers or children.
The explosive material in these devices greatly exceeds the limit for common fireworks. Notoriously, these illegal explosives have almost instantaneous fuses and are designed to detonate other explosives in close proximity. Mail-order kits designed to build these fireworks also are banned. The manufacture, sale and receipt of these illegal explosives devices are a federal felony and can result in a 10-year prison sentence.
Vido warned that "these types of illegal explosives just are not safe. We want people to stay safe this 4th of July. Everyone, especially parents, needs to understand that friction, heat, or even a slight bump can cause these types of illegal devices to detonate."
State and local fireworks laws and regulations differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Before purchasing or using any fireworks, check with the authorities in your areas to find out what is allowed. "Buy fireworks from vendors who operate openly and welcome visits by fire departments and police officers. Never buy so called 'fireworks' from a person selling them on the street or out of the back of a vehicle," Vido added.
Some indicators of an illegal explosive device are:
-- Resembles a roll of coins with a fuse
-- A cardboard tube or oddly shaped item wrapped in brown paper filled
with an explosive material
-- Red, silver or brown in color
-- May be one to six inches long and up to an inch or more in diameter
-- Being sold on the street or out of the back of someone's vehicle
Some important fireworks safety tips include:
-- Always get the facts first about state and local fireworks ordinances.
Check with your local fire department, police or sheriff's office
-- Always buy fireworks from a legal vendor.
-- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place not accessible to youngsters.
-- Always avoid rough handling of fireworks.
-- Only light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from anything that
might catch fire. Keep water or a fire extinguisher handy.
-- Only light one firework at a time and then move away to a safe
distance.
-- Children and fireworks can be a volatile mix. Responsible adults
should always supervise when igniting fireworks.
"Citizens can play an important role in curbing the pain and injuries caused by these illegal devices," Vido said. The public should report the manufacture or sale of illegal fireworks or explosive devices to local law enforcement or by calling the toll-free ATF hotline at 1-888-ATF-BOMB (1-888- 283-2662).
Web site: http://www.atf.gov/
July 4th Busiest and 'Trashiest' Beach Holiday of the Year
Clean Beaches Council Lists 7 Most Appalling Trash Items on US Beaches
-- Most beachgoers this July 4th, the biggest beach holiday of the year, will be looking for sun, sand and surf, but after the fireworks are finished they may be surprised to find plenty of shocking and unsanitary trash items.
As part of National Clean Beaches Week, June 29-July 5, the Clean Beaches Council has compiled a list of the seven most appalling litter items found on U.S. beaches. These include:
-- Condoms
-- Syringes
-- Diapers
-- Tampons
-- Cigar Tips
-- Shotgun Shells
-- Cars
National Clean Beaches Week, in its fourth year, aims to raise awareness of the threats facing our beaches and to increase public responsibility and stewardship of public beaches around the country. The council highlights four themes: the environment, travel, fitness and health, as well as healthy seafood.
"Take a look around your feet at the end of the Independence Day and you will likely be horrified at what you find there," says Walter McLeod, president of the Clean Beaches Council, which sponsors the week. "Let's make sure this July 4th all we leave behind on the beach are our footprints."
On Wednesday, June 27, the US House of Representatives passed legislation, supported by President Bush, to make National Clean Beaches Week official. They followed the Senate, which passed the bill earlier in the week.
With some 180 million people visiting the U.S. coast each year and more than half of the total U.S. population now living in a coastal county, beach litter is a growing problem. Litter can harm marine life, coral reefs, recreational and commercial vessels, as well as people. Clean Beaches Council estimates that in 2006 alone, more than 390 pounds of litter was collected per mile of coastline during a yearly coastal clean up sponsored by the Ocean Conservancy.
About the Clean Beaches Council
Launched in the United Nation's "International Year of the Ocean" (the spring of 1998), Clean Beaches Council is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization devoted to sustaining America's beaches by increasing public awareness and volunteer participation. Since its inception, CBC has developed innovative approaches to coastal management and protection of human health and the environment. CBC's flagship program is the Blue Wave Campaign -- America's first environmental certification program for beaches. For more information, visit www.cleanbeaches.org.
Source: Clean Beaches Council
Web site: http://www.cleanbeaches.org/
National Safety Council Reports 4th of July Most Dangerous Holiday
Offers Tips for Injury-Free Celebration
The combination of travel, alcohol and fireworks has made July the nation's deadliest month and the 4th of July our most dangerous holiday.
According to the most recent data available from the National Safety Council, July 4, 2005 was the most lethal holiday for drivers, with alcohol factoring into nearly half of all motor vehicle deaths over the July 4th holiday.
This year, the National Safety Council estimates 203 traffic fatalities and 10,600 nonfatal disabling traffic injuries during the holiday period that begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4.
Another tragic holiday pairing is fireworks and kids. Of the estimated 10,800 people treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2005, nearly half were under 15 years old. Children between the ages of 10 and 14 were at three times the risk of fireworks injuries than the general population; about a third of the injuries were from small firecrackers, 21 percent from bottle rockets and 20 percent from sparklers.
