2009 Spring Guide by Hersam Acorn

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Yankee Shopper • Berkshire Penny Saver • TriState Pennysaver News • Vermont News Guide

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A Hersam Acorn Newspapers Publication Melissa Miller, cover design Jen Hathaway, page design Berkshire Penny Saver 154 West Park Street, Lee, MA 01238 413-243-2341 Yankee Shopper 20 Cleveland Road, Dalton, MA 01226 413-684-1373 TriState Pennysaver News 109 South Street, Bennington, VT 05201 802-447-3381 Vermont News Guide 99 Bonnet Street, Manchester, VT 05254 802-362-3535

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Add Style to Your Outdoor Spaces

ping or peeling. Use Espresso Brown or Real Almond to give (MS) -- Each year homeowners across America spend your patio set a sophisticated, chic appearance. Want to add a approximately $40-billion upgrading, enhancing and decoburst of color to your outdoor spaces? Try vibrant colors like rating their outdoor living spaces. Don’t have a fortune to Crimson Red or Canary Yellow. spend on landscaping, outdoor furnishings and backyard • Planters and garden accents are a great way to add a personal accessories? It’s easy to add a touch of style and create the pertouch to your patio and garden -- but they can end up costing fect outdoor living space with some paint and a little imaginaa pretty penny. Instead of spending a small fortune on decoration. Here’s a few ideas from the outdoor decorating experts at Rust-Oleum: tive accessories, pick up some unfinished concrete pieces from • Transforming the look of patios, porches and walkways can your local store and spray them with a concrete stain like Rustaccentuate the beauty Oleum Concrete of your outdoor spacStain Aerosol. Transform ordies. Does your concrete look old, dated, weathnary planters into decorative accent ered? Now you can pieces with colrefresh concrete surfaces and make them ors like Burnished look new again with Gold and Sienna. Rust-Oleum SemiGive statuary a Transparent Concrete classic look with Stain Kits. Add warmth Concrete Stain with colors like Terra Aerosol in Earth Cotta or Tuscan Rock. Brown and Pewter. Want to give your Protect your patio a trendy look? stained pieces with Try deeper, neutral colConcrete Sealer Aerosol, available ors like Sandstone or in two sheens: Slate. The water-based Why not give your old furniture a “facelift”? gloss and natural. Concrete Stain is easy These UV and chemical resistant sealers add years of durabilto apply and adds durable color and dimension to concrete surfaces. ity to concrete, stone and masonry. • Designer patio sets, lawn chairs and other outdoor furniFor more inspiration and project ideas, visit www.paintture can cost thousands of dollars. Why not give your old furideas.com. There are hundreds of easy, inexpensive projects that can help you transform any outdoor or indoor living niture a “facelift” with spray paint like Rust-Oleum Universal? space. It’s the first all-surface spray paint, so you can paint plastic, vinyl, metal, wood, and more without worrying about it chipSH092977

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2009 Spring Guide

Digital TV Transition Delayed Until June. Are You Prepared?

(ARA) - Are you a television junkie? Do you hold viewing parties for season premieres, award shows or season finales? On June 12, 2009, at 11:59 p.m., analog television will cease to exist -- but what does this mean for you? Is this the end to your viewing parties? Or to free TV? Will you need to replace your current TV with a newer, digital model? What are the benefits -- will you be able to watch higher-quality TV? These are some of the many questions being asked, and even though the deadline has been extended by a few months, now is the time for you to raise your hand, ask a few questions around the switch to digital TV movement, and get prepared. IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization, along with numerous leading broadcast and technology organizations, is helping to ensure the public is aware of what this change means, and how to make any necessary adjustments before this mandate is put in place. Armed with information and resources, IEEE is helping Americans understand the switch to digital TV broadcast movement, and has prepared some frequently asked questions below; ensuring you have a signal to watch your favorite shows -- from Oprah and the local news to CSI and championship sporting events.

Q: Will digital television be better than analog television? A: Yes! With digital television, you’ll have higher-quality, picture perfect signal and CDquality sound. Think of it as bringing movie-quality viewing to the comforts of your home.

