Monday, December 31, 2012

FOXNews.com: Ford's 100 mpg Fusion

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Ford's 100 mpg Fusion
Dec 31st 2012, 19:27

Remember when you needed to ride a scooter to get 100 mpg?

The Ford Fusion Energy plug-in hybrid has earned an EPA fuel economy rating equivalent to 100 mpg combined, according to Ford.

The four-door sedan shares a powertrain with the company's C-Max Energi crossover, which went on sale earlier this year also with a 100 mpg-e rating. The mpg-e measurement was developed to compare the efficiency of vehicles that use different types of energy.

In the case of the Fusion Energi, the vehicle has a four-cylinder internal combustion engine and an electric drive system that draws power from a battery pack that can be recharged from an electrical outlet. Ford says the Fusion Energy can travel up to 20 miles on battery power alone at speeds reaching 62 mph before switching into a more conventional hybrid drive mode for longer trips.

The 100 mpg-e rating compares favorably to its closest competitors, the Chevrolet Volt and Toyota Prius Plug-in, which have ratings of 98 mpg-e and 95 mpg-e, respectively. But as Ford was recently reminded after several independent tests found its 47 mpg Fusion Hybrid falling short of its EPA rating in real world conditions, your mileage may vary.

The Fusion Energi is expected to hit dealers soon with a price of $39,495 and will be eligible for a $3,750 federal green energy tax credit, along with various state level incentives.

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FOXNews.com: 5 Real Estate resolutions for 2013

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5 Real Estate resolutions for 2013
Dec 31st 2012, 16:00

At the end of every December, people make all kinds of resolutions for the coming year. Typically, these are things they want to improve about themselves, ways to make their day-to-day personal or work life better or ideas to put them on track for a change. Many times these surface as a result of mistakes made in the past 12 months.

When it comes to real estate, resolutions don't necessarily apply as it's unlikely that you do a real estate transaction each year.  Furthermore, you can't actually resolve to buy your neighbor's house or sell your $350,000 home for $1 million. Well, you could, but you'd probably be setting yourself up for disappointment right from the start.

Some things are simply out of a would-be buyer or seller's control. But, as a would-be buyer or seller, you can learn from and make resolutions based on those who have gone before you. There exists a former buyer who, if he could, would resolve to have done more legwork before buying. Conversely there's a current seller who resolves to take the next under-asking-price offer from a buyer more seriously.

Whether you plan to buy or sell, there are some real estate resolutions that buyers and sellers can -- and should -- make. Here are five to get you started.

Buyers: Resolve to get your financial house in order

Planning a home purchase takes time and effort, so you should consider meeting with a mortgage professional early in the year. Know your credit score and understand what your financial situation looks like from a lender's perspective. If you have credit issues, identify what they are and the necessary steps to correct them. Sometimes, it can take six months to see your FICO score move up the much-needed 20 points to get you a better mortgage rate. A good real estate agent can recommend an experienced, local mortgage processional. Local is always important, because many real estate deals are made on relationships, and being able to meet face-to-face with your mortgage professional can be a big plus.

Sellers: Resolve to think of your home as a product

When it comes time to sell, your home becomes another product on the market. Buyers will compare it and its price to competing properties. You must put your best foot forward, because the properties that are priced right and show well sell the quickest. Pricing will get worked out once you're ready to list, but showing well can start way in advance. A home that shows well is free of clutter, clean and as up-to-date as possible.

Start clearing out old stuff now. If there are things deep in your closets that you don't think you'll use between January and the time you move, consider a storage locker or making space in the garage. Does your real estate agent suggest that the basement needs a paint job? Get some painting bids now. Have you always hated how the bathroom vanity takes up so much space? Consider changing it now so buyers will perceive your bathroom as bigger. This will also help you spread out the costs of home repairs and changes over several months.

Buyers: Resolve to start feeling out the market early

You may think you only need to go to open houses once you're ready to buy. But in reality, a buyer needs a couple of months learning the marketing, understanding home values, the prices per neighborhood and the market in general. Going to open houses in the neighborhoods where you want to buy will allow you to start feeling out the market. It may also be the best way to meet your future real estate agent. Many agent/buyer relationships are forged at open houses.

Once you engage an agent, you may make several offers before you get into your dream home. Having your agent along for the ride will allow you to compare and contrast homes you've visited to the home you eventually buy. The homes you see and your experience feeling out the market will serve as the building blocks toward becoming an informed buyer and making your best offer.

Sellers: Resolve to understand your timing and exit strategy

One of the biggest stresses on a seller is trying to plan a purchase and a sale at the same time. Can you afford to close on the new home before selling? If so, for how long? Do you need to sell the property first? If so, will the potential sale price support a home purchase in the neighborhood you want to be in? If not, what other areas should you be looking in? Selling and buying at the same time brings up all kinds of financial, emotional and physical stress.

Uprooting yourself from your home is not easy. What if you have to go into short-term housing? How will you get that set up and how long would you need to commit for? If you can afford to purchase and then sell, do they need to happen quickly? Are there things you can be doing in your current home so that once your new home closes, you'll be ready to list? It's a lot to think about and plan for, and it helps to have a strategy in place well before you have to take action.

Buyers and sellers: Resolve to engage a real estate agent now

Planning a home purchase or sale takes time. Engaging a real estate agent early in the process will allow you to have an expert on hand as you start to put the pieces together. A good real estate agent doesn't just show and sell homes: They can be your strategic adviser, even well in advance of any actual transaction.

On the seller side, if you pulled a permit to install some new windows or replace some dry rot in 2005, likely the contractor issued a permit. But did he close it out? A good agent will figure that out and clean it up before it becomes a transaction issue. You should use your agent to literally get your house and listing in order.

