Regina Lewis

Deadly Tech-Trifecta *** Dangerous Digital Moms

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-16T09:22:00+00:00

Filed under: Tips

The story of the Woman Indicted in MySpace Suicide Case, has a lot of tragic & far too common twists and turns. An apparently deadly trifecta of vulnerable teens, not-so-tech-savvy moms and bad judgement. The girls were young (cyberbullying is common as early as age 9) .... One mom let her child have a MySpace account before she was old enough & the other apparently borrowed the tech skills of her 19-year-old assistant to forge a page .... And, I worry- frankly - sometimes technology skews our judgement. Anonymity can be a dangerous thing.

We look forward to continuing to help raise awareness re: CyberBullying. You may be surprised who is doing it.

IMPORTANT TIPS

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Make Money Answering Text Messages

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-16T07:50:00+00:00

Filed under: Web 2.0, TV

This service is getting rave reviews. I tested it overnight & it works like a charm. This morning on WPIX in NYC we talked about how you can become a "guide" on this service .... working as little as 15 minutes at a time. They're recruiting -- go for it! Previously interviewed the founder of this site, and the human search concept is really pretty compelling.

Mobile Search Guide - www.chacha.com

ChaCha is a FREE cell phone search engine, where users call, text or e-mail a real, live human being with a question and he or she quickly researches it for you, delivering a snippet of personalized advice along with the single best Web site link to your mobile phone. I got mine in a matter of seconds. ChaCha's live guides are sitting at home or in a dorm room making money assisting you in your search. They answer questions on just about any topic imaginable - What's the weather in X area going to be?; Where can I find the cheapest gas?; Who won the game last night?, etc.

ChaCha.com pays "guides" up to $10 per hour spent searching for answers. The more efficient you are, the more you make. The service currently has about 8,000 freelance "guides" across the country and says that about 10 percent are logged on at any given time. The guides can sign in whenever they want, but the company says it works out that at least 500 are always online. Most of the guides are college students, stay-at-home parents or retired.

(ChaCha plans to make money via advertising and through deals with wireless carriers).

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

eJury: You as Judge Judy

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-16T07:23:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, TV

As discussing on WPIX Channel 11 in NYC today, there are 130,000 registered e-jurors. Virtual jurors get paid approx $5 to $10 per verdict depending on the complexity of the case. Cases are assigned by county, so the more lawyers in your area using a service like eJury, the more cases available to you. This is cash you can't count on, but it's interesting work if & when it comes your way.

Behind this is a shift in pre-trial research with virtual juries becoming one of the newest tools. They're helping lawyers develop their courtroom presentations and make strategic decisions around selecting jurors and calculating settlements . Makes perfect sense to tap into collective intelligence.

After registering on the site & accepting an "oath," eJurors are assigned cases. The facts of each case are presented online, along with any visuals (i.e. diagrams, video, etc.) or other relevant information. eJurors read the "Plaintiff's" and "Defendants" perspectives and ultimately answer a series of "Jury Questions," designed to gauge how the case may play out in court.

The company tells me approx. 90% of the cases are "Civil," such as product liability, medical malpractice, personal injury, auto collisions, employment claims, family law (divorce & custody issues), civil rights & business litigation. Only 10% are "criminal" cases such as capital murder, sexual assault. Either way, your inner Judge-Judy should be well satisfied.

www.ejury.com//

Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

How to Look Thinner in Photos *** Best Tips on Internet

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-16T02:10:00+00:00

Filed under: Entertainment

We're updating this popular post because there's a terrific new online article titled EIGHT WAYS TO LOOK BETTER IN PHOTOS. There's MUST READ info re: looking younger, less shiny & blemishy in photos -- it's all about the lighting & they've got super savvy ways to rig it, including using a flash in daylight, a white napkin over the flash (news to me!) and using the brush icon on most photo programs to virtually brush over age-revealing wrinkles. Never knew what that icon was for. Consider it my new favorite:)

And there's more .... Here's great collection of some of the best tips have ever seen on this all-important topic: looking-thin-in-photos. And, THIS CAMERA MAKES YOU LOOK TEN POUNDS THINNER.