Q: Is digital television more expensive than analog television? A: No. Traditional, non-cable television programs will continue to be free! Q: If I currently have cable service, is there anything else I need to do to prepare for the switch? A: If you have cable service, there is nothing else you would need to do. However, if other TV sets in the house are not connected to cable and they receive their signals with an antenna, each of these sets will need a digital TV converter box. Q: What is a digital TV converter box? A: A digital TV converter box hooks up to a conventional analog TV set, allowing it to receive digital broadcasts.

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Next-Generation Puzzles: Simple Looks Are Deceiving

(NAPS)—With standardized test scores on the decline, cal human insight—or obsession. The Power of Six a growing number of parents are concerned about their children’s educational prospects—as well as the amount of “When researching whole numbers, I became fascinated with the number six, because it creates quadrillions of postime they spend in front of the computer and playing video games. sibilities in three dimensions,” To the rescue: a new says Dr. Derrick Niederman, generation of puzzles an MIT Ph.D. and puzzle that sharpen critical skills inventor. “So I got right to like reasoning and probwork on a 3-D puzzle based on six.” lem solving, with a strong power to engage. Dr. Niederman went on to create a puzzle with a square Puzzling Greatness base with 36 holes into which For centuries, puzzle makers have tried to cre36 tower pieces can fit: six each of six distinct colors. The ate brain benders that take serious perseverance, if solution lies in fitting them in not a genius IQ, to solve. the towers so that there is only one of each color in each The most enduring tend to be simple in appearrow and column, forming a perfect cube. ance, but then turn out to World-class puzzle experts be anything but easy to like Nick Baxter, captain of solve. Rubik’s Cube may the U.S. Sudoku team, say Dr. stand as the best-known Niederman hit the mark. “It modern example. looks and sounds simple, but “That’s the lure of a A challenging puzzle can be a terrific gift to stimulate it will have you up at night,” great puzzle, an ‘I can do creative thinking. says Baxter. this’ first impression,” says Dr. Niederman’s invention, dubbed 36 Cube, is now availBill Ritchie, CEO of ThinkFun, Inc., maker of hit puzzles like Gordian’s Knot and Rush Hour. “It’s what gets you able through ThinkFun at leading retailers nationwide. An started, and why you can’t stop.” online trial version is available at www.ThinkFun.com. While computers have greatly influenced and accelerated puzzle development, the best puzzles still spring from criti-

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2009 Spring Guide

Simple Ways to Nurture Your Child’s Positive Body Image (ARA) - With spring around the corner, kids, tweens and teens across the country will doff sweaters for tank tops and jeans for shorts. And as a parent, you may feel more conscious than ever of our society’s preoccupation with body image and how it affects your child. Just as concerning as the rise in childhood obesity is the rising number of children -- even very young children -- who are obsessed with being thin. “We see children as young as 6 years old complaining that their stomachs stick out, or bragging about having the chicken pox because it means going to bed without dinner, which means fewer calories,” says Carolyn Costin, director of The Eating Disorder Center of California and the Monte Nido Treatment Center. “Kids see their

moms and dads dieting and they want to diet too, even if they don’t need to.” While not every child dissatisfied with his or her appearance will develop an eating disorder like bulimia or anorexia nervosa, a poor body image can have a

serious, long-term impact on a child’s emotional well-being. So how do you help your daughter or son develop a healthy, realistic body image in a society obsessed with thin and beautiful? Costin offers some advice:

Know the Signs of a Problem First, parents need to be able to recognize when their child might have a serious problem. While the majority of young people with eating disorders are female, health professionals are seeing a rise in the number of boys and young men suffering from eating disorders and poor body image. Your child may have a problem if he or she: • Believes if you aren’t thin you aren’t attractive. • Thinks being thin is more important than being healthy. • Does anything to make themselves appear thinner -- buying clothes, cutting their hair, taking laxatives or starving themselves. • Feels guilty after eating or punishes herself after eating fattening foods. • Counts calories and severely restricts calorie intake. • Is obsessed with weighing himself daily or sometimes multiple times each continued on page 28