For buyers, having an agent with you from the start is like having an experienced, second set of eyes and ears. Having so many transactions under the belt and years of market knowledge in their head, a real estate agent's opinions, thoughts and ideas can save you a lot of time and money. What's more, they can keep you on the right path toward identifying the best home, and they'll see you through the process all the way to the closing.

Related:

Brendon DeSimone is a Realtor, a regular HGTV contributor and one of the nation's leading real estate experts. He has collaborated on multiple real estate books and his expert advice is regularly sought out by print, online and television media outlets like FOX News, CNBC and Forbes. An avid investor, Brendon owns real estate around the US and abroad and is licensed to sell in both California and New York. You can find Brendon online or follow him on Twitter.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or position of Zillow.

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FOXNews.com: Top 5 FoxNews.com Autos stories of 2012

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Top 5 FoxNews.com Autos stories of 2012
Dec 31st 2012, 15:00

We can sit here all day and tell you what the most important automotive stories of 2012 were, but we'd rather let you tell us which ones you liked the most. So here is a list of the five most popular features that ran on FoxNews.com Autos over the past year. From the looks of them, whether its speed, money or mass, size definitely still matters.

#5 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra revealed

There are a lot of important new vehicles set to hit the streets next year, including the seventh generation Chevy Corvette, but none of them can compare to GM's pickup truck twins. The company's best sellers are getting a full overhaul next year, and you couldn't wait to get a glimpse of what's to come.

#4 Student hybrid car project could bring millions to Tennessee university

Who says the American dream is dead? A team of students reinvented the wheel by designing a compact electric motor that can be made to fit inside the rims of just about any car, turning it into a fuel-efficient hybrid and the patents could reap untold fortunes for their alma matter.

#3 Nissan to build insane $590,000 Juke-R cute ute

Custom car shows are all the rage on TV, but it's especially fun when an automaker gets into the act. Nissan got a little crazy last year when it stuffed the 485 hp twin-turbocharged V6 and all-wheel-drive system from its GT-R supercar into a Juke crossover, then went totally off the cliff by offering it for sale – at the low, low price of $590,000.

#2 MAN unveils super-streamlined semi truck

If concept cars are cool, concept semi trucks are even better. A convoy of futuristic aerodynamic tractor trailers hit the scene this year, but none harder than the MAN Concept S and Aero Liner. Its sci-fi design is ready to drill a hole through the air and take over the local truck stop like a UFO landing in the parking lot.

#1 Car hits 220 mph on new Texas highway

It's every car enthusiasts dream: a 1200 hp car and a freshly-paved closed road to drive it on. Hennessey Performance lent the Texas DOT a helping hand and a really fast car to test out the automated toll system on the new 85 mph SH-130 highway. The result? A 220 mph run caught on camera. Yes, everything is still bigger in Texas.

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FOXNews.com: How sparkling wine is made

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How sparkling wine is made
Dec 31st 2012, 10:00

How do those bubbles get in the bottle? For some lower-end wines, it's the same way sodas are carbonated, through the introduction of carbon dioxide gas. But higher-end wines are crafted utilizing a more expensive and complex technique named after the finest sparkling wines, "méthode champenoise."

Whether it's sparkling Shiraz from Australia, sparkling Riesling from Austria, Cava from Spain or Champagne from France, all wines begin in the vineyard. Soil, climate, weather and cultural practices affect the quality and character of the fruit. Once the grapes are harvested, they are placed in a destemmer/crusher, which separates the stems from the fruit and breaks up the berries. The stems are then discarded leaving a "must," a combination of juice, seeds, pulp and skins. At this point, the process for red and white wine production differs.

The juice from both red and white wine grapes is without color. Red wines are fermented together with the grape skins and seeds. The skins float to the top forming a cap during fermentation and must be moistened regularly with juice to extract color and flavors. Red wines are usually fermented for a period of five to ten days.

For whites, the skins and seeds are usually removed from the must after only a few hours. The skins are pressed to extract all the remaining juice. The juice is filtered, then placed in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels where the wine will ferment following the addition of yeast. White wine fermentation lasts from three days to three weeks. When fermentation has run its course, the vintner will stop the process and filter the wine to remove solids and yeast remnants.

Sparkling wines are made from red or white still wines, such as Chenin Blanc, French Colombard, Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, which serve as a base for the next stage of this unique winemaking process. For Champagnes, which must meet many strict regulations as opposed to other sparkling wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes are used almost exclusively. (You may see Champagne grapes at the supermarket, but they are not used to make Champagne!) A "triage" — a blend of the base wine, yeast nutrient and a source of sugar — is added to the base wine and the mixture is fermented a second time in a sealed container which traps carbon dioxide producing the effervescence or bubbles. The second fermentation usually takes four to eight weeks.

The new sparkling wine is aged in the bottle interacting with the dead yeast cells called lees, which affects the flavor and texture of the final product. Non-vintage Champagnes must age a minimum of 15 months on their lees, while vintage Champagnes (those made from a single year's harvest) must age at least three years. Then the bottles are turned upside-down and turned frequently, causing the lees to fall into the neck of the bottle. The sediment is disgorged, and the bottles are topped off, corked and capped. After a short rest, they are ready to help you celebrate.