At some point, nothing works, but a professional Photographer said something once that stuck with me .... "Strike the Princess Di pose." At first had no idea what he meant, but then got image in head of the head-tilted-down-look-up-slightly signature pose she always gave. She must have done it a million times & she did it with such grace. So, instead of trying to remember the mechanics (many of which are included in the switched.com list), maybe we should just remember HER ... particularly as she was photographed by Mario Testino in this edition of Vanity Fair.

Can't sell your house? ... Swap it!

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-16T01:20:00+00:00

Filed under: Web 2.0, Shopping Advice, Lifestyle, Small Business

The large downturn in real estate is leaving a record number of homes on the market ... Some frustrated sellers are getting creative, using sites like onlinehousetrading.com to connect with other sellers who might agree to "swap" -- or buy one another's property.

While the idea of trading houses temporarily for vacations has long existed, permanent house swapping is a new trend ... and www.onlinehousetrading.com is one of six such launched sites. The sites do not complete the transactions, they simply play matchmaker, similar to the role of an online dating site by aggregating a large number of properties & analyzing their "swap criteria."

Finding the right match is one thing, but finalizing the transaction can be a bit complicated ... OnlineHouseTrading recommends both clients agree to use one title company & recognize the deal's not done "until everyone signs off."

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Stores Offer to Stretch Your Rebate Check!

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-14T13:16:00+00:00

Filed under: Tips , Shopping Advice

A new survey out by the National Retail Federation indicates consumers will most likely spend their economic stimulus checks to pay for necessities like gas and groceries. With prices for both steadily on the rise, makes sense. It's not stopping some major retailers and e-tailers from rolling out big incentives, hoping to make you think twice about where and how to spend your rebate. Circuit City, Home Depot, Sears, Radio Shack and many others are offering rebate-themed "discounts" and promotions.

Consumers are pondering ways
to spend stimulus rebate checks.

Here's a look at a few of the stimulus check shopping deals out there:

Sears and Kmart: Offering 10% bonus to every customer who converts an entire check into a gift card at one of the stores. So a $250 rebate check gets you a $250 gift card and another for $25. The gift cards can be redeemed at any Sears, Kmart or Lands' End retail stores or online at sears.com or landsend.com. The promotion is scheduled to last from May 14 to July 19, 2008.

Staples.com: Staples.com is offering special coupon codes designed to stretch your rebate check.

Overstock.com: Plans to offer consumers a discount coupon, likely in the range of 7% to 10%, redeemable in a one-day event at Overstock.com. The date isn't yet determined, but when the date is selected, Overstock will promote the event and coupon via e-mail, through its affiliates, and, most likely, on its website.

Zonder.com: The vacation rental Web site is offering 10% off bookings of $600 or more and 15% off bookings of $1,200 or more. You have to book by August 1st and use the promo code "taxes" during checkout. Such blatant marketing, it's almost funny. But, hey .... money in the bank probably does up the odds you'll think about going away.

RadioShack: Use your stimulus check or IRS tax refund on any $50 or more purchase at RadioShack and get 10% off that purchase. The unspent portion of your check is converted into a prepaid Vision Silver MasterCard that can be used at any store. Sounds like they thought this one through in enough time to line up a credit card partner.

Walmart: Offering to cash your stimulus check for free. They usually charge about $3 to cash a check. No purchase is required to take advantage, but if you do some spending at Walmart, keep and eye out for special offers on groceries ... They've lowered prices on a number of grocery items to help customers get more for their rebates. According to money saving blog WalletPop.com, the more deals Walmart offers, the more we all benefit from bigger price drops at competing stores. Walmart even launched a special site to educate consumers on smarter spending - www.savemoneylivebetter.com.

Note: Some retailers require you bring the actual stimulus check into the store, while others are not requiring proof of stimulus checks.

How will you spend your check? Tell the world online at www.howispentmystimulus.com - click on the "Tell Your Story" tab.