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Stress-Free Travel Tips

(NAPSI)-At a time when the need for rest and relaxation is high--and when isn’t it?--it’s important to make travel as stress-free as possible. Because travelers may be out of their element, unfamiliar with their surroundings or the local language, stress management on the road can be challenging. The key to stress-free travel is to be as knowledgeable and as well prepared as possible for whatever comes your way. Here are some travel tips that will help you avoid the most common travel stress hazards and help you decompress during your time away: • Knowledge is power: To know what to expect, research what’s going on in the destination(s) you plan to visit. The Internet is a rich source of information on weather, news and seasonal events around the world. If you’re traveling abroad, learn basic phrases of the local language--it can help you feel more in control. • Plan for the unexpected: Write down all the contact information you will need for your trip, including the numbers for your travel agent, airline, car rental, hotel and local contacts. Make photocopies of passports, driver’s license, travel tickets and credit card and travelers cheque num-

bers, and leave them behind with a trusted friend or family member who can make them available in the event of an emergency. • Carry a diversified wallet: Travelers should avoid large amounts of cash and instead carry a combination of payment options such as credit and charge cards, some local currency and American Express Travelers Cheques. These provide travelers with peace of mind, knowing that, unlike cash, Travelers Cheques are fully refundable if they are lost or stolen--usually within 24 hours. • Passport and credit card protection: American Express

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Travelers Cheques provide U.S. customers worldwide passport and credit card replacement services and emergency medical referral and assistance, even if they haven’t lost their cheques. • Book in advance: Whether it’s a special airline meal, a room with a view, excursions, spa treatments or babysitting services, book whatever you can ahead of time. It will minimize the possibility that the services you are looking forward to will be booked. continued on page 30

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2009 Spring Guide

Ready Your Ride for a Warm Weather Road Trip (MS) -- Few things exemplify the easygoing nature of spring and summer more than packing up the car and heading out on a road trip. Hitting the open road with the top down, pulling up to the beach and enjoying a carefree day in the sun is a timehonored tradition for motorists across the country once the warmer weather arrives. After all, who wants to worry about office workloads and catching up with household chores when there are more important things like barbecues to plan, and tan lines and travel plans to consider? One thing all motorists need to think about before they put the top down and tackle the open road is how road-trip-ready their car is and how it’s going to look and perform when it’s finally time to push the pedal to the metal. For the antsy motorist ready to leave work in the dust and hit the highway, consider the following tips to make sure your vehicle can have as good a trip as you do. • Wash your car: When hitting the beach for a weekend getaway, having a good-looking car is almost as important as looking good yourself. While a trip to the tanning salon won’t do your car any good, a thorough car wash will. Use two mitts to wash your car: one to wash the top and one for the gritty undercarriage so the big bits don’t scratch the paint in more visible areas. A quick wash removes not-sofriendly deposits from busy little birds, water spots from recreational areas, break dust that erodes the wheel surface, and all kinds of debris that dims your car’s shine over time. Use The Absorber to dry your car quickly -- you’ll be back having fun in no time at all, and it preserves the wax coat that protects paint from drying out under the hot summer sun. You can even use it to clean up interior spills on carpet 2009 Spring Guide

and upholstery, making the interior a safe place to venture despite sippy cups and sodas. • Be prepared for anything: Perhaps the biggest problem with flat tires is they always seem to come at the worst possible time. Before you duck out of the office early and start your weekend getaway, be sure you’re prepared for whatever pitfalls the road might present. Check the trunk and make sure you still have a spare tire and a jack ready to roll should they be needed. Because road trips are often a little raucous, be prepared for any accidents that might occur inside your vehicle as you continued on page 32

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Top 10 Spring Tips for Pet Owners (ARA) - Planting a garden, spring cleaning, fertilizing the lawn -- we all have lots of work to do with the coming of spring. But pets also have health and safety needs this time of year that their owners should know about. “I see it all the time in my clinic in the springtime. Animals get into fertilizers and pesticides, those used on a home or on a farm, and it makes the animals sick,” says Dr. James Cook, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “People need to be aware of these potential hazards. Along with better weather, the spring brings with it the use of a number of common lawn chemicals and the blooming of plants that can be hazardous to pets.” Here are the AVMA’s top 10 spring hints for pet owners:

Dr. Heather Case of the American Veterinary Medical Association applies a simple first-aid wrap for a patient at the home of one of her clients.

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• Fleas and ticks They can be tiny, little more than a pinhead in some instances, but they grow and spread quickly once they find a host. The preventative treatments that you may have discontinued in the winter should start early in the spring to keep your pet’s coat, and your home, free of pests. • Lawn fertilizers Lawn fertilizers are very toxic to pets. Store fertilizers in a place far from where your dog or cat -- and children-- can get at it. After applying it to your lawn, follow manufacturer instructions on how long you should wait before allowing your pet into the area. If you see a sign posted on a lawn that tells you to keep your pets off, abide by it.