MORE ON GAYOT.com

The World's Best Champagnes

Top 10 True Champagnes Under $30

Top 10 American Sparkling Wines

Champagne Basics

All About Sparkling Wines

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FOXNews.com: Eat like a billionaire

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Eat like a billionaire
Dec 31st 2012, 10:00

Billionaires can be just like the rest of us — they like to eat, drink, and be merry, too. While the members of the ultra-high-net-worth world can be illusive more often than not, they too want to be part of a cutting-edge restaurant scene, both nationally and internationally. Restaurants around the world have hosted billionaires, from the Eternal City to Australia and back around again to The Big Apple when they decide it's time to see and be seen.

While the wealthy sector is often dining in the comfort of their own mansions, mega-yachts, or private jets, they can also occasionally be spotted eating alongside their lesser net-worth counterparts. While fine dining establishments like New York City's Per Se and Le Bernardin will simply never go out of fashion, dives and comfort food grub can also be compelling options, particularly for the likes of Warren Buffet.

From business meetings to birthday celebrations to over-the-top public tantrums, billionaires cause quite the stir when they frequent restaurants. In today's world of instantaneous news and social media, one well-placed tweet can let you know where those atop Forbes' billionaire list may be dining that evening, and perhaps what they are eating.

Piccolo's, aka Piccolo Pete's Restaurants, Omaha, Neb.

Every day, billionaires eat in low-key local spots that remind them of home. Warren Buffet's favorite restaurant is a family-owned and operated one in his hometown of Omaha, Neb. It features a prime rib that is quite popular. Donna Sheehan, Piccolo Pete's co-owner, has said that Buffet often orders the veal or chicken parmigiana — even the wealthiest of the wealthy like their greasy spoons and comfort food when the mood strikes. Perhaps we'll see Piccolo's on Diners, Drive-In's and Dives soon enough.

'21' Club, New York City

While the '21' Club is nothing short of a New York institution, one may wonder if it still draws the big names it once did. Wonder no more, as billionaire industrialist David Koch planned a fundraising luncheon featuring Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker at The Big Apple restaurant in October 2012. The party cost $1,000 per plate, while guests were also offered the chance to partake in a photo op with the Wisconsin governor for a cool $2,500. Ironically, the luncheon featuring Koch, who has been outspoken about his viewing on global warming, was canceled in the wake of Hurricane Sandy's destruction, but no doubt will be rescheduled at a later date.  

Sirio Ristorante, New York City

Sirio Ristorante has only been open for a few months, but the Italian restaurant created by Sirio Maccioni, is already attracting many a billionaire and celebrity alike. The restaurant, located in The Pierre hotel, celebrated its opening in October 2012, with Mayor Michael Bloomberg ready to try out the latest New York City hot spot. Bloomberg ranks at number 10 on Forbes' "The Richest People in America" list and is known for his love of fine dining. While maybe not billionaires themselves, celebrities Tony Bennett and Martha Stewart were spotted at the opening rubbing elbows with the mayor. The Tuscan menu inspired by Maccioni's youth includes dishes like penne with three-meat ragù and braised veal cutlets.

Tavern, Los Angeles

When he's not making the latest blockbuster or Oscar-nominated flick, Steven Spielberg likes snagging a bite out in Tinseltown whenever he gets the chance, and he was recently spotted at West Hollywood's Tavern. With local, earthy dishes such as roasted beets with chickpeas on the menu, Spielberg must be a fan of seasonal ingredients. He's also a regular at his mother Leah Adler's kosher restaurant, Milky Way. Known for comfort food like potato pancakes and blintzes, it's become a local favorite due to the owner's warm charm and hospitality.

ARIA Restaurant, Brisbane, Australia

While many billionaires go out to dinner for a high-end experience, others are wheeling and dealing their next big project over cocktails and caviar. Russian multi-billionaire Roman Abramovich, whose estimated net-worth is $12.1 billion, took a business meeting at ARIA Restaurant in Brisbane with Linc Energy chief Peter Bond. The restaurant, co-owned by Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan, is equally known for its stunning views as it is for its delicious array of freshly caught seafood, with barramundi being among one of its star dishes.

See more restaurants where billionaires eat here

More from The Daily Meal

Museum Restaurants Worth Your Palate

50 Best Cupcakes in America

America's Best Burritos

The Best Chinese Takeout in America

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Sunday, December 30, 2012

FOXNews.com: Entertaining at home: The 5 perfect conversation pieces

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Entertaining at home: The 5 perfect conversation pieces
Dec 30th 2012, 20:13

During the holidays merry-making doesn't always come so easy when you're entertaining people you don't know very well in your home. Like your spouse's co-workers. Or your new in-laws. Or the neighbors you only really see at Christmas when they come over with a bottle of wine as a sort of unspoken thank you for keeping an eye on their house while they're on vacation. You can make small talk about the usual suspects -- the weather, the price of gas -- but then what?

Awkward silences need not ensue. Margaret Shepherd, an etiquette expert and author of  "The Art of Civilized Conversation," says there are five objects you can display in the entertainment area of your home that are surefire ways to jump-start any conversation.

A musical instrument

"Pianos don't count: People see them as furniture, and furniture is not a lively conversation piece," Shepherd said. A harp, tuba, cello or other instrument, however, can spark a lively conversation about musical training, tastes and childhood performance experiences.

What if you haven't played that clarinet since high school band, decades ago? Mention that! And mention why having it around still evokes fond memories. You could say, for example, "I was lousy at math until I learned to read music. And then suddenly it all clicked."

But what if you DO still play that clarinet, and someone asks you to perform right then and there? "Don't accept the first invitation to perform, but thank the guest and promise to play later," Shepherd said. "And then wait to be asked twice! A host's performance stops the conversation and the party dead, while afterward no one can say anything but compliments."

