Admin's Assistant</h1> <article> <h1>Admin's Assistant</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:14:00 GMT</p> How to remember names Forget a phone number? Check your cell phone. Forget important information? Get the answer online. Forget how to get somewhere? Ask your GPS! There are a lot of ways for people to remember important information with the help of technology. But what about something that technology can't help you remember—names? Here are a few things you can do to help you remember names. When you meet a person and hear their name, the first step you can take to remember it is to repeat...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/admin-s-assistant-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Climbing the Ladder</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:12:00 GMT</p> Things you didn’t know you could learn on YouTube Pen Pal doesn't believe its readers would know anything about this, but there seems to be a segment of the workforce that bides their downtime by watching videos on YouTube. It got us thinking, if people must watch videos on YouTube while at work, why not make them productive videos? Here are a few clips that may help enhance your workplace performance. How to use PowerPoint/Adobe Acrobat/Windows 7 and more! YouTube is full of quick tutorials...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/climbing-the-ladder-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Renew You!</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:10:00 GMT</p> How not to be a doormat Many people suffer from doormat syndrome and never even realize it. Being a doormat is not intentional; things just seem to go in that direction for certain individuals. Because these individuals are often so giving, they are constantly taken advantage of. Does this sound familiar to you? If so, then you need to transform your overall situation for the better. First, honestly appraise yourself and make a list of the people and types of situations that threaten, intimidate...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/renew-you-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>News You can Use</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:06:00 GMT</p> Foods you thought were healthy…that aren’t So you’ve decided to start eating a healthier diet? Good for you! Loading up on more nutritious foods and cutting back on the junk is good, not only for your waistline, but also your health and well-being. But before you trade in that fast food burger for that fast food salad, read this. Those calorie-packed foods can be hiding in the most surprising places! Restaurant Salads Cheese, heavy dressings, crunchy noodles, and bacon pack on...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/news-you-can-use-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Family Matters</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:04:00 GMT</p> Eco-friendly products for the home Have you “gone green” at home yet? Finding eco-friendly products for your home is easy, and sometimes all it takes is a trip to a local store or a search online. Many big name stores are stocking their shelves with products that will not only make your home a healthier place to live but are also friendlier to the earth. Target, for example, has an entire green section on their Web site. From reusable tote bags to Burt’s Bees natural beauty products...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/family-matters-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>It's FREE!</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:02:00 GMT</p> Make free Internet phone calls using Skype What could be better than staying in touch with your family and friends, or business colleagues, for FREE? With Skype, it’s possible! Skype, founded in 2003, is a software-based application that allows users to make voice or video calls over the Internet to other Skype members for free. You’re able to talk to anyone worldwide at any time of the day for as long as you would like without a cost to either party. Since the service is primarily computer...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/it-s-free-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Editor's Note</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:00:00 GMT</p> Across the United States, company morale is down. According to the article, “Americans’ Job Satisfaction Falls to Record Low,” only 45% of workers are satisfied with their work. This is the lowest number recorded in 22 years! The article goes on to theorize that workers are unhappy not just because we are living through the worst recession since the 1930s, but because fewer workers consider their jobs interesting, incomes have not kept up with inflation, and the soaring cost of...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/03/01/editor-s-note-march-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Admin's Assistant</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:14:00 GMT</p> Tips for reducing your paper usage at the office The world uses about 1 million tons of paper every day and its use is on the rise. Much of this paper is wasteful, unnecessary, and puts huge pressures on the environment. Expanding production and wood harvesting threatens some of the remaining natural forests and the people and wildlife that depend on them. Many businesses and institutions are realizing that they can reduce disposal and paper costs, increase profits and preserve our natural resources...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/admin-s-assistant-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Climbing the Ladder</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:12:00 GMT</p> How to become a start administrative professional As the administrative professional of the office, you’re the go-to person that everyone relies on for some form of support. Although this role can be overwhelming, with the right attitude and skills, you can make yourself stand out. Stay Organized In order to be successful, you need to have an organization system to help yourself work effectively and in an efficient manner. Since your day might start with three tasks and end with five, you will...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/climbing-the-ladder-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Renew You!</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:10:00 GMT</p> Ways to improve your memory Thanks to the Internet and 24-hour news cycles, our brains are constantly bombarded with new information. With so much going on in our heads, it’s sometimes hard to remember the important stuff. Here are a few tips to improve your memory recall. Set reminders. These are kind of a cheat, but they do help in memory recall. Perhaps the most famous reminder is a string wrapped around one’s finger, but in the age of Outlook and iPhones, alert reminders that tell...