Find more stimulus check deals, including deals offered by a number of grocery chains, check out DealNews.com.

Related article: As Stimulus Checks Go Out, Stores Want the Whole Check

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Chris Berman Loses It

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-14T10:42:00+00:00

Filed under: TV

Again, the Videologists have outdone themselves with this video of Chris Berman absolutely losing it on Monday Night Football. They say no one knows why this video has suddenly surfaced eight years after it happened. Am not naming names, but can tell ya, this kind of thing happens more often than you may think. TV can be a fairly intense business ... ;) Fair warning: Explicit language.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

CNN HEADLINE NEWS: Video Resumes Stand out in Tough Job Market

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-14T03:27:00+00:00

Filed under: As Seen On TV

Aways enjoyable to speak with the ever-stunning Robin Meade .... Here's what we covered today with some additional notes. Hope helpful.

Last year, seven out of ten college grads posted resumes online Rapid growth in online video has sparked the next big trend: VIDEO RESUMES. There are some clear Do's & Don't, but if you're looking to go the extra mile, it could be a savvy way to stand out.

Check it out ... - R

These DEMOS tell the story ... www.careerbuilder.com.

The following DO's & DON'T are also excerpted AOL Jobs/CareerBuilder.

Do's

Dress professionally; treat this video resume like you would a first job interview.
Introduce yourself; let the employer know who you are.
Be concise; rule of thumb: keep your video between 1-3 minutes long. Time flies by when you are taping it, but not when an employer is watching.
Make eye contact & be enthusiastic; show off your personality & let employer see how excited you are not in just words, but your tone & body language.
Focus on results; tell employers what quantifiable results you've delivered for other companies & what you can do for them.
Be thankful; don't forget to end your video by thanking the employer for their time.
Practice runs; get used to talking in front of the camera. Try writing down your thoughts and practicing it in front of a mirror to get a feel for your facial expressions.
Use a Tripod; keep the camera on a level area to avoid bouncing & image streaking.
Tape a few seconds; then check it out to make sure the lighting, background & sound are ok.

Don'ts

Dress in casual clothes; this is your first impression - make it a good one.
Just start right in; take a moment to establish who you are & why they should continue to watch.
Tell your life story; keep the information relevant to the job & industry you are applying for.
Read from a script; no one wants to watch you read from a script behind the camera.
Just read your resume; employers want to know more about than what is on your resume - here's your chance.
Go overboard; if you are running long on time, take a 2nd look to see what you can leave out. Don't just cut it off without saying a quick summary or thanks.
Forget to review; take a look at what you've taped to make sure its good on time, sounds and background. We want to see & hear you clearly!
Hold the camera; no tripod? Get creative with a stack books or boxes.
Waste your time; Be sure to do a test tape & verify we can see and hear you clearly.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

The Dish on Top Baby Names of 2007

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-14T03:19:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Tips

This came to our attention via ParentDish , a well-written blog re: all-things parenting. You may have also heard it on the news ... The U.S. Social Security Administration has released its list of the top baby names for 2007 (they've been keeping tabs since 1850). Topping the list for girls (for the 11th year in a row) - Emily ... The top name for boys - Jacob, for the 9th straight year. Also popular, Michael, Ethan, Isabella and Emma. Plus, my personal fave -- Ava.

And according the SSA, "For reasons likely to puzzle baby name experts around the world, American parents have become infatuated by names, particularly for their sons, that rhyme with the word 'maiden," the agency says. This is kind of wild.

These names for boys include: Jayden (No. 18); Aiden (No. 27); Aidan (No. 54); Jaden (No. 76); Caden (No. 92); Kaden (No. 98); Ayden (No.102); Braden (No.156); Cayden (No.175); Jaiden (No.191); Kaiden (No. 220); Aden (No. 264); Caiden (No. 286); Braeden (No. 325); Braydon (No. 361); Jaydon (No. 415); Jadon (No. 423); Braiden (No. 529); Zayden (No. 588); Jaeden (No. 593); Aydan (No. 598); Bradyn (No. 629); Kadin (No. 657); Jadyn (No. 696); Kaeden (No. 701); Jaydin (No. 757); Braedon (No. 805); Aidyn (No. 818); Haiden (No. 820); Jaidyn (No. 841); Kadyn (No. 878); Jaydan (No. 887); Raiden (No. 931); and Adin (No. 983).