The National Safety Council urges Americans to celebrate this Independence Day injury-free. Some easy -- and potentially lifesaving -- precautions include:
Traffic Safety
An estimated 174 lives may be saved this holiday because people will wear their safety belts, and an additional 48 lives could be saved if all wore safety belts.
-- Think ahead if you plan on consuming alcohol. Designate a sober driver
and give that person your keys.
-- If you're impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober
friend or family member to get you home safely.
-- Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the road to law enforcement.
-- Don't let friends drive drunk. Take their keys and help them make safe
travel arrangements.
Fireworks safety
The best way to safely enjoy fireworks is to watch a public fireworks display conducted by professionals. However, if fireworks are legal where you live and you decide to use them:
-- Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
-- Allow older children to use fireworks only under close adult
supervision.
-- Do not allow any running or horseplay while fireworks are being used.
-- Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from onlookers, houses
and flammable materials.
-- Light one device at a time; maintain a safe distance after lighting.
-- Never ignite devices in a container.
-- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks; douse and
soak them with water and discard them safely.
-- Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't
go off or in case of fire.
The National Safety Council (http://www.nsc.org/) is a nonprofit, nongovernmental, international public service organization. Members of the NSC include businesses, labor organizations, schools, public agencies, private groups and individuals. Founded in 1913 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1953, the National Safety Council is committed to preventing accidental injuries in the workplace, on roads and highways, and in homes and communities.
Source: National Safety Council
Web site: http://www.nsc.org/
Shoppers Advantage Says Add Sizzle to the 4th:
Spark Up The Grill, Dive Into The Pool & Jump Into Independence Day Celebration
-- With the Fourth of July holiday right around the corner, it's time to fire up the grill, jump into the pool, tee up the golf ball and swing into outdoor entertainment, revelry and celebration.
The Fourth of July holiday beckons -- and so to, does summertime -- and the experts at Shoppers Advantage are exercising their independence to bring you the best in outdoor entertaining that will add spark to this year's celebration.
"Parades, parties, backyard barbecues, fireworks and family fun are the hallmarks of this exciting summer holiday tradition," said Michael Lombardo, director of Shoppers Advantage. "Make sure you have everything you need to add flair to this great American celebration."
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 300 million U.S. residents will consume 150 million hot dogs on this patriotic holiday. (That's one hot dog for every two people). With more than 236 million pounds of fireworks used per year, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association, this mainstay to the Fourth of July adds an exclamation point to the festivities. And, American flag sales are surging as patriotism flourishes around this holiday -- with more than $7 million in American flag sales per year, according to the Census Bureau.
As revelers prepare to celebrate, did you know that there are 30 places nationwide with "liberty" in their name -- and Iowa boasts four -- Libertyville, New Liberty, North Liberty and West Liberty? Five places have the name freedom, and Freedom, Calif., is the largest city bearing this name. There's even a place called Patriot, Ind., and American Fork, Utah.
With a nod to patriotism across America, Shoppers Advantage is joining the parade with the perfect July 4th entertainment ideas:
1. Spark up the barbecue ... the tastebud-tingling aroma of grilled
delicacies serve as the perfect centerpiece to a successful July 4th.
Shoppers Advantage offers a full line of high-tech brand name grills
such as Weber, Coleman and Ducane ... and the Coleman RoadTrip Gas
Barbecue Grill is perfect for outings to the park, beach or sporting
events. We also have Omaha Steaks and other Omaha Beef and Seafood
products.
2. Dive into the pool ... Transform your backyard into a relaxing
Independence Day oasis ... Shoppers Advantage offers above ground
pools from Heritage Pools in a variety of sizes up to 45ft by 18ft Oval
pools. Add a dash of cool with a pool.
3. Made in the shade ... After you have dined on barbecue and refreshed
yourself in the pool, relax in the sheer comfort of the shade -
screenhouses, canopies and awnings that keep you as cool inside as out.
Add an outdoor fan to help cool you off.
4. Keep Fido cool ... and your other pets, too, with a range of Shelter
Logic covered outdoor pet kennels that feature UV protected, waterproof
polyethylene fabric covers.
5. Catch the breeze ... with a full line of bikes, scooters and bike
trailers for the entire family. Name brands include Schwinn, Mongoose
and Pacific Cycle.
6. Build your kids' imagination ... with swing sets, playhouses and
miniature jeeps from Fisher Price, Peg-Perego and Little Tikes.
7. Tee it up and swing for the green ... with the latest golf equipment
from Callaway, Taylor Made, Wilson and Dunlop.
8. Take a load off ... Spice up your barbecue and make a splash with
patio, pool and beach furniture from Coleman, Texsport and Lifetime.
9. Light it up ... with the perfectly-placed outdoor lighting --
including popular solar powered wireless lights that are all the rage
this season.
10. Show your patriotic spirit ... with a 16-foot American flag pole kit
from Buffalo Tool. Dress up your home, yard or business with this
aluminum flag pole kit that includes an American flag, brass ball,
raising pulley and tie-down cleat.