• Pesticides and herbicides It’s probably not surprising that these chemicals can be toxic to your pets, but, even when they’re not lethal, there are some long-term health concerns. Studies indicate the use of pesticides and herbicides may be tied to increased rates of specific forms of cancer in dogs. If your pet is exposed, wash them with soap and water immediately and call your veterinarian. • Cocoa bean mulch It’s becoming common to mulch a garden with the fragrant spent shells of cocoa beans. But just like chocolate, dogs like to eat them and they are toxic. • Lilies Lilies are a flower common in the spring, and they are very, very toxic to cats. Cats will often chew them, and even small amounts can lead to kidney failure and death. • Rhubarb leaves Rhubarb makes a fine pie and it’s a staple in many vegetable gardens, but the leaves are poisonous and can cause kidney

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Top 10 Spring Tips for Pet Owners failure. For a complete list of plants and plantings that can be dangerous to pets, visit www.avma.org. • Rat and mouse poisons Controlling vermin becomes an issue again in the spring. Be aware that the same properties of common rat and mouse poisons that make them irresistible to pests will also attract your pet. If consumed, these can be fatal to your animal. • Cleaning products Spring cleaning is an annual tradition in many households, but make sure the cleaning products don’t hurt your animals. If the label states “keep pets and children away from area until dry” follow those instructions carefully, and store all chemicals out of reach of children and pets.

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• Paint and paint thinners If you’re putting a fresh coat of paint on the house, keep the pets away. Paint

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thinners, mineral spirits and other solvents can cause severe irritation or chemical burns if swallowed or even if they come in contact with your pet’s skin. Latex house paints typically produce a minor stomach upset, but some specialty paints may contain heavy metals or volatile substances that could be harmful if ingested. •Preventative medications Consult with your veterinarian about seasonal medications to keep your pet healthy. For example, in many parts of the country, heartworm medications for dogs are often discontinued in the winter. Springtime is the season to restart this medication to keep your dog free of this parasite. But keep in mind that manufacturer’s instructions warn that heartworm medications should not be given without first visiting your veterinarian to ensure that your pet has not developed the heartworm parasite. A simple blood test will give you that peace of mind. For more information, visit www.avma.org. For a fulllength video on common household poisons and hazards, visit www.avmatv.org. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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2009 Spring Guide

Bird Lovers Can Go Nuts for Squirrels Too

(ARA) - The battle begins every time a feeder goes up; homeowner versus squirrel, and it’s usually the squirrel who wins. For many outdoor wildlife lovers it seems nearly impossible to keep these cunning rapscallions from raiding their bird feeders. They’ve tried the squirrelproof feeders which the relentless squirrels manage to tackle. Placing feeders out of squirrels’ reach also seems like a logical solution, but it is much easier said than done. Although victory over the squirrels may appear impossible, there is a way to feed your beloved birds without the disturbance caused by these crafty creatures. Ever heard the phrase, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em”? It’s the perfect solution to a pesky relationship with furry backyard foes, and one that will soon have homeowners putting squirrels into the category of outdoor pets. Squirrels are hearty eaters, so why not offer them a feast all their own? Outdoor pet food producers such as Wild Delight make mixes specially designed for squirrels (such as Wild Delight Squirrel Food) that contain corn, sunflower seed, and whole peanuts -- things that squirrels love to munch. It is typically offered in a platform feeder or fed on the ground, but however the food is put out; the trick is to keep it away from bird feeders. When squirrels are

offered their own food, they are much less likely to bother with your bird feeders. Squirrels also love corn that is still on the cob. This “ear corn” can easily be affixed to a tree to keep squirrels on tree trunks and away from bird feeders. To prevent a mess, go with a premium brand like Wild Delight Corn On The Cob that has a low

moisture content to help prevent molding. Along with offering squirrels their own dining experience, bird watchers can also fill their feeders with seeds that squirrels are indifferent toward. Nyjer is great for all types of finches, but squirrels ignore it. Fill feeders with a product such as Nyjer Seed from Wild Delight, which has been sterilized to help prevent fallen seeds from germinating into weeds. Generic brands don’t usually offer this protection. Safflower seed, which cardinals and chickadees love, is another good choice to deter squirrels. It has a bitter taste that