For girls, they include: Jayden (No. 172); Jadyn (No. 319); Jaden (No. 335); Jaiden (No. 429); Kayden (No. 507); and Jaidyn (No. 561).

To see how your name and/or the names of your current & future children fared, click here. Wondering what's in a name anyway ... find out the meaning behind the names.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Map My Run

Libby — 2008-05-14T01:55:00+00:00

Filed under: Lifestyle

Whether you're serious runner or just trying to shed some extra pounds, this clever tool helps make whatever you're working toward more tangible. The site uses Google mapping technology to plot your jogging route and track your mileage. Set precise distance markers and map out any stops for stretching, restrooms, or water along the way. You can save your map and share it with your exercise buddies. Start plotting, running & bragging ... .;)

www.MapMyRun.com

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Diet.com -- Calorie Counts on the Fly

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-13T06:10:00+00:00

Filed under: Educational Help, Health, Radio

This is a fun one, as discussed on radio with the very gracious Wags & Elliot on Ohio's WLVQ FM last week & in on KVIL-FM in Dallas today with Gene & Julie ... Picture this: You're at one of 1700 restaurants nationwide, one of the 36,000 item menus listed has a "healthy heart" next to it. To be clear, it often has NOTHING to do with calories. If you're an old-fashion believer in calories in & calories out (simple math), this new online mobile tool may be for you.

Have tested it all week & the instant results are truly instant. They call it, "Nutrition on the GO." I call it avoid crazy mistakes ... You send text message to Diet1 (34381) -- same drill as voting on American Idol. You type in the menu item (e.g, Subway 6 inch tuna sub ...) They text you right back with key -- & frankly staggering stats -- 530 calories (imagine when you have 12 inch!); carbs 45g: protein 22g; fat 31g. Then, you can make an educated call. I'm swearing of them. Am a 6-12" veggie girl ... Not that it's anything to brag about!

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

e-HAGGLING -- First, GOOGLE. Then, HAGGLE.

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-13T04:23:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Tips , Business , Shopping Advice

Webster's Dictionary defines the word "haggle" as "to annoy or exhaust with wrangling." Makes it sounds a little harsh, but hey if it nets you a bargain ... game on.

Many shoppers may be unaware of Amazon.com's Post-Order Price Guarantee.

It varies by retailer, but you'll likely find very few stores will price match Internet prices, particularly from sites that maintain solely an online presence. Some stores may not even match their own Internet prices. Doesn't mean it's not worth price comparison shopping on the fly, even if it means leaving the item behind vs haggling. You can check prices on millions of items from more than 11,000 retailers on your cellphone at wap.aol.com/shopping.

In the case of Walmart, they do not honor pricing from Walmart.com. But both Circuit City and BestBuy say they will match prices from their web site, providing the same item is in stock at a store near you. And if you buy online and a few days later see the item available in-store at a lower price, you may also have some recourse there.

When items are marked "online only" or "web special," it's spelled out pretty clearly, they're probably not going to honor the same price in store - and may not even have the item in stock at your local store. If you're a really good haggler, you might be able to work some magic, but don't count on it.

According to a recent New York Times article, on stocked items "Most store policies on bargaining are informal. Some major retailers, however, are quietly telling their salespeople that negotiating is acceptable."

Do your homework. Compare prices at multiple stores and check for online deals before you buy. Start your search on a comparison shopping site, find your bargain, print it and take it to the store as evidence to support your haggle. (Make sure it's an apples-to-apples comparison - in other words, it has to be the exact product they have in-store).

Again, mobile comparison shopping tool can work to your advantage, allowing you to compare prices on millions of products via your cell phone, while you're in the store. Try showing the results on your cell screen to the salesperson ... it may move the needle in your direction.

