Grand Opening of Phil Hardberger Park in San Antonio TX

Posted on May 14, 2010 by *Geekette*

Join the City of San Antonio at their newest recreational park, Phil Hardberger Park, this Saturday and Sunday. I got a sneak peak this past Thursday and was incredibly impressed with the park’s walking trails, dog park, and playgrounds! Phase 2 (slated to start summer 2010) will include a permanent educational center, restrooms (portables available in the meantime…), and other enhancements!

Saturday, May 15, 2010 – 10am: Park Dedication Ceremony which will include the unveiling of the sign!

Hours of park and complimentary shuttle service schedule from both the Alon HEB Shopping Center (11503 NW Military Hwy) and Churchhill High School (12049 Blanco Rd) will be available during the following times:

Saturday, May 15: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 16: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to go on nature walks given by local nature groups in order to see animal wildlife and Texas flora. Although the trails are only .8 miles long, they are heavily shaded with lush green trees and connect to larger wilderness trails!

Dogs are welcomed on leases!

* 2010 Educational schedule here *

*Attendees who participate in the Passport to Nature activity in the park will receive a free tree as they depart from the shuttle, while supplies last.

Celebrate Earth Day 2010 | 40th Anniversary

Posted on April 20, 2010 by *Geekette*

Earth Day originally started on April 22, 1970 when it was originally founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson – designed to educate and appreciate the Earth’s environment.

EarthDay.org

Follow their tweets – @EarthDayNetwork
Become a Fan of Earth Day Network on Facebook
Sign the Petition! “Demand that our leaders pass strong climate legislation that benefits all Americans“
FREE ride to Washington, DC for Climate Rally
Take action by committing to simple ways to positively impact the climate!

Earth Day Climate Rally | Washington, DC

When: Sunday, April 25, 2010

More information here.

How Green are You?!

Carbon Footprint Quiz

Find out how large your ecological (carbon) footprint is by taking this interactive quiz including information on reducing your footprint!

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EAP)

Mission: Protect human health and the environment.

EPA Earth Day links:

EAP Blog
@Greenversations
Commit to 5 Actions
Local events to volunteer and/or attend
Blog Widgets – find the UV index, Earth Day countdowns, questions of the week, and lots more!

Become a fan on Facebook!
Follow on Twitter – @epagov

2010 NCAA Women’s Final Four San Antonio

Posted on March 27, 2010 by *Geekette*

Next weekend is a HUGE weekend for Women’s Basketball! Of course you should support your favorite teams by watching the games…but there’s a LOT more to be done!

Check out the 2010 NCAA Tournament Women’s Bracket here. Find out who’s left and who’s still in! Sic ‘em Lady Bears!

NCAA Women’s Final Four

Next weekend is a HUGE weekend for Women’s Basketball! Of course you should support your favorite teams by watching the games…but there’s a LOT more to be done!

{ Complete Fan Guide }

Tickets

Buy your tickets on Ticketmaster.com!

Events

Check out a FULL list of events for the weekend of April 2^nd through the 4^th!

Tourney Town

Tourney Town is FREE to all and offers NCAA Women’s Final Four fans a chance to check out interactive basketball exhibits, music, food, contests, freebies, and more! Find more information on Facebook too!

Definitely a family-friendly festival celebrating all the greats in women’s college basketball at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Feel free improve your skills during the youth clinics, open play, and other games.

Friday, April 2 – Noon – 9:30 p.m.
Center Stage Highlights:
Family Pop Rock Concert with Kate Voegele, 4:30 p.m.
Live R&B and Soul Favorites with The Atlantics, 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 3 – 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Center Stage Highlights:
Texas Talent Showdown® Refreshed By Coke Zero Finals, 1-3 p.m.
State Farm Coaches’ All America Team Autograph Session, 3:30 p.m.
AT&T Mascot Challenge, 5:30 p.m.
Tourney Town Hot Country Music Concert with Joe Nichols, JR Castillo & Unwound, and Charla Corn, 7-11 p.m.

Sunday, April 4 – Noon-5 p.m.

Center Stage Highlights:
Time Out in Tourney Town® Pre Game Party with performances by Ayla Brown, Sarah Lenore and DJMel

Social Media

Become a Fan of the NCAA 2010 Women’s Final Four on Facebook!

Become a Fan of NCAA Women’s Basketball on Facebook!

Follow @NCAAWomensBKB‘s tweets – written by Sue Donohoe, Vice President of Division 1 Women’s Basketball!

Directions to the Alamo Dome

Whether you’re visiting San Antonio for the first time, or just have trouble heading downtown…here are some helpful directions to the Alamo Dome:

From Interstate 35 North

Use U.S. Highway 281 South/I-37 South exit.

South on U.S. Highway 281/I-37.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 35 South

Use U.S. Highway 90 East and exit U.S. Highway 281 North/I-37 North.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 10 East

Use U.S. Highway 281 North/I-37 North exit.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 10 West

Use I-35 North.

Exit I-37 South.

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From Interstate 37 South

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

From U.S. Highway 281 North

Lot C: Exit Commerce Street.

East on Commerce to Cherry Street.

South on Cherry into Lot C.

Lot B: Exit Durango Street.

East on Durango to Cherry.

North on Cherry into Lot B.

2010 Red Hat Summit and JBoss World Conference

Posted on March 15, 2010 by *Geekette*

What are you doing this summer? Forget Disney World in Florida, head to Boston, Mass., for the hottest Open Source party in the country – Red Hat Summit and JBoss World.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend

Where: Boston, Massachusetts

When: June 22-25, 2010

JBoss is an open-source Java EE application server. Now a division of Red Hat, this

2010 Red Hat Summit and JBoss World Agenda

At a glance, find out what’s going on – from Tuesday, 6/22 through Friday, 6/25, it’s a nonstop fast track full of dynamic topics and happy hour good times.

Tuesday, June 22 & Wednesday, June 23 – welcome receptions, keynote speakers, and tons of breakout sessions!
Thursday, June 24 – keynote speakers, breakout sessions, even a Pub Crawl!
Friday, June 25 – breakout sessions, joint expert panel, innovation awards, and closing ceremony!

*MUST SEE: “JBoss TCO, Performance, & Capabilities Comparison Results” on June 24 at 10:20am to 11:20am to learn:

Attendees will leave this session with an understanding about why JBoss Enterprise Application Platform is a worthy replacement for costly proprietary application servers.

{ Past Red Hat Summit & JBoss World Conferences }

Agenda Tracks

Red Hat Summit – whether you’re already using open source or looking to investigate more, this track will teach you about enterprise level applications available from the open source community.
JBoss World – traversing this high-tech track will stimulate your geeky nerve endings and teach you about maximizing your JBoss potential!
Cloud – offered throughout the entire conference, the cloud computing track offers insight into open source cloud technology and how you can apply it at a huge cost-savings.
Labs – on Wednesday and Thursday, check out these interactive learning sessions

Speakers

Keynote – Jim Whitehurst, Paul Cormier, and Brian Stevens are headlining at this years conference!
Session – do you know an open source celebrity scheduled to speak? Check out this A-Z session speaker index to quickly find them!

Check out this year’s sponsors!

Conference Social Media

Summit Blog – check back for the latest updates.
@RedHatSummit – follow their interactive tweets for the latest information about the conference, the speakers, sessions, and more!
Facebook Fan – become a fan on Facebook to get more information, interact with other open source fans, and more!
YouTube – check out the latest online videos about the event!
LinkedIn – RSVP to the event through LinkedIn to let them know you’re coming! (Does NOT count as registration…)
Flickr – pictures from last year’s and 2010!

Rates & Travel

Rates – make sure you register before May 1, 2010 for the early bird prices! If you went last year you’ll get an alumni savings of $600! Work for the government? There’s deals for you too! Great group rates for 3-4, and 5+ people!
Travel – hosted by the Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center, in the historic district (make reservations by June 1^st to take advantage of the conference rate specials!)

SeaWorld San Antonio Coupons

Posted on March 12, 2010 by *Geekette*

Don’t forget to check out these printable coupons, deals, and events that make seeing Shamu even more worth it! Also find out the difference between SeaWorld’s Fun Pass and their Season pass and when you should buy one over the other. My daughter and I LOVE spending time together at SeaWorld San Antonio. It is a LOT more personal and intimate than other amusement parks, and you just leave with a good feeling.

Fun Pass vs. Season Pass

Fun Pass

Purchase your 2010 Fun Card for the price of a single day admission ticket and come back all year!

Season Pass

Parking Included – show your season pass at the gate for FREE regular parking
20% off food and merchandise – throughout the entire year (just flash your pass)
Pass Member Events – season pass holders get to go to special events just for them! Keep in mind that ONLY the season pass member can attend, not one season pass per family…
Special rates on Behind the Scenes Tours, Camp SeaWorld, and Dine with Shamu.

SeaWorld Promotional Offers

Lifetime Fitness Savings – are you a member of the nationwide gym? Save 20% off at the San Diego location and 15% off at all other Busch Garden locations.
Promotion Code – enter
- “SAVE” – $7 off single day pass and more!
- “McDonalds2010” - to save at Busch Gardens Tampa, SeaWorld Orlando, and more!
San Antonio Attractions (Greater San Antonio Area Tourism Council) offers this coupon

March Coupons for Sea World San Antonio

20% discount for Sesame Street Breakfast
$10 off Adult/Child one day admission ticket
FREE tray of fish at Sea Lion feeding (w/ purchase of 1 tray)
20% off food and merchandise
20% discount on All You Care to Eat and Drink All Day deal
$5 off Quick Queue Pass (skip lines at a discounted rate!)

MOST RECENT: Annual Pass Members Monthly Coupons/Offers – http://passMemberUpdates.com

Pass Member Advantages:

One reason to consider getting a season pass (instead of a fun pass) is to take advantage of the HUGE savings offered to ONLY season pass holders.

For example, on March 28, 2010 from 12pm to 4pm Pass Members are invited to spin for a chance to win exclusive SeaWorld merchandise or $20 gift cards to Lowe’s. (My daughter and I spun to win at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo this past February…lots of fun…)

2010 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

Posted on February 13, 2010 by *Geekette*

After being gifted with FREE box tickets to the rodeo this year I thought I should do my homework on my greatly appreciated prize!

Last year the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo was attended by over 1,300,000 poeple!! During that time they raised almost $1,800,000 in scholarships during the Livestock and Horseshow exhibitors! In 2009, they were also inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, CO. (For more fun facts about the Rodeo check out: Fun Facts)

When: The 2010 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo will last from February 4th through February 21!

Where: 3201 East Houston Street, San Antonio, Texas 78219
View Larger Map

Grounds Hours & Admission Prices:

*OPEN EVERYDAY (8am until between 10pm & midnight)

Adult – $7.00
Senior Citizen (ages 60 & over) – $5.00
Children (2 to 11 yrs of age) – $3.00
Children (under 2 yrs of age) – FREE

*Season Grounds Pass (unlimited grounds admission for 18 days) – $20.00 by stopping by the ATT Center SW Box Office, calling 210.225.5851, or emailing tickets@rodeo.com (or visiting HEB business centers!)

Carnival Hours

If you’re going to enjoy the carnival, take advantage of these offers! My daughter and I ALWAYS enjoy going to the carnival!

Friday, Feb. 5th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Monday – Thursday: Opens at 4:00pm
Friday, Feb. 12th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Monday, Feb. 15th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Friday, Feb. 19th (Dollar Day): 11:00am
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00am

Stock Show & Rodeo Family Fair

Area of the Stock Show & Rodeo grounds which provides a wide variety of interactive activities and attractions geared towards family fun, education and live musical entertainment. All venues located in Family Fair have the same hours of operation (see below).

My daughter and I really enjoy the Pig Races…I remember selecting a pig to win when I was young and the tradition has continued with her!

Sunday through Thursday: 10am – 9pm
Friday and Saturday: 10am – 10pm

Helping Others

What to help someone else? Special ticket programs!

Business charity program helped over 2000 individuals last year! Choose your favorite charity and give generously! Your contributions can also support the military and wounded and injured soldiers!

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Deals

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo offers an incredible time for friends and family, especially those that take advantage of THESE offers:

GREAT DEALS

Rodeo Feast!

Get tickets through Ticketmaster or call 1-877-63-Rodeo:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/San-Antonio-Stock-Show-and-Rodeo-tickets/artist/804262

4 rodeo tickets ($10 level), 4 hot dogs, 4 chips, and 4 sodas for $49!

Fan Appreciation Night!

February 9th and 15th, purchase two rodeo tickets and get nachos FREE!

February 9th and 15th, purchase two rodeo tickets and get nachos FREE

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days: Fridays ONLY (2/5, 2/12, 2/19)!

$1 grounds admission from 8am-6pm, rides, hot dogs, popcorn, and sodas in carnival $1 ALL day long!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days: Fridays ONLY (2/5, 2/12, 2/19)! $1 grounds admission from 8am-6pm, rides, hot dogs, popcorn, and sodas in carnival $1 ALL day long!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

College Days Thursdays only, Feb. 4, 11, 18…free admission to grounds with current college ID!

College Days Thursdays only, Feb. 4, 11, 18...free admission to grounds with current college ID!

Free USAA Military Fridays!

Current and former military receive free grounds admission every Friday during the Rodeo, courtesy of USAA!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Text Alerts!

Get the latest San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo news alerts, exclusive offers, and event information on your mobile device!

Text RODEO to 50927!

Get the latest San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo news alerts, exclusive offers, and event information on your mobile device! Text RODEO to 50927!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App in iTunes!

– Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App –

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App in iTunes!

Dollar Admission: President’s Day – Feb. 15, 2010!

Monday, Feb. 15th, $1 grounds admissions!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Senior Day!

Free grounds admission for anyone over 55 years on Tuesdays, Feb. 9th & 16th!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Entertainment

http://www.sarodeo.com/sarodeo/rodeo_concert/2010entertainment.html

Entertainment from past rodeos: http://www.sarodeo.com/client/media/80/3608/rodeo_performers_all_time.doc

http://www.ticketmaster.com/San-Antonio-Stock-Show-and-Rodeo-tickets/artist/804262

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Entertainment Linueup

!

Rodeo Events

Send an E-Card

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Stock Show and Rodeo

Become a Fan on Facebook

Follow @SanAntonioRodeo‘s tweets!

Myspace

Valentine’s Day with a View Contest at The Westin La Cantera Resort

Posted on February 8, 2010 by *Geekette*

As soon as I heard about The Westin La Cantera Resort‘s Valentine’s Day with a View contest I was VERY excited to enter. I love to read wonderfully romantic stories (i.e. Chicken Soup for the Soul: True Love), watching unrealistic “chick flicks” on Netflix’s instant Romance queue, and reading romance novels (not of the graphic variety)…more like all of Kristin Billerbeck‘s fun, witty romance series. (I couldn’t write this post in good conscience without including helpful links and fun facts.)

*Besides my blog post on Valentine’s Day deals, check out Buxr’s Valentine’s Day deals here.

<Perfect Valentine’s Day>

5 Critical Components

Although I’m low-key enough to enjoy ANYTHING, making whatever we did special, my homework assignment was to blog about the PERFECT experience…that would easily be achieved by including the following in our itinerary:

1 – Flowers Delivered in a Box (purchased w/ a coupon!!) – there’s something terribly romantic about getting flowers that you weren’t expecting that were delivered in a box. (Think old-school Hollywood…) Enough said.

2 – The Fray – my favorite group since they arrived on the music scene in 2005 with How to Save a Life I have loved their lyrics and melodies. Part of perfection is knowing you’re with someone special who appreciates all your idiosyncrasies, including fanatical infatuations with bands other people (insanely?!) are less excited by.

3 – Lamb Chops – I never understand people who think of “eating away your money” in a negative context. I truly enjoy great culinary experiences. I savor each bite and literally experience a Pavlovian reaction whenever I read menus! My ideal Valentine’s Day would include lingering over a 7 course prix fix meal and basking in scintillating conversation (see Critical Component #5).

4 – Darts - Well after we have dessert-ed and digested comfortably, and before Cinderella’s midnight deadline, throwing darts at a non-smoking, great music, empty bar with my favorite kind of electronic dartboards (which charges a quarter, not 75 cents a game…or unlimited…that’s good too.) I <3 playing darts, I’m competitive, I play to win! {Bonus Points } Give me pink darts (tips and flights) as a V-Day gift!

5 – Wonderful Conversation – Above all else, this is most important to me. Just enjoying each other verbally throughout the entire evening. Recapping wonderful memories from the past year, discussing plans for new vacations and making more memories, and reminding each other that regardless of the tough stuff, the reasons it’s worked as well as it has is because of the non-negotiable characteristic each other possesses, reveling in that realization!

</Perfect Valentine’s Day>

Check out all entries and tweets by following the #VDayView hashtag.

Also, don’t forget to find out all the latest by following @WestinLaCantera on Twitter and becoming a fan on Facebook!

This post is part of The Westin La Cantera Resort’s Valentine’s Day with a View contest. Enter between Jan. 25 and Feb. 8 for your chance to win a one-night stay for two at The Westin La Cantera Resort on Saturday, February 13, which includes a romantic dinner for two at Francesca’s at Sunset and two rounds of golf to be played at either of our championship courses during your stay. Learn more at http://www.westinlacantera.com/Valentines-Twitter.html

2010 Super Bowl XLIV Party | Game Day Deals

Posted on February 3, 2010 by *Geekette*

Since I already made a couple of posts for Valentine’s Day sales and activities it would be discriminatory of me to exclude the 44th Super Bowl this Sunday, February 7th, 2010 at 8pm CST at Land Shark Stadium in Miami, Florida on CBS.

*May I also just wish Peyton Manning the best luck! Cheers to a player who’s old-school, who plays each game with incredible enthusiasm and passion (and he still calls his own plays!) I <3 Peyton! Go Colts!

versus

Super Bowl Resources

Espn
@nfl follow the NFL tweets!
NFL Players on Twitter - check out this list of 259 NFL players, leagues, and sports writers and follow their tweets during the big game!
Sirius Satellite Radio lists tons of pre/post game stations
NFL.com
Martha Stewart offers a very nice Super Bowl 101 course for those less versed in football vernacular. (My fantasy football team placed 2nd this year so I’m fluent. ;-D)

Restaurants & Food

Recipes

Reader’s Digest
Pillsbury Food Coupons
Martha Stewart
Food Network

Restaurants

Roaring Fork is offering buy one entree, get one free with happy hour prices at the bar all night long on game day!
Paloma Blanca is offering 20% off to-go, delivery, and off-site catering on Super Bowl Sunday!
Aldacos is oferring party sized Super Bowl savings.
Papa Johns is a proud official sponsor of the Super Bowl, sign up for their email specials!
Pizza Hut is offering all kinds of local deals!

Party Supplies

Invitations could only be done by Pingg! Not to late to keep track of your invitations and setup a Super Bowl party with super classy online invitations.

Supplies

NFL Shop is offering 20% off when you use NFLWIN20 at checkout!
Party City has all of your party supplies!

Super Sales

Newegg is offering super savings on HD TVs, speakers, and everything else electronically enhancing!
Pottery Barn has personalized gift options for the big Super Bowl fanatic in your life.

Colt McCoy Interview After 2010 BCS Championship

Posted on January 31, 2010 by *Geekette*

Check out this candid, touching interview from Colt McCoy when interviewed a couple weeks after the devastating hit that left him unable to finish the game in Pasadena California, at the 2010 National BCS Championship Game.

After his eloquent post-game interview, immediately following the end of the Championships, Colt’s faith in God brought tears to my eyes. The following interview given to Max Lucado (co-pastor of Oak Hills Church in San Antonio) continues to demonstrate Colt’s faith that God will continue to provide for him and Colt knows they plans for him will continue to be incredible.

Max’s sermon cleverly intertwined Colt’s story of his seemingly devastating loss, the moment he spent his whole life working towards, only to have to stop playing minutes into the most important of his college career, maybe even his life. Although Colt didn’t expect to be unable to play, he understood that his testament would be even more meaningful and have the potential to lead more to God’s love under such extreme circumstances.

***For more more sermons and moving interviews, please check out Oak Hills Church on Vimeo!

Colt McCoy’s Interview w/ Max Lucado:

Towards the end of the sermon Max made such a powerful, yet simple statement. Like parents who know exactly what their children need and want, so does God for us…and He will provide our greatest wants and needs…maybe in ways we don’t understand at first, or at times when we’re are not ready.

Xtreme Kleen | Product Review

Posted on January 18, 2010 by *Geekette*

Let me say it’s a good thing I don’t get cable and am not tempted to be sucked into “As Seen On TV” commercials!

Even though there are signs all around my neighborhood, No Solicitors, my doorbell almost always rings for no other reason but someone peddling their goods. Unfortunately I always listen to their spiel and get sucked in. Normally I can be very good about saying no but in case you meet the same fate as I did against the incredible convincing and persistent Xtreme Kleen sales person (who cleaned the rim on my car, an oil stain in the driveway, a portion of my stove, the grout between some tile , a stain on the carpet, and ink on the wall…), here’s everything you’ll want t know about the product.

Website: http://xccinc.com/

The official website is listed below. I used that same address to track them down in the Better Business Bureau…to find out just how legit they were. I breathed a HUGE sign of relief to find out they got a B, even after 14 complaints being filed in the past 36 months…they had all be resolved. The website also gives you 3 days to return for a full-money back refund if you’re unsatisfied with your miracle product. You can also buy some for yourself from the website (I definitely did NOT get this product for free or at a discounted rate so I have no emotional connection to it…)

You get a large gallon jug, a brush with iron bristles and a flip side with soft bristles, 2 steel wood type pads, and a spray bottle with lines for easy ratio measurements. Basically ratios are some part Xtreme Cleen product and other part water…I bought 3 different colored spray bottles from Ikea and put different ratios in each. That way I only use the measurement bottle for measurements and don’t need to worry about switching out concentration levels each time I move to another area of the house.

The website also lists the ratios in case you lose the brochure or forget what your options are.

If you have questions you can also contact the company.

Oh, and before I forget, here’s what it can’t do:

It is not recommended for use on silk, satin, suede, low grade latex wall paint or any other surface / fabric not designed to get wet.

I have included some pictures below but am so far impressed on the product’s ability to deliver…I was able to clean my oven and stove fairly quickly, get an ink mark off the wall by myself (not surprised when the sales person can do it…), and most impressively so far…the ability to clean OLD stains on my carpet! I’m curious to find out others’ experiences, let me know and leave me a comment!

Active Ingredient: 2-Butoxyethanol a.k.a. Butyl Cellosolve is referenced in the website’s “Material Data Safety Sheet“:

organic solvent …colorless…main uses include solvent in paint and cleaning supplies…other uses include firefighting foam, oil spill dispersant, whiteboard cleaners, and herbicides…

Apparently it really does do it all! Although my sales person said it was non-toxic (demonstrated by a quick taste test…) I don’t think I would chug it if I were you…but you don’t have to take my word for it.

Xtreme Kleen: Simple to Klean

Before: The Stove (not mine...)

After: The Stove (simply sprayed and let soak for 5 minutes...rubbed off w/ abrasive sponge)

Before: Not pretty when sauce bubbles over...

After: Now it is! (Ratio was 10:1)

Before: The Oven (rarely deep-cleaned for past 3 years)

After: The Oven (sprayed w/ ratio 10:1, let sit for 15 minutes, warmed oven...)

Before: Carpet w/ gum rubbed in, a year later...

After: The carpet after letting ration 5:1 soak for 5 minutes and rubbing with a soft-bristle brush.

Before: The carpet with a longtime soy sauce stain...

During: Letting Xtreme Kleen soak for a couple minutes...

After: No more soy sauce! After rubbing vigorously for a couple moments, gone!

Before: The carpet with sticky residue from a red candy...

During: Letting Xtreme Kleen soak and already red has disappeared.

After: The carpet is red free! Rubbed with brush for good measure...

All in all, I’m happy I didn’t get ripped off and am pretty sure my supply will last me a good amount of time, letting me get my money’s worth.

Fun, Educational Resources for 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

Posted on January 10, 2010 by *Geekette*

If you’re looking for game schedules, freebies, athletes that tweet, and other details about this year’s Winter Games, check out my other blog post, 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. As I was writing that post I ran into incredible education resources and fun stuff for kids…I wanted to keep it separate and figure out which was worth investigating.

This post is dedicated to the educational opportunities for teachers and kids being offered online! I have found links to online games, printable worksheets and coloring pages, and also information that I definitely didn’t expect to find preschool aged children through the 12^th grade! Emotionally connect your family and students to the 21^st Winter Olympics with these resources!

Meeting the 2010 Olympic Mascots

From left to right, meet snowboarding Miga, Quatchi who loves playing hockey, and Sumi.

***Find out when you can meet them LIVE!

Mascot	Meaning Behind Choice
Quatchi the Sasquatch	The sea bear is inspired by the legends of the Pacific Northwest First Nations, tales of orca whales that transform into bears when they arrive on land.The Kermode bear is a rare white or cream-coloured sub-species of the black bear that is unique to the central West Coast of British Columbia.
Sumi the Animal Spirit	Transformation is a common theme in the art and legend of West Coast First Nations. Transformation represents the connection and kinship between the human, animal and spirit world.The bear often represents strength and friendship. And the thunderbird — which creates thunder by flapping its wings — is one of the most powerful of the supernatural creatures.
Miga the Young Sea Bear	The sasquatch is a popular figure in local native legends of the Pacific West Coast.The sasquatch reminds us of the mystery and wonder that exist in the natural world, igniting our imagination about the possibility of undiscovered creatures in the great Canadian wilderness.

Online 2010 Olympic Games & Activities for Kids

Game	Details
Miga Moves	Mascot Rockband, match the letters V/B/N/M in time to falling starfish!Difficulty: MediumThis one takes some keyboard coordination…older kids (and adults) will really enjoy!
Soaring Sumi	Keep Sumi flying across Canada by hitting the spacebar to move up! Fly up or down to avoid obstacles and hit health points!Difficulty: EasyEasier than most games, simple hit spacebar without worrying about other keys/mouse.
Shootout Shutout	Face off against Miga and Sumi in some fast-paced one-on-one hockey!Difficulty: HardThis game takes the MOST coordination, not only do you have to use LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move back and forth as the goalie, you also have to use the 1-3 number keys that correspond with colored pucks. Definitely for older kids.
Operation Recycle	Help Miga, Quatchi, and Sumi with their neighborhood recycling program!Difficulty: Easy/MediumAlthough it does not require a lot of coordination it does require some thought. Complete rounds by successfully finishing 5 levels. Includes a little physics, test your trajectory skills by holding the mouse button down and dragging to aim towards target! *My 6 year old daugher enjoyed this game the most!
Which Mascot Are You Like	Take this quiz to see which mascot you’re most like…your child’s first personality test…next stop Meyer-Briggs!

Other Fun Activities:

Send E-cards	Select 1 of 4 mascot scenes, decorate VERY easily, add verbage, and send to family and friends!
Crafts and Color Printables	Download and print craft activities (make 3-d mascots!!) and get printable coloring sheets
Download Desktops & Wallpapers	Download (for Windows only…) an interactive desktop to decorate with stickers, information about the ceremony, add an Olympics countdown, and much more…Download static Wallpapers for those that desires less interactivity.

Paralympic Games

Sumi is officially the mascot of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Game…check out this printable passport activity book to track his and your journeys! After printing out those, print out this printable coloring sheet to color your own Sumi!

Featured Programs

Check out these fun facts about the Paralympic Winter Games (pdf). Although Paralympic School Week in School has already passed officially (November 2-6, 2009) you can still support the Paralympic Games any time. Resources for educators found on the official games website here. Here’s the link to the “Guide for Educators” to celebrating in your skills with informative details, activities, and other helpful stuff.

Educational Resources

The Canadian Olympic School program seeks to inspire young students through Olympian stories, activities, projects, activities and more and offers:

Teacher Resources for educators with printable PDFs, videos, pictures, and more!
Student Lounge geared towards school aged kids
Playground for Younger Kids means you don’t have to be in school to catch the spirit with additional games, puzzles, and contests.
Library section to answer all your kids’ questions

School-Aged Kids: Additionally there are these printable Olympic Games Project Packs pdf. Includes additional resources for teachers or your kids:

Destination Vancouver - Planning a vacation to Vancouver
Tough Call - Respond to tough situations as the Olympic Team’s communication staff
Speedy Recovery - Create an athlete’s injury treatment plan
Save, share, and Spend – financial planning during tough economic times
Own the Podium - Analyze data with probability and trig skills to find out what it takes to “Own the Podium”
Financing the Olympic Dream – what it costs, how to budget, invest, and borrow to reach Olympic goals
Design brochure – hired to develop the ultimate youth travel package, come up with the advertisement!

Passing the Torch Activities:

Topic	Details
Math & Science	Grades 4-7Discover the math and science behind the Olympic Torch and the Olympic Torch Relay Route.
Social Studies	Grades K-3, 4-7, and 8-10Learn more about your community and Canadian heritage through Olympic Torch Relay themed lesson plans.
Language Arts	Grades 1-7 and 8-10Explore how the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will bring Canadians together in the spirit of peace, unity and friendship.
Physical Activity	Grades 1-7 and 8-10Get your students active in the spirit of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

Make Your Own Peace

This is a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about practicing peaceful behaviors and making peace in their home and communities. Starting on February 4, 2010, check out “Sharing the Dream” webcasts inspired by the Olympic Truce and led by children.

2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

Posted on January 10, 2010 by *Geekette*

The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics are here!

In celebration, I have posted everything you wanted to know about the 2010 Vancouver Winter games including information from the official website, the Olympic torch, freebies, schedules, athletes, and fan information! I went through and found all of the links that I’d want to know about (but would NEVER have considered searching for on my own.)

The XXI Olympic Winter Games will be the 21^st Winter Olympics, starting February 12^th and continuing through the 28^th in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This blog post includes information about all of the “official” websites, video games, following the torch, travel information and other details and freebies the 2010 games are offering!

There is projected to be over 80 nations represented during the 86 winter sports. Ghana, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Colombia, Peru, Montenegro, and Serbia will also make their winter Olympic debuts!

Official Website: Vancouver2010.com

Official schedule and results!
Latest News
Official Olympic Store
Buy Fan to Fan tickets
Photos
Spectator FAQ
Videos
Athletes or this awesome map of metals won by country!

Official Broadcaster: NBC Olympics

TV Listing
All-time Winter Metal Standings
Countdown to Vancouver headlines
All the athletes
Photos

2010 Olympic Torch Relay:

Originating from Greek mythology, the Olympic Flame torch is a cherished symbol of the modern day games starting in the 1928 Summer games in Amsterdam.

The tradition starts several months before opening day, transports the flame from Greece to the center of the stadium and burns brightly throughout the duration of the games.

Starts	Oct. 30, 2009
Days in Transit	106 day run
Number of Torchbearers	12,000
Follow Torch on Twitter	@FollowTheFlame
Number of Stops	over 1000
Length of Journey	almost 30,000 miles
2010 Olympic Torch Relay Emblem	Entitled "A Path of Northern Lights"

Official Twitter & Facebook Accounts

Keep track of everything through the Olympics’ official social media channels…

2010 Vancouver Tweets	Check out the list I made on Twitter of official Olympic teams, committees, the media, and athletes! Includes over 130 (and growing!) Includes @2010tweets, @followtheflame, @code2010, @nbcolympics,
Olympics on Facebook	The official Facebook page of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter games!
Vancouver 2010 Cultural Olympiad on Facebook	From Jan. 22 to Mar. 21, the best artists from Canada and around world will be playing in Vancouver and Whistler, BC.
dreambig Vancouver 2010 on Facebook	Become a fan and show your support for Canada’s athletes! Get the latest updates on how our athletes are doing.

Olympic Sized Souvenirs:

FREE Vancouver 2010 Journal: Worth $17.99, get yours FREE by signing up for your 160-page personalized journal to include photos, prompt Games memories, blank journal pages, and record your thoughts and experiences!

Mobile Freebies & Alerts

Mobile	Text OLYMPICS to 51515 for latest news and much more!
Official Mobile Game	Be the ultimate winner in this sports challenge with 5 different events, play alone or with friends!
NBC’s iPhone App & Blackberry App	Coming soon! Check back for your FREE download and you’ll be able to check Olympic news, results, videos, and more!
Alerts	Sign up for alerts to your phone AND/OR email.
Mobile Video Highlights	Watch, get highlights, and other features on your cell phone! AT&T: 1. Select CV on your Phone’s main menu 2. Select Sports 3. Select NBC Sports 4. Select NBC Olympics Verizon: 1. Select GET IT NOW from the main menu 2. Select Pictures & Videos 3. Select V CAST Videos 4. Select Sports 5. Select NBC Sports 6. Select NBC Olympics Sprint: 1. Go to Entertainment 2. Select TV 3. Select Sprint TV 4. Select NBC Sports 5. Select NBC Olympics

Official Video Game of the 2010 Olympics:

Check out information by click on the link above OR pre-order the games on Amazon or at Game Stop! Even if you’re not a world-class athlete you can train your mind to be…


Amazon	Game Stop

***Also check out Mario and Sonic on for Wii and Nintendo DS!

Olympic Travel Information:

Check out the official 2010 Olympics Spectator Guide which includes link to the different venues, ceremonies, transportation, accommodations, and other essential information.
The US Department of State Travel includes information about passport travelling, games fact sheet, country specific information, customs information, and the 2010 US Olympic team.
Not going by train or plane? Check out this website for RV information: Vancouver 2010 RV Park

Colt McCoy’s Post 2010 BCS Game Interview

Posted on January 8, 2010 by *Geekette*

I did a rough, quick transcription of Colt McCoy’s class-act game interview after the 2010 BCS National Championship – full of strength and faith!

I love this game, I have a passion for this game, I’ve done everything I can to contribute to my team and we made it this far and it’s unfortunate that I didn’t get to play. I would have given everything I had to be out there with my team. Congratulations to Alabama, I love the way our team fought…Garrett Gilbert played as well as he could play, he did a tremendous job. I always give God the glory, I’d never question why things happen the way they do. God is in control of my life and if nothing else I know I’m standing on The Rock.

…You know I really have no pain in my arm, I just can’t feel my arm. It wasn’t a painful hit, I’ve taken that hit over and over again in my life…playing this game I know I’m going to get hit…like I said, I’m not in pain, my arm’s dead. It feels like I slept on my arm, woke up and my arm’s dead.

I thought this was so great and I looked for it immediately after the game…here for anyone who’s been dealt a rough hand…may you handle it with the graciousness that he did.

2010 Citi BCS National Championship

Posted on January 7, 2010 by *Geekette*

Citi BCS National Championship on January 7^th, 2010 is here!

Listen to BCS Championship LIVE here!

ESPN includes:

LIVE Virtual Press Box here
LIVE Fan Conversations here
Videos
UT Bowl History
Game Preview
Box Score
Play-by-Play
2010 National Championship Real-time Game Cast
Texas Longhorns Page on ESPN

Texas Exes Fan:

Follow @Texasexes tweets
Become a Facebook Fan of their Texas Exes app

Twitter:

http://twitter.com/Mark_Schlabach
http://twitter.com/Ivan_Maisel
Pat Forde on Twitter: http://twitter.com/espn4d
#longhorns
“Colt McCoy”
#BCS

The German Christmas Pickle

Posted on December 23, 2009 by *Geekette*

Starting who knows when, by who knows who (the facts have been lost over the years…3 variations of the story can be found here), the Christmas pickle is a beloved Germany tradition that my family has celebrated each year during the holidays. As the last ornament to ordain the tree, the parents hide the glass decoration in the shape of a green, whole pickle on Christmas Eve. Once given the go-ahead, the children search the tree for the hidden pickle…whichever child finds the lucky pickle receives an extra gift to open!

Start this Christmas tradition in your family! Buy one from Amazon today! Its a fun annual tradition AND a fun story to tell.

Band	Twitter	Facebook
	@thefray	http://www.facebook.com/TheFray
	@BoysLikeGirls	http://www.facebook.com/boyslikegirls
	@blueoctoberband	http://www.facebook.com/blueoctober
	@jasonderulo	http://www.facebook.com/jasonderulo
	@DOWNWITHWEBSTER	http://www.facebook.com/downwithwebster
	@jaysean	http://www.facebook.com/jaysean
	@owlcity	http://www.facebook.com/owlcity
	@3OH3	http://www.facebook.com/3oh3music

Earth Day Climate Rally | Washington, DC

How Green are You?!

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EAP)

NCAA Women’s Final Four

Tickets

Events

Social Media

Directions to the Alamo Dome

Conference Social Media

Rates & Travel

Fun Pass vs. Season Pass

SeaWorld Promotional Offers

Pass Member Advantages:

Grounds Hours & Admission Prices:

Carnival Hours

Stock Show & Rodeo Family Fair

Helping Others

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Deals

Rodeo Feast!

Fan Appreciation Night!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Dollar Days!

Free USAA Military Fridays!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Text Alerts!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo iPhone App in iTunes!

Dollar Admission: President’s Day – Feb. 15, 2010!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Senior Day!

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Entertainment

!

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Stock Show and Rodeo

<Perfect Valentine’s Day>

</Perfect Valentine’s Day>

Restaurants & Food

Party Supplies

Super Sales

Colt McCoy’s Interview w/ Max Lucado:

Website: http://xccinc.com/

Meeting the 2010 Olympic Mascots

Mascot

Meaning Behind Choice

Online 2010 Olympic Games & Activities for Kids

Game

Details

Paralympic Games

Educational Resources

Topic

Details

The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics are here!

Official Website: Vancouver2010.com

Official Broadcaster: NBC Olympics

2010 Olympic Torch Relay:

Official Twitter & Facebook Accounts

Olympic Sized Souvenirs:

Mobile Freebies & Alerts

Official Video Game of the 2010 Olympics:

Olympic Travel Information:

Citi BCS National Championship on January 7th, 2010 is here!

Listen to BCS Championship LIVE here!

UPDATED (12/15/2009): Parking Information

Citi BCS National Championship on January 7^th, 2010 is here!