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/renew-you-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>News You Can Use</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:08:00 GMT</p> It’s American Heart Month. What can you do to protect your heart? Cardiovascular disease is our nation's number one killer. Since 1963, the U.S. Congress has required the president to proclaim every February as “American Heart Month” in order to help urge everyone to join the battle against this disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about every 25 seconds, an American will suffer a heart attack. While some heart attacks are sudden and intense...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/newsyou-can-use-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Family Matters</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:04:00 GMT</p> How to save money on groceries When many families sit down to go through their budget and think about where they can cut costs, few rarely think about their monthly food bill. Saving money when doing your grocery shopping is easier than you may think. By preparing at home, following a few simple steps while at the store, and with a little planning ahead you can reduce your food budget without having to make any major changes. The best place to start when trying to save money on groceries is right...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/family-matters-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>It's FREE!</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:02:00 GMT</p> Where to find FREE photos for marketing materials Your coupon is tempting, your copy is persuasive, and your offer is being sent to all the right people, so why are you still being ignored? Everything these days happens fast. People want tomorrow's facts now and don't have time to wade through the details. Sure, bold headlines grab people's attention, but add a bold image and your customer will be hooked just a little longer. That's great right? No, not if you don't have a budget...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/it-s-free-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Editor's Note</h1> <p>tinadh — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT</p> Happy Valentine’s Day! I don’t think any other holiday stirs up more emotion than Valentine’s Day. Some of us love it, some of us hate it. Some of us think it’s only a Hallmark® holiday, while some of us go out of our way to show our significant others how much we care about them. Since I’ve been married for a while, I feel it’s more important to show love to your husband or wife every day, rather than some grand gesture on one specific day. But don’t...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/02/01/editor-s-note-feb-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Healthy Living</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 18:01:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="font-size:medium;">New trends in exercise</span></span></b></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><br />Exercise trends develop and change very often, and keeping up can be a challenge. If you want to stay fit, here are some new things you can try out! </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Budget-friendly (or more bang for the buck) workouts with 2-on-1 or even 3-on-1 training sessions are a reflection of the current recession. Trainers are now working with couples or maybe a group of friends in the same session in lieu of training just one person. They may even opt to go for half-hour sessions instead of the full hour.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Dance-based classes are fast becoming very popular! Zumba—a fitness program inspired by Latin dance—combines South American rhythms with cardiovascular exercise. Ballroom, Bollywood, Afro-Cuban and other exotic dance styles are growing in popularity, too.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Mind-body fitness solutions combine what might seem like opposing exercises—like mind-body movements, plus aerobics. Among these new workouts are Cy-Yo, a 1-hour workout combining 10 minutes of yoga, 40 minutes of intense peddling on a stationary bike, then 10 more minutes of yoga to cool down and refocus your mind. YogaFit workouts merge traditional yoga with a variety of other things, including strength training, core muscle building and firming your glutes. </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">While not totally new, kettlebells are traditional Russian weights that have become very popular within the last year or so. Resembling a cannonball with a handle, kettlebells are great for increasing strength, endurance, agility and balance. They’re particularly effective for strengthening the core, since it requires those muscles to contract as a group.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Getting back to the basics—trainers are again focusing on basic movements and techniques to help their clients. Exercises like push-ups, chair dips, abdominal floor work, lunges or squats can manifest excellent results when done properly. They also can be a great way for someone to stick with an exercise program when they don’t always have access to a gym.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Boot camp-style workouts are very intense and provide a total-body workout that’s both varied and challenging. Participants can burn anywhere from 600-1,000 calories per session while strengthening large muscle groups with pushups, squats and lunges. The downside is that you get yelled at—drill sergeant style.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Exercise trends come and go, but in the end you must choose which fitness routine is best suitable for you and your goals. If you haven’t been exercising for awhile, just be sure to ask your physician before getting started, especially if you have any risk factors, like an injury or recent surgery.</span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Admin's Assistant</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:14:00 GMT</p> How to choose the right calendar to keep you organized this year Choosing the right calendar is an important decision. The right calendar can help you stay organized and focused all year long. First, think about what kind of personality you have. Whether you’re tech savvy, creative or super organized, there's a perfect calendar out there for you! So, what type of calendar do you need? Digital Digital calendar people are always at the computer or carry their PDA or smart phone with them...