22 January 2007

Random Things

Every once in a while, there are so many neat things to talk about that I just have to let you know about them all. Today is one of those days! So, enjoy!

It could be considered an age-old battle--Wanting your kids to make fantastic grades. However, they need motivation, and you can't offer them the moon. Well, some school systems are now taking that matter into their own hands by experimenting with an incentive to coax good grades out of students --By paying them up to 100 dollars for good performances on state achievement exams.

The third- through sixth-graders in the study receive 15 dollars for every score of "proficient" on a state exam and 20 dollars for better results -- so they can collect 100 dollars if they have high scores in all five subjects.

But they aren't giving cash...The money will come as gift certificates redeemable at a local pizza parlors and shopping centers.

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It could be your worst nightmare...not knowing what's in your kid's textbooks...and then, they ask you for help with their homework. Well, that quick dilemma, could soon play out on national television. Yes, national television, and this time, the kids rule!

Fox announced that it is making a new game show, "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" where adults will compete in a quiz based on questions from elementary school textbooks. The fun part is, actual elementary school students will be on hand as "experts" for the adults to consult with.

It will air sometime later this year, or maybe as early as spring.

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If you Talk on the phone...Fix your makeup...or sip a bit of Starbucks while you're driving...You're not alone. I read today that 81 percent of Americans do a lot more than drive when they're behind the wheel.

Most talk on the phone...followed by eating, fixing hair, and putting on makeup. Then, sending text messages, checking email, and even shaving. I had never really thought of doing that...but then it even goes down another road where drivers also admitted to changing seats with passengers, painting their toenails, and putting in contact lenses while driving.

No wonder we say we "live in our cars." :)

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Have a great day!
CH

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