About Shoppers Advantage
Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848) is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of nearly two million members nationwide. Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T. Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans.
About Affinion Group
Affinion Group is a leading affinity direct marketer of value-added membership, insurance and package enhancement programs and services to consumers. With more than 30 years of experience, Affinion Group currently offers its programs and services worldwide through more than 5,200 affinity partners. Its diversified base of affinity partners includes leading companies in a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, travel, telecommunications, utilities and Internet. Affinion Group also has a growing loyalty solutions operation which administers points-based loyalty programs. Based in Norwalk, Conn., Affinion Group has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe.
Source: Shoppers Advantage
Forget White and Blue -- Celebrate Independence Day with Red
Give Summer Barbeques a Healthy Twist and Patriotic Color with Cranberries
-- Looking for ways to add a patriotic flair and healthy twist to your July 4th barbeque celebration? Try adding the tangy flavor of the cranberry to your menu. The cranberry is one of only a handful of major fruits native to North America. Though small in size, cranberries pack big, versatile flavor and have more antioxidants per gram than most common fruit. Make the cranberry the star of any summertime gathering and have your guests seeing vibrant shades of berry red in everything from healthy drink recipes to salads to barbeque relishes.
For guests who may be watching their waistlines during bathing suit season, make sure you serve drinks and dishes that won't break the calorie bank. Toast your country's anniversary with a new twist on a classic cocktail -- the "5-0 Cosmo," made with Diet Ocean Spray(R), has only 50 calories, compared to the 150 calories found in a traditional cosmopolitan. Treat your guests to a cool pitcher of Spritzerberry punch also made with Diet Ocean Spray(R) Juice Drink and diet ginger ale. This low calorie treat not only provides a refreshing burst of flavor on a hot day, Diet Ocean Spray(R) is a good source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.
Add a surprisingly sweet twist to any salad by incorporating Craisins(R) Sweetened Dried Cranberries, naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and a good source of dietary fiber. The Effortless Spinach Salad is a fool-proof recipe with bold flavors and healthy ingredients that your guests won't be able to resist on a hot summer day.
For the main act, skip the burgers and hot dogs and try a Cedar Planked Salmon with Spiced Cranberry Relish for a sophisticated barbeque treat. Salmon is loaded with heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and the cranberry relish is the perfect antioxidant-packed accompaniment.
Ocean Spray has put together some great "Bog-er-cise" summertime recipes that feature healthy ingredients. Bog-er-cise(TM) is a new lifestyle trend coined by Ocean Spray that is all about making small changes to your daily routine through healthy food choices and keeping fitness fun. Even Ocean Spray's TV growers are "Bog-er-cising" in their new commercial for Diet Ocean Spray(R) Juice Drink. To download your own Bog-er-cise(TM) recipe booklet, visit http://www.oceanspray.com/.
Spritzerberry
6 ounces Diet Ocean Spray(R) Juice Drink, any flavor
2 ounces diet ginger ale
Pour all ingredients in a tall glass over ice. Makes 1 serving.
Effortless Spinach Salad
8 ounces fresh spinach
1/2 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Craisins(R) Original Sweetened Dried Cranberries
2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds, optional
Dressing:
1/2 cup bottled balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest, optional
Wash and clean spinach. Tear into bite size pieces and place in a serving bowl. Add half of the feta or goat cheese and onion; toss to combine. Combine dressing ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Top with sweetened dried cranberries and almonds. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.
Cedar Planked Salmon with Spiced Cranberry Relish
Cooking Tools:
1 untreated 6 x 12-inch cedar plank or shingle
Relish:
1 cup Ocean Spray(R) Cranberry Juice Cocktail
3/4 cup Ocean Spray(R) Craisins(R) Original Sweetened Dried Cranberries
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon orange peel
3/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
Marinade:
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 1-1/4-pound salmon filet, 3/4 to 1-1/4-inches thick
Soak cedar plank or shingle in water 1 to 2 hours. Combine all relish ingredients in medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture boils, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; simmer 6 to 8 minutes or until onion is tender and mixture thickens. Cool.
Meanwhile, combine soy sauce, orange juice and honey in shallow dish; add salmon, skin side up. Cover; refrigerate 30 minutes. Heat grill for medium- high indirect heat. Place salmon skin side down on plank; place on grill. Grill for 20 to 30 minutes or until flesh is opaque and flakes easily with fork. Place salmon on serving platter and cut into 4 pieces. Serve with relish. Makes 4 servings.
Ocean Spray is an agricultural cooperative owned by more than 650 cranberry growers in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and other parts of Canada as well as about 50 Florida grapefruit growers. Ocean Spray was formed 75 years ago by three cranberry growers from Massachusetts and New Jersey. Florida grapefruit growers joined the Cooperative in 1976. Ocean Spray is North America's leading producer of canned and bottled juices and juice drinks, and has been the best-selling brand name in the canned and bottled juice category since 1981. Ocean Spray posted fiscal 2006 sales of roughly $1.5 billion.
Source: Ocean Spray
Web site: http://www.oceanspray.com/