Anne Chekal

Saying thank you on Mother's Day does not have to cost a lot. Here are a few inexpensive gift suggestions guaranteed to make Mom smile on Mother's Day.

The cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, Denver, Washington, D.C., St. Louis, San Francisco, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, and Boston named most literate cities of 2007.

Choosing the right wine or beer to best complement food at a holiday party is easy with consideration of personal taste and an understanding of what tastes good together.

Families can get into the holiday spirit at festive events throughout southeast Connecticut. Here is a sampling of upcoming events.

The seasonal Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Harvest Ale is a crisp and tasty autumn beer worth trying.

Research indicates that higher levels of Vitamin D intake through food sources or supplements may help decrease high breast density, a breast cancer risk factor.

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner doesn't have to be a stress-filled endeavor once you let go of overly-high expectations.

General operating grants provide flexibility for nonprofit organizations but are among the most difficult to obtain. Here are suggestions for successfully getting a general operating grant request fun...

Children grow up quickly upon entering preschool, and some basic knowledge about what goes on in the class room can help parents adjust to the changes in their children.

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner does not have to be a stressful endeavor. Here are a few tips for a smoother meal.

Women can celebrate Mother-in-Law Day on October 28 with ten inexpensive but heartfelt gifts suggestions.

Using environmentally safe cleaning products is another step households can take to protect the planet. Seventh Generation dishwashing gel is one such product, but unfortunately, it does not always do...

No matter what the desired first date vibe, a perfect restaurant is out there. Try Cafe 28, Artopolis, or the Heartland Cafe.

Balancing personal financial security and paying for your child's future college tuition is a difficult juggling act. But through four savings mechanisms - cash savings, life insurance, 401(k)s or IRA...

Through both practical and emotional support, men can participate in and promote the breastfeeding of their children.

Teaching children to do things on their own requires both time and patience but is the best choice in the long run. Here are four areas they really can help.

Many companies supporting the cause may garner better business than the organizations the funds go toward. The Think Before You Pink effort strives to help consumers make sure you're supporting the br...

Organizations across the country strive to raise additional awareness about the risks, prevention, treatments, and survival of breast cancer in the first week of October, ranging from walking to talki...

Fifty-nine percent of Americans follow health and nutrition advice found on the Internet, despite the fact that only 41 percent believe it's true.

A good food and wine pairing can vastly enhance any meal. Even inexperienced wine connoisseurs can make excellent choices by paying attention to what they like. Here are a few suggestions.

When researching a major purchase such as new appliances, a television or computer, it is easy to get sucked into the press of the latest-and-greatest features, and the multitude of choices can be con...

New London, CT is enjoying increased foot traffic due to cruise ships docking. The massive Explorer of the Seas cruise line makes four stops in summer/fall 2007, including Sept. 29 and Oct. 13, and ha...

A study finds confirms efficacy of the American Cancer Society recommendation that women at high risk for breast cancer receive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) along with annual mammography. This rec...

Viewers of Top Chef watch both for a love of food and reality TV. Many of the cooking lessons can translate to the dinner table.

Work-at-home parents have a particular organization challenge: the need to child proof. Three simple methods make a more efficient and child-safe home office.

Wine-of-the-month clubs bring bottles of wine right to your doorstop. However, membership in wine clubs take much of the fun out of getting bottles of wine.

The block party is somewhat a relic of the past. Years ago neighbors dropped in and out of each other houses, children played in yards throughout the area, and everyone knew the names and, often, inte...

A new study reveals a tendency to associate Alzheimer's disease symptoms with normal aging processes varies by race. However, almost all people remain equally unaware of available treatments to reduce...

Wine enthusiasts join wine clubs for a variety of reasons. Whether you enjoy an occasional glass of wine or are a regular consumer, wine clubs can be an easy way to increase your wine collection.

Taking advantage of pre-existing resources is an easy way to increase a home's curb appeal. Splitting plants is one of the most cost-effective methods to do so.

Loneliness affects the immune system response at the basic level of white blood cells, according to a new study. The ramifications of this biological explanation indicates need for further thought abo...

A recent large-scale study reinforces previous evidence that taking the birth control pill can equate to lower cancer risk for women. However, the benefit varies by length of usage and type of cancer,...