When haggling, if you're dealing with a salesperson who works on commission, you're likely to have more success - or plan B, find a manager who has sales goals to meet.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Jenna's Wedding pics on the Web

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-12T04:47:00+00:00

Filed under: Lifestyle

Jenna and Henry's wedding pictures have hit the Web, allowing us a controlled (can you blame them?) look into the first daughter's Saturday wedding on the Bush family's 1600-acre ranch near Crawford, TX. About 200 guest were invited to the ceremony, which President Bush said was "all that we could hope for." Jenna's twin sister, Barbara was maid of honor. I think it's classy, they didn't do something totally over-the-top, especially since -- apparently -- historically it's good for Presidential approval ratings. They seemed to have taken an admirable high road.

The newlyweds first dance was to Taj Mahal's "Lovin' In My Baby's Eyes." Get a live look and listen to the song here ... and check out the lyrics. Sticking to our knitting, we should tell you wedding planning is HUGE online. To say there are a ton of resources, would be an understatement. Here's one related blog: AisleDash.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Summer Camp Sticker Shock

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-09T01:37:00+00:00

Filed under: Shopping Advice, Kids, Lifestyle

According to a recent post by money saving blog WalletPop.com, many parents have put off signing their kids up for summer camp this year. Must admit, I'm one of them. A weak economy and high camp prices can't help but make you look twice & reconsider. Indeed, we may be suffering from Summer Camp Sticker Shock.

Our childcare system works well in Summer, but -- must say -- it takes some logistical prowess to crack the off-school calendar code, especially if you're a working parent &/or juggling other caregiving & community efforts. If you're creative and do a little homework, you can find some low-cost summer camps or alternative programs in your community.

Here are some tips:
- Some camps offer discounts for early sign-up (better hurry!)
- Camps affiliated w/ non-profits like YMCA or the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts) will be cheaper.
- Opt. for a Day Camp vs. a Sleep Away camp - find & compare camps at www.acacamps.org
- Nearly two-thirds of camps offer camper scholarships or financial aid. Many others allow parents to spread payments over the course of a year.
- Ask about discounts for enrolling more than one child.

More money saving tips: eHaggling - Your Mouse as a Bargaining Chip.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Get Rich or Die Tryin'

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-08T03:49:00+00:00

Filed under: Web 2.0, Celebrity, Lifestyle

The folks at this new luxury blog brought this to our attention ... It's the ultimate green house, potentially generating more energy than it actually uses. A negative carbon footprint:) Bratt Pitt is rumored to be potential buyer. Given the cost per square foot (not to mention cost of getting there), it's got to be a short list, but perhaps sign of things to come ... Take a look:

www.Luxou.com
(Get Rich or Die Tryin')

Related Posts: Over-the-top Luxury
&
Smart Mower

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Facebook in Reality *** MUST SEE VIDEO

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-08T02:31:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Lifestyle

As discussed on WSJ Radio today .... This may be one of my all-time favorite viral videos ... It's called "Facebook in Reality." It starts with a guy knocking on an old friend's door & from there it essentially mirrors and -- for lack of a better word -- "pokes" fun at the virtual Facebook experience. It is a total riot with lots of "Confirm" or "ignore" interruptions. The ever-controversial "Relationship Status" is especially clever. Am told changing your status is the way young people let other people know they're "available." If you're an adult & you change your status, you get condolence notices! Enjoy the video ... It really is a "must see" (disclaimer: some racy language).

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

FOX NEWS: CAR TALK -- Save Thousands in Minutes!

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-07T04:57:00+00:00

Filed under: As Seen On TV, Shopping Advice

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

eHAGGLING -- Your Mouse as a Bargaining Chip

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-07T03:29:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Tips , Shopping Advice

With the economy on shaky ground, more Americans are pulling out all the stops to stretch their dollars further. This includes haggling for lower prices on everything from cars, to new flat screen TVs, furniture, home improvement products ... even clothing. But did you know, your mouse may be one of the best bargaining chips of all? It's called "e-Haggling."'

THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ALL OF US ... WE BUY AN ITEM AND THE VERY NEXT WEEK THE PRICE DROPS OR IT GOES ON SALE . BUT IT'S NOT GAME OVER?

www.priceprotectr.com

Most retailers offer what are called "price protection" policies, where they promise to refund a portion of your purchase price, if the product you bought drops in price within a certain time frame after you buy it. A typical period of time is 30 days. At PriceProtectr.com, they watch prices so you don't have to; if an item drops in price after you purchase it, they'll notify you by email so you can get a refund of the difference. To use the service, just enter the URL for the item you purchased.

AND THERE'S A SITE THAT WORKS IN SIMILAR FASHION FOR AIRFARES?
www.yapta.com - "Your Amazing Personal Travel Assistant"
All major airlines offer what is called the "guaranteed airfare policy," which means you're eligible for a refund if the fare price decreases. Plug your email address and itinerary into Yapta.com (before or after you book) and it will alert you if/when prices drop. Even after deducting any change fee that may be levied by the airline, if the $400 round trip ticket you purchased is suddenly $200, you might have $150+ bucks headed your way - usually the money comes by way of a travel voucher you can use on a future trip.

ONE OF THE LATEST WAYS TO E-HAGGLE IS WITH OUR CELL PHONE?
Wireless E-Haggling: At wap.aol.com/shopping there's a mobile comparison shopping tool where you can compare prices on nearly 12 million products right on your cell phone, while you're in the store. Try showing that to the salesperson ... it could move the needle in your direction.

SHOPPING FOR A NEW OR USED CAR ... ALSO POPULAR ONLINE ... SOME TIPS THERE FOR GETTING THE BEST DEAL?

75% of car shoppers start their search online ... and spring/summer is a popular time to buy a new set of wheels. Your best bet is to start out on a major autos site like autos.aol.com ... Once you find the make/model you're after, your next move should be to email the dealer for an anonymous no obligation price quote. Chances are, they're going to give you a competitive price ... after all, they want you to show up to the lot on Saturday. On the other hand, if their price seems a little high to you, email back and let them know ... Tell them you're also waiting on quotes from other dealers. If they want your business, they'll likely respond with their best price.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Virtual Wedding Planner: AisleDash.com

Jeff Corbett — 2008-05-06T01:56:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Tips , Lifestyle , Business , Shopping Advice

Wedding season is fast-approaching and brides- and grooms-to-be are working feverishly to button up details on everything from flower arrangements and honeymoon plans, to bachelor parties and bridesmaid dresses. For those feeling a little lost in the fray, there's help online from people who've been there, done that. #1 piece of personal advice: Enjoy every second.

The writers at Wedding blog AisleDash, serve up daily doses of advice, helpful info. and picture galleries to help ease the stress of planning for the big day. The site covers weddings from just about every angle - etiquette (never under-estimate), gifts & registries, cakes & catering, invites, rings, fashion, bridal bloopers and more.

With today's average wedding costing nearly $30,000 (that's not including the honeymoon!), you'll want to check out AisleDash's regular posts on "budget advice," like these tips for buying bridesmaids dresses online: Shopping Online for Bridesmaids Gowns: 4 Rules to Follow. And there's no shortage of DIY wedding advice, including: Virtual Scrapbooking, DIY Wedding Program Fans, An Eco-friendly Wedding without Breaking the Bank.

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

FOX News Channel -- Smart Car Shopping

Regina Lewis — 2008-05-06T01:03:00+00:00

Filed under: Trends, Tips , TV , Shopping Advice

We were back talking cars this weekend ... It was really nice to to catch up in-person with the extremely talented Clayton Morris. You're hard-pressed not to like the guy .... www.ClaytonMorris.com. We compared iPhone habits & got Rich Reichmuth to admit he's a blackberry addict.

When was there, Rich hid Courtney Friel's shoe ... Hey, you've got to humor yourself off-camera ...:)

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments