Happy Wheels

So, last night, I was messing round on the Internet (ya know, Chrome Games, Computer Games, Research,) and I found this one game called Happy Wheels. I was really curious, hearing from my friends that it was a awesomesauce game. (awesomesauce is a way of saying that it is very cool) So I downloaded it.In less than 15 minutes I was addicted. The only time I would stop is to either take a bathroom break or to eat. I recommend this game to anyone who has a really good, solid, computer but does not have anything but work to do on it. This game is also a great time-passer. 1 hour will go by like 15 minutes.

I kind of ad libed here, but here is a pros and cons list:

         Pros:                                                              

  • very addicting
  • great soundtrack
  • educational (on what not to do)
  • fun
  • gives you second chances
  • has easy and hard levels

 

Cons:

  • bloody
  • rated 10+
  • educational (on what not to do)
  • very addicting
  • gory
  • has very little mercy

Now, I made this blog to share a game that I like personally. Please do not take it like I’m comparing, oh, I don’t know, Team Fortress 2 to Happy Wheels.This is my opinion and my recommendation , not my comparison.

To top it all off, here is a picture of the title screen.happy-wheels-09-700x388

Getting older, Feeling younger? You are not Alone

Deny the grey hair and ignore the growing children. Are you old enough to be old. How old are you feeling. It is a universal feeling that people do not feel as old as they really are. Men tend to push-up old age until 60s while women may feel old as soon as they see the grey hair. Anyhow,
You are not alone in the ‘growing old – feeling young’ phenomenon. The whole world is with you!

As per the saying, ‘you are as old as you feel’, there is no limit on when you actually decide to be old. While the age may catch up and delay your physical abilities and features, your heart may feel ten to fifteen years younger. Or you may be stuck up in the twenties as well.

Well, according to the people around you and per the social rules, you are expected to behave according to your age. That is very well true. But how far can you pretend to be like that
when you are not actually feeling that way. Your actions and talking may reflect your wisdom and experience but it is possible you have never realized that you came so far.

For some people it is also possible to feel ten years older at times and fifteen years younger at times. Further, when you compare the people born in the same year, you may be shocked to see how old they look! Perhaps, you also will realize some day that you have grown up at last.

You may also deny that many people have passed away in the recent years and the young ones born are already going to school. In the immediate family, you may have so many additions and losses without realizing how far you have come. People may look at you as a role model or an example in their lives, but you don’t feel that old yet.

The feeling is common particularly around holidays and special occasions such as .. Hmm, The birthdays. Your child might be bewildered at how old are you and how out dated you are, you keep denying the fact. That’s quite common as well. Sometimes, you might also wonder when did science and technology become so advanced that you are taken aback by it.

It is also important to have a purpose and a job to keep you occupied. Further, do not stop enjoying the life and appreciating the blessings in your life. Some volunteering and some spiritualism also may help in the moral satisfaction part.

Okay, so all the young people out there, don’t worry about the age. Keep doing what you want to and what you are supposed to and the age won’t bother you. Stay young at heart and stay happy. Don’t forget the healthy diet and frequent exercise which can really keep you young. You will catch up someday. 🙂

Is early marriage the only solution

Recently, the Chief Minisiter of Haryana in India made a statement early marriage of girls is the solution to avoid rapes. As if molestation and abuse of women would stop with just marrying. Rapes and abuse of women go unnoticed and unsolved though it is a major security issue to the society itself. The developed nations with strict laws and advaced law enforcements also are facing this emabarassing issue.

Women have been playing the equal in the world starting from the evolution of human beings. They have been taking up multi tasks such as the unique task of child bearing, raising good citizens, taking care of the family members, educationg self and society. Modern women have been exploring careers in every field and there has been no limit for their achievements. But, in every field women are so vulenerable due to thier natural shyness and soft nature.

World has seen many women leaders and exemplary behaviors. But, I’m sure all those women too must have faced some discrimination due to their gender. Families and soceity do recognise the importance of the girl’s role in the growth. They are willing to educate the girl child and let them explore their dreams. Governments are providing 30 percent reservation for women in all fields. But, are we educationg them enough to handle the pressures of exploitation and abuse.