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squirrels (as well as nuisance birds like grackles and starlings) will avoid. Suet is another option. Lovable birds such as nuthatches and woodpeckers enjoy suet very much, but squirrels typically ignore it. Brands like Wild Delight even offer different kinds of suet flavors to attract different kinds of desirable birds. If your squirrel conflict calls for drastic measures, capsaicin, the burning chemical in hot peppers, is effective at repelling squirrels from bird food. It has the same effect on them that it does on humans -- fiery mouth, watering eyes, etc. However, birds are virtually unresponsive to it. Whereas this method of warfare on squirrels has been successful, homeowners might want to think twice before deploying this, especially if they have small children and pets who could be irritated by it. Offering squirrels their own food and place to eat in the yard is safer and more convenient (plus, you don’t have to wear gloves). By offering squirrels a place all their own in the back yard, homeowners will be able to enjoy their feathered friends at the same time as they enjoy the antics of their furry new pals. Their acrobatics, playful nature and surprising tameness will have squirrels joining wild birds as outdoor pets that homeowners love. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Food Trends Coming to a Neighborhood Near You Food is a necessity to sustain life. However, we place many different emphases on food other than keeping us hustling and bustling. Today’s culture of foodies is more particular than ever about what they eat and why. As such, trends continue to emerge in the realm of food availability and preparation. Here are some trends you may see in your area. Glammed-Up Grocery Stores The institutional-like grocery store layouts and designs of the past are making way for newer shopping experiences. While the 1990s were about packing many conveniences into the grocery store, such as dry cleaning, banking and other services, new stores strive to make shopping a recreational experience. Traditional aisle layouts are giving way to an “open market” feel, and you’re more likely to find specialty food bars, soft lighting and upscale wood flooring to make the store a special retreat.

Emphasis on Local and Organic People are taking notice of what they put in their shopping carts and on their dinner tables. As the world turns more eco-conscious, shoppers want to know

more about the foods they eat. The growing popularity of organic foods has pushed supermarket chains to offer a

greater variety of organic foods. To meet the needs of budget-conscious shoppers, some chains are even marketing their own brand of organic foods that are supposed to be more affordable than other pricey organics. Interest in locally grown products has also reached new heights. Shoppers are more conscious of how far foods have to be shipped to reach their supermarkets, and local produce is a “greener” option. The term “locavore,” for a person who seeks locally grown and produced foods, was actually designated as the New Oxford American Dictionary new word of 2007. Nutraceuticals on the Rise Food based health cures are also a trend that continues to grow in popularity. Foods are doing double duty in many instances, providing nutrition as well as added health benefits. For example, the active bacteria in yogurt has long been known to offer certain health advantages. Probiotics are being added to yogurts for other stomach-friendly effects. Other foods that claim to do continued on page 33

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2009 Spring Guide

Navigating Spring Feasts Without Sacrificing Your Health

(ARA) - Backyard barbecues, game-day dining and vacation cuisine - spring is filled with opportunities to enjoy food and fun in the sun. But it’s also rife with risk for anyone trying to eat healthy. “It’s not uncommon for people to associate the holidays with a highrisk time, but warm weather also brings unique challenges for those trying to eat well,” says Karen Miller-Kovach, chief scientific officer of Weight Watchers International. It is possible to greet spring with your good intentions - and your waistline - intact. Here’s advice for dealing with some food-related obstacles commonly faced during this busy time. Avoid the Party Binge “Humans are social animals and eating is a very social experience,” Miller-Kovach notes. “That’s why we tend to eat more at parties - plus, warm-weather celebrations usually serve up a variety of treats that we don’t usually get throughout the year.” Before you head out to a backyard barbecue or spring party, dine at home on healthy fare that will keep you feeling full, like lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables. Curbing your appetite ahead of time will help you keep control at the party.

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Navigating Spring Feasts

continued from page 21 Instead, pack your own goodies - like almonds, apples or even baby carrots. Flying? Airport delays are not uncommon and same goes here plan ahead to avoid eating airport food and pack your own snacks so that you are in control. For instance, Weight Watchers subscribers can use tools like the new Weight Watchers Mobile, to help them track their food options and maintain their weight loss efforts while on the go.

Go light on cocktails. Alcohol has a lot of empty calories. Opt for spritzers - sparkling soda water and some fruit flavors - as a healthful alternative to spirits. Be Mindful When on the Road If you’re dining out a lot while on vacation, it may be hard to stick to your weight loss plan. But there are ways to minimize the damage of restaurant eating. First, skip the appetizer. Appetizers are often fried and can pack more calories than the entrée. Second, watch out for calorie overload that’s caused by eating the entire portion normally served in restaurants. If you’re getting full, try not to clean your plate; eat only half of what you’re served and take home the rest. If you’re taking long drives, avoid buying snacks along the way.

Spring into Health A scientifically-based approach to weight loss, such as Weight Watchers Meetings and Weight Watchers Online, can provide you with the tools and information you need to embark on a healthy lifestyle, lose weight and keep it off. Visit www. WeightWatchers.com for more information. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Bryant House ��

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The Vermont Country Store Cabot Cheddar off the big wheel, grilled to golden brown, with bacon and tomatoes.

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Tender juicy slices of honey maple turkey breast in a generous sandwich, topped with lettuce and cranberry sauce �� Tender chunks of chicken breast tossed with walnuts, orange, chives and celery. We suggest trying this open faced on our homemade johnnycake. �� Maple ham served open-faced with tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, honey mustard and melted Vermont Country Store Cabot Cheddar cheese. �� Honey maple ham and turkey with Vermont Country Store Cabot Cheddar dipped in French toast batter and grilled golden brown. Served with pure Vermont maple syrup for dipping. �� Grilled portabella mushrooms, roasted red peppers, Mediterranean medley, assorted veggies, topped with melted Cheddar and organic sprouts.

A Vermont tradition: chicken, peas, onions, celery, and carrots in gravy topped with homemade biscuits; served with cranberry sauce and cole slaw.

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Hot Yankee pot roast, topped with its own savory brown gravy, accompanied by crispy French fries and cole slaw.

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Fired over charcoal, our 5 oz. burgers are made from beef that’s ground fresh for us daily, and served on a sesame seed bun with tomato, lettuce, onion. �� Three golden griddlecakes made from our own Buttermilk Pancake Mix and served with your choice of crispy bacon or country sausage patties and pure Vermont maple syrup.

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Day or our own Clam Chowder, served with our Common Crackers®.

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Vermont Country Store Clam Chowder served with homemade johnnycake and a tossed salad.

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fresh greens and seasonal vegetables, Vermont Cheddar, and hardboiled eggs. Choose sliced turkey and maple smoked ham or tender slices of charbroiled chicken breast. ��

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Simple Ways to Nurture Your Child’s Positive Body Image day. • Believes you can never be too thin. • Thinks that being thin and not eating are signs of will power and success.

a healthy body image is to lead by example, Costin says. Children who hear their parents criticize themselves for being too fat will be more likely to think poorly of their own bodies. “Avoid saying negative things about your own or other people’s bodies, and work hard at promoting healthy body esteem,” she says. “This may be difficult, especially if your own mother was not

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a good role model of a healthy body image.” If you suspect your own body image and habits are not providing a healthful role model for your child, ask yourself How to Foster a Healthier Body if you would want her to imitate your Image dietary and exercise habits or self-image. Would you send her off in the morning The single most important way with nothing but a cup of coffee? Would parents can help their children develop you tell him to have a bad day if he gets on the scale and has gained a pound? “Your answers may �� surprise you,” Costin says. Help children find �� constructive ways to be �� healthy, including maintaining �� a good diet and regular physical activity. Share healthful pursuits, such as �� learning to cook nutritious � meals together, with your �� child. But be sure to go out for ice cream too; balance �� is the key. Help with and �� praise creative endeavors, and applaud small but meaningful internal accomplishments, like �� her ability to remain calm, his �� quick wit, his sense of humor, �� her empathy for others. �� Stay alert to changes in eating �� habits and body image and be prepared to intervene. Parents �� need to actively help their �� children find constructive �� ways to feel successful, �� accomplish something and �� earn the respect, attention and �� admiration so important to �� teens. �� If you suspect your child has �� an eating disorder, seek help immediately. Log on to www. �� montenido.com or www. �� CarolynCostin.com to learn �� more. �� Courtesy of ARAcontent �� 28