National Association of Realtors data estimates an increasingly tight housing market, yet homes in southeastern Connecticut continue to experience strong sales numbers.

During the month of September, which is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, advocates and medical practitioners are striving to educate women about the importance recognizing ovarian cancer symptoms and o...

Getting dinner on the table is one of the most challenging parts of every busy family's day. A big part of this is finding different meal plans instead of serving the same thing week after week. Here ...

Parents can influence their children's musical tastes at an early age, and they don't have to just listen to typical children's music. Introducing a range of music becomes enjoyable for both parents a...

Alzheimer's disease affects more than 5 million Americans and 24 million individuals world-wide. On Sept. 21, World Alzheimer's Day raises awareness of aspects of the disease.

The third annual Clean Hands Report Card by the Soap and Detergent Association found that most students - and their parents and teachers - do not have good hand washing practices.

As the summer comes to a close, the travel industry gears up to promote "shoulder season" travel. For individuals with flexible schedules, vacation destinations can be a bargain.

Many corporations, including Yoplait, Fat Bastard Wine, and KitchenAid, donate a percentage of sales to simultaneously benefit breast cancer research and generate good press for their companies.

Newly released study findings reveal that cancer patients prioritize information over emotional support during initial attendance at support groups. This information provides clues for how to increase...

Breastfeeding is a public health issue, and as such, is affected by political pressure as reported in an Aug. 31 Washington Post article. The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative is one official mechanis...

Knowing where to look beyond individual foundation web sites makes grant writer's job easier and more effective. Here is a list of resources.

By taking into account children's taste buds and preferences, and including them in meal choice and preparation, parents can make delicious meals outside of the typical family fare.

Parents should include a visit to the dentist as part of their child's routine health examinations at the start of the school year.

Want to make more money? Learn to say "I'm sorry," recent poll finds.

United Airlines announces Rewards flights available for 15,000 miles instead of 25,000 miles for short trips. But what is good for the airline, might not be so great for the traveler.

Understanding the difference between basic stove top cooking techniques and how to do each is a critical first step to becoming a better cook.

Newport, RI is a perfect place to spend a weekend of breath taking views and water enjoyment. Here are a few reasons why.

Self promotion is an important part of professional life, but is difficult for many people. Try these suggestions for successfully marketing yourself.

Everything you do becomes a permanent digital footprint. So think about what you put out there, on Associated Content or anywhere else.

The ubiquity of email means a lot can and will be understood or poorly written. Now email etiquette manuals and websites offer tips to reduce people's chances of making a stupid email mistake.

When a couple who loves to eat has children, the opportunity to open the world of eating possibilities arises. But it's not all berries and cream, and takes a little thought. Here's how.

Officials urge consumers to prepare for fuel shortages by refilling early after hurricane warnings, and that taking precautionary steps aids evacuation preparation.

No one likes moving, but many hidden benefits come out of being forced to look at all of your stuff.

Every kitchen should have a few items to make dinner preparation go faster. These items are time and energy savers.

Parents of children newly in daycare may not know what to do for common issues. Here are some suggestions for how to handle them.

Though no advice in the magazine Real Simple Family is ground breaking, many suggestions do offer new insights into on-going areas of family life. A fast, pleasurable read.

National Geographic Adventure Magazine names Mystic, Connecticut, one of the best waterfront towns in the country. As a tourism destination, Mystic offers a range of sea-themed activities and attracti...

For those who like a variety of foods, and out-of-the-ordinary dining, Julian's in Providence, RI is fabulous. The food is as good as the experience.

As flight delays go up, so do customer complaints. With a few careful strategies, disgruntled passengers are more likely to get assistance.

The popularity of Jane Austen's writing lies in its universal theme of seeking love. As such, her novels translate well to the big screen.

Grandparents Day is Sept. 9 and recognizing grandparents honors their contributions to children's lives. Here are some simple and meaningful suggestions for how.

Open air summer festivals along the waterfront in New London, CT celebrate the ocean and vibrancy of the city.

New CDC study finds that more new mothers are breastfeeding their infants, but a significant number still do not nurse for the recommended time period.

The summer months produce a plethora of produce in personal gardens and farm co-ops. Informal produce exchanges ensure the large amounts don't go to waste and are easy to do. Here's how.