Families and governments should encourage the victims of rape and abuse to come forward and report. It is unjust that the culprit roams away freely and the victim has to suffer the abuse throughout the life. There must be strict enforcements and punishments in the society for such offenders. To be able to get away from the offense will help the rapisits to commit more crimes and torture more women.

Awareness of abuse has increased in the society. School children are being encouraged to stand up and talk about the abuse and report to the elders and school authorities. Various graphical demonstrations and  methods of abuse are shown to children to let them know what exactly is getting abused mean. But, the children are being helpless in the cases where immediate family members themselves are abusing the children. In those cases, to avoid embarassment even the reported cases are going unpunished due to societal pressures.

Just marrying at an early age will not solve the problem. What if the attacks continue after the marriage. How badly the society is changed that they gang rape a woman and spread the video of it on the internet. We all should be ashamed of such people. Why we are letting them get away is a constant burning question. The basic mindset of the society and men has to be changed through awareness programs and law enforcement. To respect women and treat them with proper etiquette and having the fear of getting punished is a must for all men.

Sometimes, I wonder why are we turning in to animals after all this development and scientific advancements. Where is the basic control of the mind and why is it okay to do whatever we want. We have been given freedom to pursue our dreams and make our fortune but are we allowed to mistreat others?

iPhone 5

There is a new Apple iPhone 5 announced yesterday. Again, new features, sleek design, retina display, 4G, but missing the favorite youtube. The Siri had learnt a lot in this version and the Apple phone charger is dual sided. One more gadget to be lying around the house, huh.

Aplpe released the thinnest and lightest iPhone 5. Here are some highlights:

  1. The latest phone comes with iOS 6 to allow fastest downloads.
  2. The 8 mega pixel camera has been improved and is thinner than the 4S camera.
  3. The thin connector is dual sided and can be connected to other accessories using an adapter.
  4. The 4inch retina display is taller and allows you to type easily.
  5. Siri learnt new languages and general information about sports and restaurants.
  6. The new audio is sharp with reduced noise.
  7. Facebook integration allows to post directly from the notification center.
  8. The A6 chip allows faster data transfer and graphics performance.
  9. The inbuilt LTE wireless technology allows faster downloads and connectivity.
  10. Enhanced earpods with beamforming sounds.

So, you a have a new reason to buy the new phone. Apple had released one. You may wonderwhat to do with the old phones lying around the house and when the next one will be released. You can donate, exchange, gift, sell, or use them as additional browsers and cameras.

Missing youtube from the iPhone is a shock to the users but lets see how far the iPhone 5 will connect to the world. 🙂

Family NIght at Figge Art Museum

This Saturday, the fifteenth of September Figge Art Museum is hosting a free family day. The special exhibits include the Exploring NASA and Blast off events. The timings are from 11 am to 2pm.

Figge Art Museum is hosting a family event on this Saturday, for which there is no admission fees. The special programs include Star Lab, Astronomy talks, fun activites for kids, and so on. Visit the studios from 11 am to 2pm for a family fun. Local sponsors such as John Deere are sponsoring this free event.

The Figge is also part of the East West River Fest and has art galleries in european, Afreican-American, American, and ancient art. There additional collections include Asian and Mexican Colonial arts. It is a good opportunity to visit the Figge Art museum during the NASA days.

Choosing the First Instrument

The most crucial decision for a parent is to chose an instrument for their kid. Whether to take up band or orchestra, or which instrument would be appropriate for the child is a main concern. It is suggested that the child and the teacher decide as they would be the experts and people involved.

Instrument

If your child has musical talent and wants to pursue an instrument, it is better to continue. Encouraging children in their interested areas would motivate them and enhance their confidence. Music and art are mostly perceived as extras and not given that importance in most families and schools. However, music and art will indeed boost their confidence and in turn enhance the academic and atheltic skills of students.

Here are the key areas to be considered while choosing the instrument:

  1. Height of the child
  2. Length of the fingers
  3. Capability to blow air
  4. Interested instrument
  5. Teacher’s suggestions
  6. Weight of the instrument
  7. Manageability of the instrument
  8. Cost of the instrument
  9. Renting options available
  10. Accessories required

After choosing the instrument, daily practice is required. Maintaining a calendar and sticking to it would be a good rule. Taking care of the instrument and handling it properly are also necessary. Encouraging children while enforcing the practice sessions is better for continuity. Have fun with the instruments and upcoming musicians. 🙂

Road Trip to South Dakota and Wyoming

Travel enlightens us or may bring up our inner talents. So, we decided to set on a summer trip to South Dakota and Wyoming. Though the popular attractions were Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota and Yellowstone in Wyoming, the other attractions along are also great. The entire trip was relaxing with many new experiences and awesome sceneries. Attractions apart just driving and spending time with family is rejuvenating. Here is a typical itinerary.

Planning

One may need ten to twelve days in all to visit both the states, though it could be completed in eight. It is suggested to set a limit of 500 miles per day and drive accordingly. The basic rule of the road trip would be take rest for every three to four hours and fill up the gas once the tank is half. Taking home food reduces cost and time for the breaks. Preparing and planning advance meals may be a good idea. Many instant foods and microwaveable dishes can be easily prepared within minutes. Carrying drinks, milk, curd, and other perishable items in coolers is a good idea. Hotels are available throughout the I90 and I80. It is better to pick up a walk in coupon rate and book it in advance. If you are a member of a chain of hotels you can accumulate points by booking through them. Ofcourse, you need a good camera to capture the wonders and smiles.

Travel

The travel may be sorted day wise or attraction wise.

Day 1: Drive eight hours to Mitchell, SD. Stop at Sioux Falls, SD to visit the famous falls where the Sioux river takes multiple falls in that area. The falls are not that big but is a good stop. You can stop by the sculpure garden at Montrose to view the giant bronze sculptures in the Porter Sculpture Park. Take a night rest at Mitchell and visit the world’s only corn palace. It is a free attraction open to general public. Corn palace is decorated with over 19 different colors of corn grown in and around the area. It was built to encourage people to come and settle down in South Dakota and that there is a possibility for agriculture.

Every year a different theme for the palace is submitted and selected by the local people. The theme for 2012 was ‘Youth Activities’ showcasing different sports. The annual corn festival also hosts different music and food events. There is a free video show that may be education for all of us. The entire visit to the corn palace takes two to three hours. The surrounding buildings may be visited if you have enough time.

Day 2: Drive about four hours to the Badlands National Park. The stop at Chamberlain, SD where you cross the Missouri river will give a good view of the area. In the drive so far, you may have seen green plains, corn fields, and windmills. But, once you cross the Missouri river, the view is completely different. The giant mountains are so overwhelming and may seem to consume you. 🙂 Be prepared to see the cattle also. You may stop at the 1880s town to see the original buildings restored from 1880s. The museum can be visited for the artifacts of the ancient times.

Badlands National Park is a part of the national parks. The entry fee is $35. The badlands are formed millions of years ago and the Lakota people called the area as ‘bad land’ because it was having no water and no food. The Badlands is formed when sedimentary rocks are eroded over a period of time. The entire drive through the Badlands will take three to four hours. Attend a ranger led program at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center or take a trail in the Badlands or spend a sunrise or sunset. You will be ‘Wow’ed by the area and the hidden landform. There is an active Indian reservation at that area. Camping is allowed at the Badlands at a minimum fees.

When you exit the Badlands make sure you visit the famous Wall Drug store in Wall. The place is famous for the free water early business men offered to encourage visitors. Currently, there is a shopping complex with food and water.

After the Wall Drug, you have two options to stay. If you are a city person, you can drive to Rapid city. Rapid city has good attractions such as the museums and dinosaur park. Its vicinity to airport and Indian restaurants make it a famous stopover. If you are a country person you can stay at the Custer State Park cabins. Custer State park is home for the granite peaks, scenic drives, and wildlife.

Day 3: Explore the Custer State Park and its wildlife. Greet the bisones, zebras, deers, prong horn sheep, and many birds in the park. Do not feed the animals but let the donkey lick your car begging for food. :)Visit the lakes in the area such as the Sylvan lake. You may take up paddle boating or soak up yourself in the mountain lakes. Attend a ranger led program for enhancing the experience. Get acquainted with the wild life and nature in the area and have a peaceful stay. Visit Custer city for other ancient attractions.

Day 4: Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest mountain carving under construction. It is in honor of the North American Indians. Crazy Horse was a Lakota tribe leader who was killed by the whites. The Lakota tribe has decided to construct a memorial in their land. The construction begain in 1948 by renowned sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski.  Attend the video presentation and visit the galleries and museum. The mini bronze model and the white marble model are a must visit.