A framed photo or a photo album

"The best photos to offer in frames or an album are those of people your guests know, groups that include your guests or you with a celebrity," Shepherd said. "Don't just show off a photo or album (your wonderful kids, your handsome mate, your famous friend, your delightful vacation) to get a conversation started."

Instead, she recommends planning ahead to make sure the photo(s) include your guests in some way -- such as your husband in a guest's own backyard at last year's neighborhood barbecue, your son wearing a jacket a guest gave him, a famous friend you both admire, or a vacation spot your guest has also been to or plans to visit. "That will launch the conversation AND keep it going," Shepherd said.

An exotic flower or plant

"If you have any spectacular object like this that is sure to excite curiosity and comment, be ready with a response that takes advantage of the moment," Shepherd said. "Don't just say 'thank you' and let it end there." She suggests such responses as "I got it from Jason's math teacher who grows them as a hobby" or "I've been reading up on it, and it is especially prevalent in the area where you grew up."

The plant doesn't even have to be that exotic; "controversial" plants work, too. Shepherd, for example, knows a Southern California hostess who is proud of her backyard garden. This hostess often puts a beautifully thriving cilantro plant on her coffee table.

"Cilantro is one of those herbs that people either absolutely adore or thoroughly loathe," Shepherd said. Guests either immediately start trading cilantro recipes and new uses, or they talk about why they love it ("It has that mild soapy flavor") or hate it ("It has that mild soapy flavor").

A best-selling book

It's probably not a good idea to display a book that has a political slant in these contentious times, but an extraordinarily good memoir or biography, a spectacular "coffee-table" book (that you've actually read!) or a novel that is currently being made into a film are all good choices here.

"Any book that is floating around in popular knowledge is a conversation starter," Shepherd said. "Even if someone hasn't read the book on your table, he can then say 'Oh, I have heard so much about that book. What's all the hype about?' That's your hook. Now, you or one of your guests can build a valuable conversation with that person."

In addition, she adds, the next time your guests hear that book talked about, they'll be able to chime in and quote your opinion.

A collection

Cookie jars, Depression glass, salt and pepper shakers, snow globes, autographs -- almost everyone collects something. "Display your own collection and you can talk about various aspects of it -- how you got into it, where you find items, what are your criteria, how happy it makes you, how you find information, how you display it, where your fellow collectors meet, and so on," Shepherd said. She warns against talking about prices.

After you've responded to your guests' questions you should turn the conversation to them and what it is that they collect.

"Everyone collects something!" Shepherd reiterated. "It's a great uniter."

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FOXNews.com: Essential baking tools

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Essential baking tools
Dec 30th 2012, 10:00

Being a beginner baker can be daunting, so that's why The Daily Meal has put together a list of tools and gadgets that aspiring pastry chefs just can't do without. Whether you dream of freshly baked snickerdoodles, a homemade apple pie with a perfect filling, or an indulgent dark chocolate cake, dreams won't become reality without a properly equipped kitchen. So what do you need?

We pored through our library of cookbooks and also polled members of our Culinary Content Network for some basic advice. The good news? Getting started doesn't require a huge investment in equipment, and many of these things are items you may already have in your kitchen. By no means is our list meant to be exhaustive in the sense that it will cover every baking eventuality, but this should be enough to get you started on some basic recipes.

Oven Thermometer

Oven temperatures can diverge wildly from the stated settings. If you're planning on doing any baking, braising, or roasting in your oven (or anything at all), spend a few bucks on an oven thermometer to find out what temperature your oven is really at when you set it to say, 350 degrees.

Kitchen Scale

While many baking recipes geared toward home cooks give measurements in terms of volume, for the greatest accuracy, you'll want to work in terms of weight, especially with dry ingredients. That's because ingredients like flour and sugar can have chunks if not sifted, or settle, and the weight of a cup of flour can vary dramatically because of this. Take the safe road and know exactly how much sugar you've measured out with a kitchen scale. Look for ones with a glass surface for easy cleanup, and for the greatest accuracy, go digital.

Whisk

For some people, a whisk is a whisk, but for people who plan on making meringue, they might want to look into balloon whisks.

Balloon whisks are big and, well, balloon-shaped, which means they're great for incorporating air into egg whites or anything else that needs to be fluffed up. Balloon equals air.

Mixing Bowls

Choose stainless steel bowls for ease of cleanup and maximum durability. Have on hand at least three different sizes — small, medium, and large.

Spatula

Choose heat-resistant silicone spatulas for the greatest versatility. That way, you won't be confined to just folding batter with them. You'll be able to safely use them to make omelettes and scrambled eggs too, without having them melt.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

When baking, chances are you'll want to stick to the directions, and you'll need to be able to measure out ingredients precisely as they're written. Choose stainless steel ones for superior durability. For ease of use, you may choose to invest in a glass wet measure cup as well as a set of dry measure cups. Why? Because wet measure cups are easier to use with liquids than dry measure cups, which are meant to be filled to the top rather than up to a line. Imagine picking up a dry measure cup full of liquid — sploosh!

Rolling Pin

If you plan on working with dough at all, a rolling pin is a must.

See all 13 essential baking tools here

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Reinventing Campbell's Soups

7 Secrets to Making Holiday Meals Healthy

Best Recipes Using Cookies

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Saturday, December 29, 2012

FOXNews.com: Staging your home while you live there

FOXNews.com
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Staging your home while you live there
Dec 29th 2012, 11:40

Staging a home to sell while living in it can feel exhausting; you want it to look nice for buyers that might pop by at any time, but you also don't want to feel like you live in a museum where you can't touch anything! There are a few things you can do to keep your home ready to show so it will sell fast while ensuring it's still livable. Think of home staging as an opportunity to declutter, get rid of old and unwanted belongings, and get a head start on packing. Be aware that prospective buyers will look everywhere, including in any built-in custom carpentry cupboards and shelves, pantries, and other areas you might think are off-limits.