No one understands like another mom, so friendships between mothers are rewarding but may be difficult to initiate. Here are suggestions about some common early friendship anxieties.

New England's reliance on natural gas for electricity will continue for the predictable future, even with investments in alternative sources, according to a report released by the region's power grid....

The skill level of a grant writer affects both his or her salary and organization's grant proposal success rate. As such, a grant professional increases organizations' fund-raising capabilities.

The Leapfrog Learning Friends Phonics Bus is an ideal gift for curious toddlers as it combines interactive play, ABC learning, and songs in one small toy.

Peaches are one of the simple pleasures of summer eating. Try adding them to cooked portions of meals for extra enjoyment. Here are some suggestions.

World Breastfeeding Week strives to educate women, government and health officials, and the greater community about the health benefits of breastfeeding. This year's theme advocates breastfeeding with...

Sciatic nerve pain is one of the discomforts many pregnant women suffer. Here are suggestions for how to alleviate pain.

Mothers are likely to feel emotional when they stop breastfeeding, particularly if it is their choice. Here are some coping techniques.

The rash of recent news coverage of issues surrounding children in public spaces and during air travel initiates strong emotions on all sides.

Fans can incorporate Harry Potter into the rules of typical family games. Here are a few suggested games.

The prevalence of spoilers sometimes makes it hard not to find out what happens before you want to. Harry Potter is just the latest example of this phenomenon.

The recently released government study indicates that eating extra servings of fruits and vegetables does not reduce breast cancer reoccurrence rates. However, the two largest studies in this area sug...

The Book Barn in Niantic, CT hosts book release party for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This celebration is just one of many treats The Book Barn offers.

Vaporizers are inexpensive and effective treatments for a range of winter-month health issues.

Soaring temperatures sent record numbers of people to Rhode Island beaches on Sunday, unfortunately by mid-afternoon state officials had closed the parking lots. Will it happen again?

It is tempting to clean your children's earwax, but you might do more harm than good.

New research suggests that a mediator for stress-related weight gain is possible in the near future.

Time is money and yard sales don't make enough to justify the effort. Skip the sale and take the tax write off for donations instead.

The Pew Research Center's recent survey about marriage and children says fewer Americans rank children as key to a happy marriage. But there's more to the story.

Rising energy costs continue to impact the wallets of Americans. Here is a look at how national trends and direct impacts in Connecticut affect consumers.

A recent study finds no real gender gap in talkativeness, and opens doors to future research.

New York City's trans fat ban off to a good start, but the the requirement that restaurants post calorie counts is met with initial large-scale noncompliance.

A little goes along way in daily consumption of dark chocolate, but public not likely to hear that part of the finding.

Wine sector reform aims to bolster and revitalize the flagging European wine industry, but wine producers are not embracing the future changes.

Paying attention to a few details will help you ace the interview.

Explicit European Commission video clip stirs controversy about its appropriateness for promoting European films.

A newly released five year study finds that inability to identify common smells may be one of the first signs of Alzheimer's Disease among older adults.

This guilty pleasure reading is easily dismissed, but can add a new dimension for book groups.

J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows arrives on July 21. Until then, fans can get ready with a variety of Harry Potter themed activities.

The variety of fresh fruits and vegetables available during the summer opens a range of grilling options. Here are a few suggestions for how to make the most of them.

Mothers enjoy reading and talking about books. Doing a few things for their specific situations ensures a more successful book group.

During busy travel seasons, flight delays are a regular occurrence. Here is a range of tips for handling an airline delay when traveling with children.

The "Eat 5-a-Day" campaign for produce is being replaced by "More Matters" in recognition that individual consumption rates of fruits and vegetables vary by age, gender, and physical activity.

What women eat while pregnant and nursing is as important as how much they eat. Here is some basic information about why each nutrient is important.

Eating at fish shacks is a summertime tradition in New England. Here are a few favorites guaranteed to wet the appetite.

There are lots of possibilities to pass the time with children on rainy days. Here are a few suggestions.

Basic steps make the cooking process go smoother.

Knowing what you have and what you need make impromptu dinners a breeze.

Stain removers are a must-have in every household with carpeting. Here is a review of two products.

Table wines combine complementary flavors and are rising in popularity.

This brew pub has fine beer, great music, and an atmostphere appropriate for an afternoon with the family or a night on the town.