Day 5: Visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in the black hills which is a famous mountain sculpture created by Gutzon Borglum to honor the four Presidents of the United States. The faces of George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, and Thomas Jefferson were carved in the mountains. The wall inscriptions of the different states is a good photo spot. Also, stop before reaching the monument at the Granite point to take a picture of just George Washington in the Needles Highway. It took fourteen years to build it and was named after Charles Rushmore, the business man to visit the place. The memorial has a President’s trail and a museum with the working models.

Visit the President’s wax museum and other centers in Keystone. The famous 1880 train and Alpine slide at the bottom of the hill is fun for the kids.

Day 6: You can visit Hot Springs south of the Custer State Park for the water park and the beach. You can also visit the Devils Tower National Monument on the I90. The drive to Wyoming in the Rocky Mountain range will take you through the prairies, grasslands, and wildlife. The Thunder Basin National Grassland is home to to different wildlife. You will also encounter hundreds of oil rigs along the highway. The Black Thunder thermal coal mine offers free trips throughout the year but you may need an appointment.  The drive through Casper will take to the highest elevations and through different kinds of mountains and rock formations. Dubois or Riverton will be the next best stop closest to the Grand Teton National Park.

Day 7: Stay at Jackson or camp at the national parks for a different experience. Visit the Grand Teton National Park and the visitor centers. There are many ranger led programs which can give us some information about the place. The Grand Tetons is the  mountain range formed thousands of years ago. Just looking at the mountains and standing there will engulf you in the natural beauty. Take a hike to the Inspiration point at an elevation of 7500 feet and 6.5 miles one way from the park. Do see the Hidden Falls along the way. Take a bear spray with you or keep singing songs to keep the bears away while you are hiking. 🙂 Wildlife viewing along the highway and in the mountains is a good opportunity. The view of the Jackson river from atop the mountains is breathtaking. Capture the mountains during different times of the day and get wowed by the nature.

Day 8: Drive to the Yellowstone National Park which is a home for the active volcano. It has over 500 of the world’s 900 geysers. The bubbling hot springs, evaporating sulfur, reoccurring geysers, bubbling mud volcanoes, and thousands of wildlife make the place most valuable in all seasons. Drive the inner loop along the different visitor centers and geysers.

Hike the trails around the geysers in the geyser basin to get a better idea. The Old Faithful is a reoccurring geyser and shoots hot water up to 150 feet for every one hour. Watch the Old Faithful erupt and predict the next time based on the long, short, or medium duration of the eruption. Take a dip in the hot springs or fish in the Fisherrman’s village. Explore the wildlife during the dusk when they are pretty active. The upper falls and lower falls of the Yellowstone river are a great visit in the grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Take your time in the park and enjoy the nature. If you are lucky, you may encounter a grizzly bear or a black bear. 🙂 There is also a chance of a coyote or fox!

Day 9: Visit the Jackson Hole village and take the cabin ride to the top of the Mt. Rendezvous at an elevation of 10, 000 feet. Whitewater rafting on the Snake river is a good activity if you have enough time. Horseback riding in the mountains is also a good activity. Once you are done with the activities, you can start driving back home. The nearest stop down the mountains is Rock Springs. Encounter the cowboys and cowgirls during your stay in Wyoming. You can see many horses and ranches along the roads for a good picture opportunity.

Day 10: Drive back home is long but gives you a completed and successful feeling for having visited and completed all the planned attractions. You may stop at Cheyenne in Wyoming. You can visit the museums or zoos in the areas. You can continue your drive to Colorado Springs for more mountains or head back home for the plains. 🙂 The next stop options would be North Palatte or Kearney in Nebraska.

Day 11: Drive back home safely. You may stop at Omaha Nebraska for good food or Des Moines for the water activities. Iowa city also has good restaurants. The drive through Nebraska takes us through the plains and plenty of cattle.  Modify your trip according to the drive time or time spent at the attractions. Minor adjustments may require depending on the weather.

Overall, the trip to South Dakota and Wyoming would be refreshing to see the pure mountains and lakes. Pick up a hotel with free wi-fi so that you can upload your day pictures to share with your friends. Enjoy your trip and let me know if you have any additional tips. 🙂

 

Race for the Cure

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure was founded by Nancy G. Brinker in 1982 to spread the breast cancer awareness in the world. Today, the group is the largest in the world to support breast cancer movement. Special races are held worldwide to raise funds and support the patients. You can participate in the races or donate the non-profit organization to support their cause.

Initially, only women were allowed to participate in the races. Later, men, children, families, and organisations joined the races. The Susan G. Komen for the Cure conducts special races which include:

  1. Race for the Cure
  2. Rally for the Cure
  3. Bowl for the Cure
  4. Cook for the Cure
  5. 3 Day Walk for the Cure
  6. Ride for the Cure

You can see thousands of people participating in the races. Some of them are fighting breast cancer, some have lost families due to the disease, some are honoring their acquaintances, while some are just having fun in the sun by walking. A festive environment can be found at the races with dances, freebies, DJ’s, live music shows, and performances before and after the races.

The entry for the race costs from $25 and you can contribute more by additional donations. Participating in the race is a special excitement for the people as it gives a sense of satisfaction to having done something for the cause. The winners get a prize of course. But, everybody is a winner for having getting outside and participating in the race.

Numerous information centers are set up during the race so that people can get to know about the check ups and tests to be done. Information is given on what to do and whom to approach in case of any symptoms of breast cancer. Contact the Quad city Affiliates if you want to participate in the race. There may be no cure as of now for the disease but the fighting spirit prevails.

 

Dispatch Argus

The largest selling newspaper in the quad cities with the most accurate information is the Quad cities Dispatch Argus. The paper costs less than a dollar a day but is the only source for exclusive news in sports, politics, entertainment, arts, weather, and so on. Dispatch covers local, national, and international news in the area bringing up to date news. The coupons which drop by every other day along with the paper are the most precious.

Dispatch Argus

The Dispatch and the Rock Island Argus are the local newspapers found in 1878 and 1853 respectively. They serve the local areas with both the papers carrying the same news except modifyng the cover page to suit the individual areas. They both were acquired by the Small Newspaper Group in 1986. The news can also be accessed at their website qconline.com.

Dispatch covers local news and all the articles are well researched, written and edited. Pictures accompany some articles to give more details. The different sections of the paper which appear on special days include:

  1. Cover page
  2. Sports
  3. Arts
  4. Faith
  5. Home
  6. Automobile
  7. World
  8. Comics
  9. Teen
  10. Obituaries
  11. Events
  12. Entertainment
  13. Movie Reviews
  14. Crime reports
  15. Politics
  16. Jobs
  17. Finance
  18. Weather
  19. Honor rolls
  20. Education

Local people including friends and families are featured in the newspaper for their special achievements. Special happenings such as births, marriages, engagements, divorces, and deaths are published in the paper to spread the word easily. On request, Dispatch publishes free obituaries up to 25 lines to honor the local residents who passed away. The local crimes and other follow ups can be tracked through the paper. Families and teenagers can write to the paper to ask a specific question they are facing and can get expert suggestions while being anonymous.

Dispatch Argus supports local students by publishing their essays, achievements, scholarships,  and the Regional Annual Spelling Bee. Photo contests are held occasionally and local residents are encouraged to send in the pictures. Frequent job positions in the paper include journalists, writers, editors, home delivery, and so on. 

Dispatch provides exclusive coupons apart from special news. Local stores provide deals and discounts through the newspaper and can be used during the valid period. Dispatch provides great news in simple language for people of all ages. Children are encouraged to read the newspaper to improve the awareness of the world around them and also their reading and comprehension. You can also sponsor the newspaper for a day to a local school through their special partnership program.

To subscribe to the Dispatch Argus, call 309 797 0345 or 800 660 2472. You can also visit their website to check out the different delivery options.

Saris at Sears

Yes, ladies. Sears is selling saris on its website. So, now ladies can purchase the exquisite Indian saris at their own pace instead of rushing to major cities!

Sears is a major supplier of appliances, electronics, kitchen, jewelry, and clothing. They are catering to the needs of large Indian community by selling saris. You can find a wide variety of Silk, Georgette, Crape saris in luxury, printed, and casual models. Saris do come with blouse piece so that you don’t have to buy another one.

Some saris are marketplace items that is they are sold by a third party through Sears. The price range of the saris is between $25 to $200 or more. Check with your local store for site to store pickup. Extra shipping charge is applicable on some items.

Sears is expecting a 20% increase in sales through saris. The flexible return policy makes the purchases easier as the customer can return the item if they are not satisfied with the material of the sari. It is a welcoming change and a lot more encouraging for even  more shopping! 🙂

International Women’s Day 2012

World is celebrating the 101 st International Women’s Day on March 8 with seminars and events everywhere. Women have emerged as a global power fighting for their rights and demanding equal status in the society. Women bring a lot of difference in daily lives as well in global developments. The female is needed every where but has been limited most of the time.

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 since 1911. Global events and seminars mark the celebration of women and their success. Women have been encouraged to vote, lead, manage, and negotiate in political, business, health, education, sports, military, and family among other areas. Special privileges and reservations have been given to women for bringing up the status of the girl power.

China, Nepal, Cuba, Russia are some of the countries which declare March 8 as a national  holiday. While in some countries such as China only women get a national holiday on March 8, some other countries such as Bulgaria celebrate Women’s day as Mother’s day.

Women presidents, Prime ministers, Home ministers, and other representatives bring empathy and leadership in the politics. In corporate sectors, women are largely encouraged to take up high positions as they bring a great deal of patience often required for these jobs. Education for girls and employment for women has been a common agenda for most of the nations. Parents consider girl as a crucial asset for the family and respect women in the family to a a great extent.

Women networks in workplace a common for many multinational companies to address women issues and encourage women. Support groups have been established to bring awareness among women about right and wrong and other abuse aspects. Women courts have been providing special legal and family justice for women in many parts of the world.

Areas of Improvement

However, women in some countries such as Saudi Arabia cannot drive or cannot travel alone, while in USA women do not have a right to have an abortion. Some countries such as Afghanistan are rated as most dangerous place for women. Rapes, abduction, abuse, discrimination, and murder of women is still a common phenomenon. Women safety is a prime concern for most countries. Lack of  basic food, shelter, and clothing is still prevalent in most parts of the world.

Women organisations have been helping women for their growth. Women must get education and be independent by getting a job. Fighting for the rights and demanding justice and respect must be a women’s responsibility. A woman should respect herself and gain confidence in self to shine in the world. Putting others first and letting self down is not a solution and the right example in all cases. Communication and networking skills are a must for a successful career. Personal safety and awareness of surroundings is the necessity of the modern world.

Finally, respecting other women, spreading love, and appreciating womanhood also give a positive approach to the daily situations. Do respect women in your family, workplace, and in your community to celebrate the International Women’s Day.

Happy Valentine’s Day

Do something special for your partner this Valentine’s day to make it a memorable one.  Expression of love is playing a major part in the busy lives and hectic schedules. The cost of the gift may not quantify your love but sure makes an impression. Sometimes a small gesture or a thoughtful appreciation leads to magical results.

Valentine’s day is celebrated worldwide to express love though its origins are unknown. It is the right time to show the bottled love and affection which may yield more in turn. The day marks the celebration of love with exchange of flowers, chocolates, and gifts.

The celebration of Valentine’s day has spread to schools where children are encouraged to share small valentines or cards. Some schools have class room parties and other crafts. Weddings and engagements are common on Valentine’s day or proposals might be on the rise. Special crafts, recipes, and personalized gifts are shared on Valentine’s day.

The anti-Valentine’s day brigade is also becoming popular by people who believe that all the expense is futile. Some think that the time and effort is wasted in unnecessary hype and artificial expression.

However, a universal celebration of love can be appreciated anytime of the year. 🙂

 

January Events

The first month of the year is packed with events which are getting pretty difficult to manage. With first snow (and storm), January is getting busier. Here are some of the events in the area.

  1. Bettendorf family museum is offering free evening admission on January 16th from 5pm to 8pm on Martin Luther King Jr.’s day. Enjoy the exhibits and explore nature wonders at the museum.
  2. Moline library is offering a range of free programs including Messy Monday on January 16th, Lego club on January 19th, and Contented canines on January 25th. Registration may be required for some programs. Check the timings before going.
  3. Rock Island Center for Math and Science is offering a free STEM program on January 24th 5pm to 7pm in coordination with IMSA. Children can do variety of science experiments and win prizes!
  4. iwireless center is hosting the World’s toughest rodeo show on January 27th and January 28th at 7.30 pm. Admission is from $18 to $35 and a special goody bag for $55 seat tickets.
  5. Rivercenter Davenport is hosting the Quad City Boat and Vacation show this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Special gifts for children visiting early on Sunday.
Visit the programs and be safe in the weather. 🙂

 

 

Bald Eagle Days

The national bird returns to the lands of Mississippi commencing the 25th annual bald eagle days. Over 2500 bald eagles return every year in search of food and shelter. QCCA Expo Center is hosting the annual bald eagle days show this Friday through Sunday. Watch the show for some live birds of prey and other animals from Niabi zoo apart from the bald eagle.

  1. QCCA Expo Center is hosting the annual bald eagle show this weekend. The center will host over 100 booths demonstrating animals from Niabi zoo, Pella wildlife, and birds of prey. The show is open from 4pm to 8pm on Friday,  8 am to 6.30 pm on Saturday, and 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. The event costs $5 for adults and $1 for children.
  2. Mississippi River Visitor Center is hosting the 42nd annual bald eagle show on weekends from January 14 to February 12 from 9.30 am to 11 am and 12.30 pm to 2pm. Call 309 794 5338 ahead for reservations as the group is limited for the clock tower tour.
  3. Clinton Bald Eagle Watch is this Saturday from live birds, wild life exhibits, activities for children, and door prizes. The event is free to public and may host a tour to the bald eagle watching time permitting.

If you cannot go to any of these events, drive by the Mississippi river Lock and dam #13 and #14 during afternoons for a better viewing and picture opportunities. 🙂

Happy New Year 2012

The New Year marks a universal celebration and brings hope in to many people worldwide. With 2011 being the year of disasters and protests, let’s hope 2012 to be a joyful year.

Happy New Year 2012

New year brings joy to everyone with people celebrating on the streets in all arts of the world. Despite the disasters and grievances, people have in deed celebrated new year with friends and family. The hope and passion keeps life running and leads in to new directions.

Revoking past resolutions or taking up new ones is a common trend. Health takes priority over financial prospects. Quitting some habits and taking up new ones is trending during the new year celebrations.

Many new laws come into effect in the new year in the United States. Illinois requires all passengers to be wearing seat belt regardless of age and position in the car. Many states have set up strict laws for immigrants and gay rights. Check your balances and future plans in the new year and set up less shopping targets. 🙂

Happy New Year 2012!

Putnam Museum – Fun in the Exhibits

Putnam museum is offering unique events and fun opportunities this holiday season. Visit Putnam this Thursday and Friday for a Pyjama party. Further, December 26th thru Dec 30, Putnam is hosting special events for all.

Putnam Museum

Putnam is a venue for different exhibits and shows for Quad city residents. They encourage fun and learning and is a great place for the IMAX movies.

Pyjama Party

Putnam is hosting the pyjama party this Thursday and Friday from 5pm to 10pm. Each ticket costs $10. Audience can watch Polar Express in 3D and get their flashlights ready for a total lights out experience.

Fun in the Exhibits

Putnam is arranging family friendly activities in the exhibit halls from Dec 26th to Dec 30 from 1pm to 3pm. The events are free with the museum admission $7.

  1. December 26th – Travel around the world on Map-it Monday
  2. December 27th – Explore the gadgets on Tech Tuesday
  3. December 28th – Encounter hands on science experiments on Weird Wednesday
  4. December 29th – Solve puzzles and numbers on Think tank Thursday
  5. December 30th – Visit live animals and birds on Friends of Nature Friday
Visit the museum during the special events to make most of the holidays. Get a free pass at the public library and have more fun. 🙂

TVDL Illinois

Temporary Visitor Drivers Licence (TVDL) is issued to legal residents in the United States who are not eligible for a Social Security Number. Until lately, there was no such provision but in 2005 Illinois started issuing TVDL to enable the residents drive.

International students and spouses of temporary international workers may apply for a TVDL as they are not eligible to work in the United States. They are legal residents but are ineligible for a Social Security number. In order to facilitate driving for these residents, a TVDL is issued.

Documents

Bloomington, Rockford, Springfield, Carbondale, and Chicago are the offices that issue a TVDL. They process TVDL only on certain days of the week. Take the following original documents to your nearest DMV office.

  1. No SSN letter from the Social Security Office issued within the last 90 days
  2. Passport with original I94
  3. Any mail with name and address within last 30 days
The documents will be verified using the online verification system. If there is any additional verification, a second visit maybe required.

Validity

An applicant must be having at least six months visa and one year valid stay while requesting a TVDL.  A TVDL is valid until three years or the visa expiry date whichever is sooner.

A TVDL can be extended after receiving the extension notice from the USCIS. The application may be sent for additional processing. The DMV will issue an invitation letter to revisit the DMV office to get the renewal.

Tests

First time applicants have to go through vision test, computer test, and driving test. Applicants renewing TVDL may have to go through vision test and other tests if required.

Once all the tests have been passed, a photograph is taken and the TVDL will be issued. It may be a shocking and tiring process but the pain is worth. The stringent rules by the Illinois DMV may seem ridiculous but at the end ensure the safety of the drivers.

 

Day After Thanksgiving

The day after Thanksgiving or Black Friday is popular for the shopping gobble that drives many shoppers into fuzziness. The mad rush to the door busters in the wee hours may or may not give a good deal to customers but sends the businesses from red to black.

This year businesses and retailers decided to offer sales on thanksgiving night itself. Stores opening at 9pm and 10pm kept shoppers running around for deals and bargains. Further, the stores planned their timings such that the shoppers could line up at the stores one after other.

Kmart and Walgreens opened stores on Thanksgiving itself. Walmart and Toys r us opened at 10 pm and 9 pm. Next, Best Buy, Kohls, and Target opened their stores at midnight. The deals and long queues made the shoppers spend night in these stores itself. Last, JCPenney, Sears, Gamestop and other retailers open at 4 am in the morning so that the shoppers could continue shopping. (phew…)

The shoppers were confused and got in to the trap and spent heavily on Black Friday. Some of the door busters on Electronics such as televisions and Xbox were good in deed. Toys and basic clothing were on sale for considerable difference. Many new board games and kitchen gadgets were on sale offering mail in rebates.  Price matching and comparing continued before and after door busters where shoppers could buy online.

Mostly customers end up buying beyond their shopping lists and Christmas shopping. People who were jobless or about to lose their jobs did not even refrain from shopping. The credit cards and some websites got down due to the sudden surge and could not operate.

Finally, shoppers end with huge debts and retailers in huge profits. The returns and exchanges were expected as customers want to get best out of the deals. No wonder the sales this year have surpassed last year’s. 🙂

John Deere Pavillion

The famous attraction in Moline has changed its layout to set up its ‘can do’ look. Visit John Deere Pavillion to see the sculpture made with 320,000 food cans!

John Deere Pavillion launched its latest tractor S690 by creating a sculpture of food cans. Around 320,000 food cans were used this morning. 10,000 bags of rice and pasta were used in addition to the cans. The sculpture weighs around 170 tons and is 80 feet wide and17 feet height.

An architecture firm from Chicago designed and supervised the sculpture. The colors of the cans were chosen and arranged in order to represent the natural colors.

The sculpture is free for public viewing until December 11. Later, the the food will be donated to Riverbend foodbank. It seems that this donated food can serve 150 families for an year! Further, there is a talk about Guiness world record. Let’s wait and see.

John Deere must be appreciated for all the support they offer to the community. 🙂

Annual Holiday Events

Do not miss the annual holiday parade, festival of trees, and lighting on the commons this weekend. Quad city is gearing up for the holiday season with the annual events. Before the Thanksgiving celebration and Black Friday shopping, it is time for the annual celebrations.

  1. Holiday Parade – The parade in Davenport will  feature local businesses and organizations with colorful platoons. Helium balloons, dance shows will entertain the local people in downtown Davenport at 11 am.
  2. Festival of Trees – Festival of trees will feature different Christmas trees decorated and fun events for all ages.
  3. Lighting on the Commons – The annual lighting on the commons at the John Deere Pavilion will feature festivities, wagon rides, cookies, hot chocolate, music, and of course fire works. The event is from 3.30 pm to 8pm and is free to general public.

As Thanksgiving approaches businesses are attracting shoppers with numerous discounts and coupons even before Black Friday. To avoid long queues most stores are offering online sales during the special timings.

The annual events in Quad cities will kickoff the holiday season despite the weakening economy. 🙂