When you know you're getting ready to move, start with a merciless winnowing of your possessions. Get rid of outdated, ugly furniture, garments you're not wearing, knick-knacks you don't really want to take with you, and other clutter. If you're afraid to take the plunge, have some friends come over and help. Don't store everything you plan to get rid of in the garage or a spare room: GET RID OF IT! Take it to a thrift store, dump, or other appropriate new home.

With more space cleared in your home, you can start thinking about how to stage it. Potential buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, so you want to keep the décor neutral, without a lot of personal touches. At the same time, you don't want it so sterile that you feel uncomfortable, or that they have trouble imagining anything at all in the space. The first step is to make sure your home feels light and open, because buyers put a premium on natural light.

The first step is to make sure your home feels light and open, because buyers put a premium on natural light.

- s.e. smith

If you haven't already painted in preparation, do so, and choose light, neutral colors that will be easy to paint over if necessary. To choose the right color, you could consult with an interior designer, or you could discuss it with your painting contractor. Many professional painters, like AAA Painters, a Phoenix painting contractor, offer color consultation services. Remove blinds and heavy curtains and consider investing in sheers and other lightweight window treatments, or leave windows uncovered if doing so won't compromise privacy.

Make sure you have a few neutral items of furniture in your home; this is a good time to put dramatic statement pieces away unless they make fantastic accents in a room. Float furnishings away from the wall to create more space and dynamism, rather than shoving them against the walls, which can actually make rooms feel more crowded.

When it comes to accent decor, consider using interesting art papers to line open bookshelves and cupboards. They add a quiet note of flavor to a room without being overwhelming. Choose a few neutral, but interesting, pieces of art to hang, and offset them at different heights to draw attention to all the display possibilities. Also add mirrors; they add light, make rooms feel larger, and keep the space more interesting.

If you want to display some sculptures, keepsakes, and other objects, be aware that odd numbers on display tend to look best, and they shouldn't be rigidly grouped. Rather than a row of uniformly sized candles, for example, consider a cluster of five pillars of different heights. Pull accent items together with a common thread: a green vase could go with an enameled brass egg that has green accents along with a green leather-bound book, for example.

Many homes have underutilized areas like stair nooks, junk rooms, and basements. Consider staging these to add value; since you're not using them anyway, it won't be an inconvenience to keep them looking dressed up, and by occupying them, you'll reduce the chance that they attract clutter. Add an armchair, a table, and a soft lamp to make a reading corner, or a yoga mat and some pillows to create an instant yoga studio. These little spots in your home can become hidden gems to entrance buyers, rather than awkward spaces.

The kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom tend to be most prone to clutter and messy surfaces, and those are the spots where buyers most want to see clean spaces. Start by storing items that you're using; closed storage in the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom is important. Use totes in the bathroom for personal items, and make sure everyone in the house knows to clean up after meals. Keep the counters clean with the exception of some accent pieces like vases filled with flowers or a bowl of fruit, and if you make a meal that smells strong, neutralize the odor when you're done.

Open the windows at least ten minutes a day for ventilation to keep the house smelling fresh, and make sure to keep fresh vases of flowers around along with living plants, because they can make your house much more inviting. If you have animals, clean up after them regularly.

When you feel like your home is close to ready, a real estate agent can walk through with you to provide suggestions, but you also might want to consider asking critical friends. Have them walk through and tell you what catches their eye, good or bad; they may spot issues like peeling paint that you don't notice anymore, for example, or could have suggestions for repositioning items to make rooms feel more open and friendly. Once you have your home where you want it, stay vigilant about keeping it that way so it's always ready for a showing.

s.e. smith writes for Networx.com.

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FOXNews.com: Party foods worth your attention

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Party foods worth your attention
Dec 29th 2012, 10:00

As we try to get over the "hump" of our week, we can't help but notice that our monthly calendar is jam-packed with holiday dinners and parties. And we bet you're in the same boat. If you're planning a bash of your own, we're here to deliver the goods — a little menu inspiration.

More often than not, when you have a busy schedule you tend to serve familiar, quick-to-make dishes — and we understand completely. However, after looking at these drool-worthy bites you're sure to find some motivation to try something new.

After scouring our own recipe archives, those of our trusty Culinary Content Network members, and a sprinkle of our favorite catering companies, we have compiled a collection of 25 foods fit for any party. From comfort food bites and bold flavors to modern twists and extravagant displays, these dishes are sure to make a big splash at any soirée.

While there are thousands of dishes populating our site and sites like Pinterest, we thought it best to stick to the small stuff, so we've focused on bite-sized items that are perfect for cocktail parties.

And of course no cocktail party would be complete without signature sips, so stay tuned for 25 Party Drinks. All of a sudden, we're very thirsty.

Warm Chips and Truffled Dip
"[This is] my easy, go-to party snack for years, or when watching a movie for that matter… it's always a hit." — Linnea Johansson, Perfect Parties

Boozy Donuts
"These are my hands down favorite holiday dessert this season. They're easy, delicious, and make your look like a super star in the kitchen when you bust out the crème brûlée torch!" — Linnea Johansson, Perfect Parties

"These are inspired by turning easy beer bread into something extra special using locally made Marinated Balsamic Onions from The Rustic Fork. These are full of flavor and have a deep rich color from slow cooking of the onions. The balsamic onions are combined in the filling with either Brie or Parmesan for a perfect savory appetizer or a great dinner roll. [They're the] perfect size for making ahead and freezing, and great for winter soups and stews. You don't have to do the pull-apart version, just place the pinwheels in the pan and — voilà — instant dinner rolls!"