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/admin-s-assistant-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Climbing the Ladder</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:12:00 GMT</p> Think you might get laid off? Here’s what to do! Companies are always looking for ways to cut costs. That, in conjunction with a tough economy, forces some companies to cut back, downsize and eliminate unneeded positions. Although no one wants to fall victim during difficult times, the reality is that some companies are struggling and people are getting laid off. Rather than crossing your fingers and hoping for the best, come up with a game plan. Think about ways to make yourself less vulnerable...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/climbing-the-ladder-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Renew You!</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:10:00 GMT</p> Shoo the flu bug away this winter with these stay-healthy tips! This cold and flu season has been notable because of the recurrence of the H1N1 virus that first surfaced in early 2009. Fears of a flu pandemic on the level of The Spanish Flu in 1918 have lessened (a few thousand have lost their lives due to H1N1 compared to millions in 1918), but we’re only halfway through the season, so we’re not out of the woods yet. While H1N1 hasn’t infected as many people as some feared, it...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/renew-you-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>News You Can Use</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:08:00 GMT</p> In a cash crunch? How to earn some extra money. Almost everybody needs a quick source of cash from time to time. Whether you just need to pay monthly bills or cover some unforeseen expense, it’s always good to have an extra source or two to fall back on. The following ideas are some general examples of how to do just that. Get a part-time job A part-time job can be anything from stocking shelves to house sitting on the weekend. There are literally hundreds of ways to make quick money by doing...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/news-you-can-use-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Family Matters</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:05:00 GMT</p> How to encourage family fitness Over the past 30 years the amount of overweight children aged 6 to 11 in the United States has more than doubled, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle, overweight children are more likely to become obese adults. Being obese increases the risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, some cancers and so many other diseases. Parents can lower these risks by taking an active role in their...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/family-matters-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Eco Friendly</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:05:00 GMT</p> <p> </p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="font-size:medium;">Plastic notation and BPA</span></span></b></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Plastic material is found in so many different products, many consumers may not even realize the things they use might have plastic in them. N<span style="color:black;">ot all plastics are the same; they are classified in seven different categories and come in many different forms. You can determine the category of a plastic you’re using by looking at the symbol usually found on the bottom of the product.</span> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">With growing concern about BPA content in plastic, it’s important to know what type of plastic you’re using. Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical that is used in the production of polycarbonate plastic resins, epoxy resins, and other products. BPA can leach into food through containers and is believed to cause health problems. Scientists have found that the chemical causes health problems in animal studies and are concerned about the risk it poses to humans. </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has addressed this concern and says that current BPA exposure levels are not an immediate health risk. While the risk may not be immediate, the FDA does acknowledge that further research is necessary to define the exact health threats associated with BPA. </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Plastics classified as number 7 or 3 can leach BPA into food and beverages. Numbers 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 do not use BPA during package forming.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Arial;">Number 1 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in water bottles, mouthwash bottles, peanut butter containers, and salad dressing containers</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Can be recycled through most curbside programs</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Lightweight and inexpensive to recycle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>Polar fleece, athletic shoes and occasionally new containers are just some of the uses for recycled number 1 plastics</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 2 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in milk jugs, juice bottles, household cleaner bottles, shampoo bottles, some shopping bags, and cereal box liners</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Can be recycled through most curbside programs</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Once recycled, number 2 plastics can turn into the same containers they once were</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 3 plastic</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in window cleaner bottles, wire jacketing, medical equipment, siding and windows</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Rarely recycled, but are occasionally accepted by plastic lumber makers. Once recycled, they can become mud flaps, roadway gutters, cables,<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span>and speed bumps </span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Commonly referred to as PVC; releases toxins in the air when burned</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 4 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in bread bags, frozen food bags, dry cleaning bags, furniture and carpet</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Not often recycled, but can be used to make trash can liners and cans, compost bins and shipping envelopes</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 5 