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2009 Spring Guide

Digital TV Transition Delayed Until June. Are You Prepared? Q: Will my current television still work with off-air signals after June 12, 2009? A: Yes, as long as you have a digital TV converter box and an appropriate antenna. In general, if your antenna works well with analog signals, it will possibly work with digital signals that are in the same television band (low-VHF, highVHF, or UHF). Q:What specific techniques can I use to determine if my current television antenna is acceptable for digital reception or whether a new antenna is required? A: In general, if your current antenna (outdoor or indoor) provides good or excellent reception quality, that antenna should be acceptable for DTV reception. This presumes that the current antenna covers the same television bands (low-VHF, high-VHF, UHF) that are being used by the digital stations. Q: Is there such a thing as a “digital” antenna or an “HDTV” antenna? A: No. While the box in which the antenna is sold may be called “DTV Antenna” or

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“HDTV Antenna”, the analog and digital television signals can be picked up (i.e., received) with the same antenna. The complete IEEE FAQ can be found online at www. IEEE.org. Additionally, the FCC has issued a number of very helpful consumer advisories on the DTV transition at: www.dtv.gov/publications.html. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Stress-Free Travel Tips • Know your added benefits: American Express Card members are provided additional peace of mind against emergencies while traveling, thanks to American Express’ Global Assist Hotline, which provides 24/7 emergency referral service on everything from local medical and legal providers to emergency cash. Another tip is to exchange your money before you leave. American Express Travelers Cheques are available in many currencies, including euros, Canadian dollars, Australian dollars and Japanese yen, and can be purchased before leav-

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ing the U.S. These cheques are available at more than 88,000 U.S. locations, including banks, credit unions and American Express Travel Service locations, as well as online. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com/travelerscheques. The key to stress-free travel is to be as knowledgeable and as well prepared as possible for whatever comes your way.

Stop... Shop...

$ALEM, NY! Lauraʼs Garden

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A Hersam Acorn Newspapers publication

2009 Spring Guide

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A Hersam Acorn Newspapers publication

Ready Your Ride

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head on your merry way. The Dash Gear removes dust, fingerprints, smudges and puts the finishing touches on the interior, making a car that’s just gone through the road-tripringer look as good as new with little effort at all. For quick touch-ups on the road, The Glosser is a threelayered microfiber with wash and wax in the middle layer, cleaning and polishing in one fell swoop and ensuring your car’s pre-trip wash holds up as long as you do. What’s more, The Glosser comes five to a pack, and its slim packaging makes it a perfect fit in the glove compartment or under a seat, leaving room for more important stuff like beach

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chairs and bathing suits. • Get a tune-up: Nothing can ruin a spring road trip more than a broken-down vehicle. After a harsh or even a mild winter, your car deserves a tune-up, and you deserve a reliable car when you hit the road. Make sure the battery has plenty of juice, the tires are properly inflated and that there’s fresh oil in the engine. For more information on the products mentioned, call CleanTools at 1-800-654-3933. Or visit your favorite WalMart, Target, Kmart, or automotive retailer for purchase.

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2009 Spring Guide

Food Trends Coming to a Neighborhood Near You everything from reducing cholesterol to revving up energy are making their way onto store shelves.

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2009 Spring Guide

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Whole Grains Hoopla Shoppers are looking for whole grains in their foods and more products are becoming available. Whole grain cereals, pastas, rices, and breads are just as popular at stores as their white flour counterparts. Also expect to see exotic grains, such as amaranth, quinoa, teff, millet, and Kamut to go mainstream. TF091703

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Say Bye-Bye to Bottled Water Again, as people look to green alternatives for their lifestyles, they’re realizing that bottled water may not fit into that plan. The fact that so many discarded plastic water bottles end up

in landfills rather than in recycling bins and that many “spring fresh” water brands are no better for you than water straight from the tap, is causing people to rethink bottled water. Expect to find a greater number of people turning to filter units that hook up to kitchen sinks, or simply taking a swig straight from the tap.

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A Full Line of

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• WORMS • • GAS • DRINKS & MORE! •

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�� 216 Northside Drive • Bennington, Vermont 802-442-3267 Open 6 Days A Week

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A Hersam Acorn Newspapers publication

2009 Spring Guide

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