— Ellen Hartle, Bake It with Booze.

Mini Banh Mi Sandwiches
"Also known as a Vietnamese hoagie, a banh mi is a delicious Vietnamese street food that is quickly gaining popularity around the world. And it's easy to see why: these beef or pork sandwiches are topped with a sweet and tangy mix of condiments to please the palate. Either way, these itty-bitty edibles are to be a crowd-pleaser."— Teri Lyn Fisher and Jenny Park, Tiny Food Party

Potato Samosas
"The classic Indian snack food is served with raita, a traditional cucumber-mint yogurt sauce, to cool the palate and offset the spicy notes of the samosa filling. Set out big bowls of samosas and fresh cucumber-mint raita and get to dipping!" — Teri Lyn Fisher and Jenny Park, Tiny Food Party

Red, Wine, and Blue Grilled Cheese
"These grilled cheese sandwiches are beautiful and delicious. They can be made in bite-sized portions with cocktail bread or simply sliced into smaller portions and served as an appetizer. The caramelized onion and red wine jam pairs perfectly with a great blue cheese.  The combination is incredible and makes a beautiful addition to an appetizer course." —Jennifer Burcke, 1840 Farm

Buffalo Bites
New York City's Canard Inc. takes a modern approach to the classic comfort food favorite, the Buffalo wing. Fit for the masses, this one-bite wonder is boneless and is fixed with a hint of blue cheese and a sprig of celery — no muss, no fuss.

STK Rooftop's Tuna Taquitos
The best kind of party food should be one that your guests can grab and munch on in one to two bites. New York City's STK wanted to create something light and healthy; an option for those looking to enjoy hors d'oeuvres but not feel heavy or full from them.

The Spaghetti and Meatball
The Spaghetti and Meatball from chef Bob Spiegel features a meatball stuffed with olive oil atop a miniature tower of angel hair pasta tossed with a reduced tomato sauce. Spiegel finds his inspiration from re-imagining dishes one might find in a grandmother's kitchen to create surprising riffs on familiar themes.

Lobster Mac and Cheese
This brilliant pairing hails from Pinch Food Design—two favorite flavors, poached lobster and macaroni and cheese are combined with a simple swivel of a spoon. The question is, which side do you eat first?

Sweet Pepper Poppers
Sweet peppers filled with cheese and cream cheese, wrapped in bacon, brushed with barbecue sauce, these are always the first appetizers to disappear at my house. Great for kids and those of us who can't handle the jalapeno, that's me if you were wondering..—Milissa Armstrong, Miss in the Kitchen

Shrimp and Avocado Salad Appetizer
" One of the greatest tricks to a dinner party is finding menu items that look impressive without actually taking much work. This simple appetizer fits the bill — it only requires a few minutes of prep, but by showcasing it in the avocado shell you get a unique presentation that will wow any guests.—Ali Rosen, Video Producer, The Daily Meal

See all 25 party foods worth your attention here

More from The Daily Meal

15 Outrageous  Gingerbread Houses

The Ultimate holiday Treats Guide

Home Remedies That Actually Work

Holiday Chocolate Gift Guide

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FOXNews.com: 6 ways to make better hot chocolate

FOXNews.com
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6 ways to make better hot chocolate
Dec 29th 2012, 10:00

Last month we shared how to make a winter tradition — hot chocolate — into a new and exciting drink. And in honor of National Cocoa Day, we share even more ways to update your chocolate goodness.

Throw a hot chocolate party: A lazy Sunday afternoon with friends is instantly turned around with a hot chocolate party. With a few standby recipes, like Mexican hot chocolate or Belgian hot chocolate, you'll have enough to feed a hungry crowd.

Freeze it: Nothing will shake up a hot chocolate routine more than a frozen hot chocolate. Take notes from the pros at Serendipity 3 to learn how to do it, and get a peek at The Daily Meal's recipe for Frozen Hot Chocolate, or a Salty Hot Chocolate Float.  

Make a hot chocolate bar: Take notes from Boston's Rowes Wharf Sea Grille on their pop-up hot chocolate bar. Set up a hot chocolate bar with a classic hot chocolate, then place essential ingredients for chocolate lovers to add to their hot chocolate. Some ideas: orange extract and orange slices for an orange hot chocolate, maple syrup for a Canadian hot chocolate, pumpkin pie spice for a fall harvest hot chocolate, and almond extract and cinnamon for an almond hot chocolate. And make sure to include plenty of marshmallows in the mix.

Speaking of, make your own marshmallows: Good thing we have the recipe to do it.

Add some booze to it: As if you needed more reason to spike your drinks, we share from the Four Seasons recipes for a Millionaire's Mochaccino (made with Baileys, Frangelico, and Kahlúa), and the Sleigh Ride hot chocolate (made with Disaronno and brandy).

Throw some green chiles in it: Yes, really: the Four Seasons in Jackson Hole, Wyo. show us how in a Green Chile Hot Chocolate. This hot cocoa is for the brave.

See The Daily Meal's 10 alternatives to boring hot chocolate

More from The Daily Meal

22 Ways to Drink Your Dessert

Best and Worst Holiday Coffee Drinks

8 Holiday Ales to Drink This Winter

'Get Milk': What the Health Experts Say
 

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Friday, December 28, 2012

FOXNews.com: What to do in 2013

FOXNews.com
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What to do in 2013
Dec 29th 2012, 05:00

By Rob Sass

Published December 29, 2012

Hagerty

  • classic-car-restoration-660.jpg

New Year's resolutions, like the fine china— they're for breaking, right? Well, hopefully not. At any rate, these should be a lot more fun than cutting out reality TV and fatty foods or getting a gym membership. Here are five of our favorites:

  1. Buy and preserve an unrestored car: Nicely preserved unrestored cars occupy a special place in the classic car world. As the old saying goes, "it's only original once." And although awareness of the uniqueness and value of these cars is on the rise, appreciation for them is still not that widespread. So this year, go find an unmolested, original paint, original interior survivor-type car, preserve its originality and see if your favorite car show has a preservation class. If not, suggest that they start one.
  2. Have a constructive dialog with a Prius owner: It seems like Prius drivers have acquired the reputation of being not particularly friendly to the internal combustion engine (even though the Prius sports a small one). Strike up a conversation with a Prius driver and try to find some common ground. Maybe there's a former VW Beetle or Microbus owner with a great story or two behind the wheel of that Prius.
  3. Give back to the hobby: The wheels of the old car will grind to a halt without another generation to pick up the torch. Resolving to give a little back by taking a kid to a car show, participating in programs like the Hagerty Driving Experience, donating to the The Collectors Foundation or supporting the efforts of the Historic Vehicle Association are good places to start.
  4. Have a new automotive experience: As car people, some of us tend go with what we know and stay in our comfort zone, going to the same events every year and paying attention to the same makes and models. For those who resist a new experience, think of the book that so many of us enjoyed as kids — "Green Eggs and Ham." Porsche people, try a Corvette; Corvette guys, give a Porsche a spin. Mopar people, check out a Mustang.  And so on. Who knows, you might like it if you try it.
  5. Take a road trip in your classic: Few things are more rewarding in life than getting off the Interstates and the blandness that goes with them and seeing the small towns and sights that are America in a classic car, truck or motorcycle.

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FOXNews.com: Business Highlights

FOXNews.com
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Business Highlights
Dec 28th 2012, 23:25

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Fewer US banks failing as industry strengthens

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. banks are ending the year with their best profits since 2006 and fewer failures than at any time since the financial crisis struck in 2008. They're helping support an economy slowed by high unemployment, flat pay, sluggish manufacturing and anxious consumers.

As the economy heals from the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression, more people and businesses are taking out — and repaying — loans.

And for the first time since 2009, banks' earnings growth is being driven by higher revenue — a healthy trend. Banks had previously managed to boost earnings by putting aside less money for possible losses.

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Trains carrying more oil across US amid boom

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Energy companies behind the oil boom on the Northern Plains are increasingly turning to an industrial-age workhorse — the locomotive — to move their crude to refineries across the U.S., as plans for new pipelines stall and existing lines can't keep up with demand.

Delivering oil thousands of miles by rail from the heartland to refineries on the East, West and Gulf coasts costs more, but it can mean increased profits — up to $10 or more a barrel — because of higher oil prices on the coasts. That works out to about $700,000 per train.

The parade of mile-long trains carrying hazardous material out of North Dakota and Montana and across the country has experts and federal regulators concerned. Rail transport is less safe than pipelines, they say, and the proliferation of oil trains raises the risk of a major derailment and spill.

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Dockworkers strike averted for now at US ports

NEW YORK (AP) — Dockworkers along the East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico agreed Friday to extend their contract for more than a month, averting a weekend strike that could have crippled major ports from Boston to Houston and bottled up billions of dollars' worth of cargo.

Talks aimed at reaching a new contract covering the 14,500 longshoremen will continue during the extension, which runs through Feb. 6.

The dockworkers' union and an alliance of port operators and shipping lines agreed to the extension after resolving one of the stickier points in their negotiations, involving royalty payments to longshoremen for each container they unload. Details were not disclosed.

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Champagne loses fizz in Europe after tough year

PARIS (AP) — Europeans are finding fewer reasons to pop open a bottle of Champagne as another year of economic troubles and high unemployment saps the region's appetite for the finer things. But while the latest industry figures show that sales might be on the wane in Europe, other markets, particularly Japan and the United States, are developing a taste for a glass of bubbly.

In what is certain to be bad news for the vineyards, France — Champagne's largest market — is drinking fewer bottles. Sales of Champagne for the country were down 4.9 percent, and 5 percent elsewhere in the 27-country European Union, in the first nine months of 2012 compared with the same period in 2011, according to CIVC, the national association of growers and producers of the wine.

Nineteen months of rising unemployment and growing fears that the worst is yet to come have taken their toll on France — nearly seven in 10 French are worried about their country's future, according to a recent poll.

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US pending home sales rise to highest in 2½ years

WASHINGTON (AP) — A measure of Americans who signed contracts to buy homes increased last month to its highest level in two and a half years, the latest sign of improvement in the once-battered housing market.

The National Association of Realtors said Friday that its seasonally adjusted pending home sales index rose 1.7 percent in November from October to 106.4. That's the highest since April 2010, when a homebuyer tax credit caused a spike in sales. And after excluding those months when the tax credit was available, it's the best reading since February 2007.

The increase followed a 5 percent gain in October and suggests higher sales of previously occupied homes in the coming months. There's generally a one- to two-month lag between a signed contract and a completed sale.

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UK's Pearson invests in Barnes & Noble's Nook

LONDON (AP) — Pearson, the U.K. publisher and education company, is to take a 5 percent stake in Barnes & Noble's NOOK e-reader as technology companies seek new inroads into the potentially lucrative business of digital textbooks for schools.

Pearson PLC will pay $89.5 million cash for a 5 percent stake in NOOK Media LLC which includes the bookseller's e-reader and tablets, its digital bookstore and its 674 stores serving U.S. colleges. Barnes & Noble will hold 78.2 percent of the business and Microsoft will have about 16.8 percent, the company said Friday.

Major tech companies have looked for inroads into the industry, seeing tablets like the iPad and the NOOK as replacements for the dozens of books that students must lug to and from school each day.

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HP says government investigating troubled Autonomy unit

NEW YORK (AP) — Autonomy, the British business software company now owned by Hewlett-Packard Co., is facing a Justice Department investigation over improper accounting under previous management, according to HP.

In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission late Thursday, HP said Justice officials had informed the company on Nov. 21 that they were opening an investigation into the allegations, which HP said in November that it had uncovered after a senior Autonomy executive came forward.

HP also reiterated that it provided information to the SEC and the U.K. Serious Fraud Office related to "accounting improprieties, disclosure failures and misrepresentations at Autonomy." HP said it was cooperating with all three government agencies.

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China court orders Apple to pay in rights dispute

BEIJING (AP) — A Chinese court has ordered Apple Inc. to pay 1.03 million yuan ($165,000) to eight Chinese writers and two companies who say unlicensed copies of their work were distributed through Apple's online store.

The Beijing No. 2 Intermediate People's Court ruled Thursday that Apple violated the writers' copyrights by allowing applications containing their work to be distributed through its App Store, according to an official who answered the phone at the court and said he was the judge in the case. He refused to give his name, as is common among Chinese officials.

The award was less than the 12 million yuan ($1.9 million) sought by the authors. The case grouped together eight lawsuits filed by them and their publishers.

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FDA clears anticlotting drug Eliquis

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Food and Drug Administration says it has approved the anticlotting drug Eliquis, developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Pfizer Inc. It's a potential blockbuster drug in a new category of medicines to prevent strokes.

The agency previously rejected the drug twice, most recently in June, awaiting additional data from company trials.

The FDA cleared the pill for treating the most common type of irregular heartbeat — atrial fibrillation — in patients at risk for strokes or dangerous clots.

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By The Associated Press(equals)

The Dow Jones industrial average dropped 158.20 points to 12,938.11 points. The Standard & Poor 500 index fell 15.67 points to 1,402.43 and the Nasdaq dropped 25.59 points to 2,960.31.

U.S. benchmark crude fell 7 cents to finish at $90.80 a barrel. In London, Brent crude, used to price various kinds of foreign oil, fell 18 cents to finish at $110.62 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange.

Wholesale gasoline fell 2 cents to end at $2.80 a gallon. Heating oil fell 3 cents to finish at $3.04 a gallon. Natural gas rose 6 cents to end at $3.47 per 1,000 cubic feet.

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FOXNews.com: DIY upcycled light fixture bases

FOXNews.com
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DIY upcycled light fixture bases
Dec 28th 2012, 05:00

One of the most decorative and yet utilitarian items for the home is the lighting, in particular decorative lighting such as table or floor lamps and hanging fixtures. While the standard urn shaped base topped with a round shade is always the easy go-to, there are so many other distinct ways to light your space in style. Best of all, there are many creative DIY options when it comes to shades and bases that won't break the bank.

Nearly anything that is sturdy and can be drilled can be turned into a lamp base. While it's not a great idea to drill into a priceless antique, there are many old pieces that have been given new life when they are converted into beautiful lamps.

Galvanized milk jugs: Back in the late 60's, my Dad had a pair of vintage galvanized steel milk jugs turned into lamp bases and topped with burlap barrel shades. These lamps were in regular use in the family home for nearly 30 years and never went out of style. With vintage and upcycled goods being all the rage currently, this pair of lamps would still be in demand.

Metal baskets: In 2010, the HGTV Green Home in Plymouth, Massachusetts featured a quirky pendant light over the dining table that was made from an inverted metal basket hung from a chain. While that particular piece came from Found in Houston (an emporium that sells unusual light fixtures restored rewired by Houston electricians, as well as high end restored home furnishings), it would certainly be an easy project to fit out any similarly shaped basket with a light kit, found at any home improvement store.

Antlers, real or fake: We've seen many antler chandeliers in home design circles recently, but there is no reason why a small portion of a rack couldn't be turned into a unique table lamp base, as long as it can stand upright.

Old books: Looking for a distinct table lamp for a library or to inspire your kids to study? How about creating a lamp base from a stack of vintage or out of date books that have been drilled through the center? Glue the books together and run a lighting kit through the middle and top with a decorative shade. Similarly, old silver or porcelain teapots make sweet little table lamps and a pair of tall leather riding boots can be turned into a couple of stylish table lamps.

Metals: In addition to an inverted metal basket as detailed above, pendant lights can be created from nearly anything that is impervious to the heat of a light bulb. Wrap a wire frame with wool yarn for a cozy fixture, or hang a colorful metal colander in a kitchen for a country casual look.

Luxury goods boxes: If your teen is shopping obsessed, create a colorful lamp base made from stacking assorted sizes of Tiffany or Hermes boxes and running a light kit through the middle. For lighter weight objects such as boxes, it may be necessary to affix them to a sturdy wooden base or you might simply fill the bottom box with sand or stones for added weight.

Where ever your interests lie, there is certainly a lamp to fit your style. If wiring a lighting kit, or drilling into a found object seems a bit out of your league, a local lighting store should be able to point you in the direction of a handyman who can assist you.

Linda Merrill wrote this for Networx.com.

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