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in syrup bottles, yogurt containers, straws and medicine bottles</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Can be recycled in most curbside programs and can be used to make signal lights, brooms, brushes, ice scrapers, rakes and bike racks</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Have a high melting point, so they are often used for hot liquids</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 6 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Found in disposable plates and cups, meat trays, egg cartons and carry-out containers</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Can be recycled and used for the same products they once were</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Usually made into rigid or foamed products</span></li> </ul> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Number 7 plastics</span></b></p> <ul style="margin-top:0in;"> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Any other type of plastic or a combination of the other 6 plastics falls into this category<span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span></span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sunglasses, iPod and computer cases and nylon are products with number 7 plastics</span></li> <li style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo3;tab-stops:list .5in;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Not typically recycled</span></li> </ul><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>It's FREE!</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:03:00 GMT</p> Where can I get a FREE credit report? According to the Federal Trade Commission , www.annualcreditreport.com is the only authorized source for free annual credit reports under federal law. Through the Fair Credit Reporting Act you are guaranteed a free credit report from three nationwide agencies every twelve months. These three agencies are Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Don’t be fooled by catchy jingles – many consumers have complained to the FTC about companies who promise free...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/it-s-free-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Trend Setting</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:02:00 GMT</p> <p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></b></p> <p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="font-size:medium;">Times are tough—how are people earning money?</span></span></b><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Unemployment is on the decline and the economy is taking a turn for the better but even with these glimmers of good news everyone's budget is still tight. Luckily, if you're unemployed or need a little help to make ends meet, there are some interesting things you can do to earn a little extra money this year.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Search online</span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Search the internet and you'll find a lot of great ways to earn money online. But remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are thousands of "earn money fast online" scams out there.</span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Start a blog</span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sure there are a TON of blogs out there but if you have a unique point of view or idea people will read your blog! Plus, with blog publishing Web sites like Blogger and Wordpress, starting a blog is easy! They even have built-in features that help you design your blog so you don’t need to be a master of web design.</span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sell your old stuff</span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">In the summer, or if you live in a fairly warm climate all year, a garage sale is a great way to earn a few bucks. Plus, thanks to Web sites like Craigslist and eBay people can buy, sell, trade and barter just about anything all year round. You never have to worry about the weather!</span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sell your crafts</span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Are you really great at creating hand-made, one-of-a-kind works of art like jewelry, clothing or crafts? Then check-out Etsy.com! As eBay is great for selling just about everything, Etsy focuses on selling all things handmade.</span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Freelance from home</span></b></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;">There are still a lot of businesses that have let employees go but still need the help. Since they can't afford a full-time employee, a lot of places are hiring temporary freelancers. Depending on the type of work or how big the project is, you may even be able to work several freelance jobs without ever stepping foot into an office building.</span></p> <p style="padding-left:30px;margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><em><strong><span style="color:#006bad;">What are you doing to earn extra money during these difficult times?</span></strong></em></span></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Editor's Note</h1> <p>tinadh — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:01:00 GMT</p> Happy New Year, Pen Pal readers! To kick off this new year at the Pen Pal, we are excited to introduce a new section. This new section, called It’s FREE!, is dedicated to all things free! We feel this will be one of our most beneficial sections to you. We know that, due to the state of the economy, many of us are struggling and looking for ways to save a little money. So to help us all out, each month this section will feature something that’s free…a free item, a free class, free...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/penpal/archive/2010/01/01/editor-s-note-jan-10.aspx">read more</a>) </article> <article> <h1>Happy holidays to all of you from all of us at Quill.com!</h1> <p>tinadh — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:14:00 GMT</p> To me, this time of year means many things. Family and friends gather together for special celebrations. Time-honored traditions are upheld, and brand new ones are started. And while it’s sometimes easy to become caught up in the hustle and bustle of finding just the right gift for someone special, I think it’s important to remember that there are people in this world who are a lot less fortunate than we are…people who need our help. As one of America’s leading office products...(<a href="http://blog.quill.com/blogs/larry/archive/2009/12/01/happy-holidays-to-all-of-you-from-all-of-us-at-quill-com.aspx">read more</a>) </article> </main></body></html>