Civil litigation, or legal disputes, have become a commonality in our society. The evening news reports on class action lawsuits filed on behalf of dissatisfied or begrudged consumers. Hollywood has inundated the networks with countless legal dramas that focus on greedy lawyers who are less interested in justice for their clients and more concerned with counting their millions. This portrayal of the civil legal process can be disheartening and distancing. The truth is though that thousands of cases are heard every year that involve ordinary citizens trying to maneuver their way through the judicial system.
Civil litigation covers a wide array of circumstances. Examples include: personal injury, landlord/tenant disputes, worker’s compensation, medical malpractice and real estate transactions. The topics are complicated and it is important to have representation that is competent. There are many legal services available to citizens all over the country that can provide knowledgeable legal representation such as The Legal Service Network in the New Jersey area.
Services like the Legal Service Network - New Jersey have experienced attorneys and legal professionals that can answer your questions and provide guidance during the civil litigation process. Many times these services have a brief overview of what they can help you with depending upon your case. For instance, you can go to the Legal Service Network - New Jersey website and the types of cases that they handle are listed on their website and an overview of that particular situation is explained.
Of course, one should never take words on a website as legal advice. You should always contact someone directly with the service so that your personal situation can be fully evaluated. Most services should have a contact page where you will find the phone numbers or, as with the Legal Service Network, an email form that you can submit indicating your name, a contact number and a summary of what you are looking for. This will ensure that your experience with the judicial system is accurate and swift.
If you live in the central New Jersey area the Legal Service Network can provide you with many answers to your questions. They may also be able to refer you elsewhere if you are not within their representation area. No matter what, never attempt to solve a legal matter on your own. Always seek legal representation.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Saturday, January 26, 2008
The Best Hotel Chains for Your Family Vacation
I will be the first to confess that I am no Samantha Brown, host of several, widely-popular Travel Channel shows including, Passport to Europe and Passport to Latin America. I do not have a passport littered with stamps showcasing my many travels to exotic locations. Actually, I do not even own a passport. However, I do consider myself well-traveled within the borders of these 50 states and I have come to know a little about hotels along the way.
My family and I take a major vacation at least once a year. Sometimes, we even throw in a bonus trip if our budget and our schedules allow. Since my husband is a cautious flyer (to put it mildly), our trips consist of long, weary drives (my description – my husband would describe these drives as scenic and relaxing) that usually include stops at various hotels along the way. Unfortunately, we are not independently wealthy or lottery winners so it is crucial that we find budget-friendly accommodations that are pleasing to the whole family.
First, let me preface this list by saying that I am a “hotel snob.” I am picky. I am obsessive. I want the Ritz, but cannot afford that luxury. I spend hours searching online when making reservations trying to read between the pictures and figuring out which hotels are really as clean as they say and which ones are lying. FYI- most lie. But since this is an article about the best hotel chains, I have found some that stay consistent in their cleanliness, price and service.
Best Western
My first experience with the Best Western chain was about 7 years ago when my family and I went to Disney World. We were trying to be cheap, but still have a great experience. We found this Best Western through one of the discount, online travel sites like Priceline or Expedia. I wish I could remember the exact name and location of this Best Western property, but what I do remember is that we paid about $54 per night for a studio suite that included a king size bed, a living area, a breakfast area (fully stocked with microwave, sink, stove, dishwasher, dishes and utensils), a full bath, phone and cable TV. We were about 20 minutes from all the Disney attractions and there were never any complaints from me.
One hit wonder? Not at all. Just recently, we stayed at the Best Western St. Louis Inn. Same experience, the lobby was clean and nicely decorated. The pool area was well-maintained. No cloudy water from too much or too little chlorine. The breakfast area was spotless and food was more than what you would expect from the traditional, free continental breakfast – there was sausage, eggs, waffles, muffins, gravy – I could go on, but you get the point. The room? The room was very sanitary. The carpet actually looked like it had been swept and there were no soap stains in the bathtub or sink (another indication that cleaning had taken place). The price for this hotel was just $79 per night - perfect for a family traveling together.
Claim to fame: a decent, hot breakfast that is far from the traditional continental fare.
Country Inn and Suites by Carlson
I fell in love with this chain the first time I ever stayed in one in Northern Georgia. This was a spur of the moment stop and I didn’t have the opportunity to do my obsessive research. But I knew right away when I saw this property that I was going to be made to feel at home.
The porch is the trademark of this chain and is inviting with rocking chairs perfectly placed. When you walk in, the lobby is cute and country-charming with comfy furniture arranged around a beautiful fireplace, perfect for reading a newspaper or enjoying a book from the lending library. Lending library?
This feature is what I find so wonderful about this chain. Country Inn and Suites has a Read It and Return Lending Library in over 400 of its USA and Canadian locations. Guests, whether you are an adult or a child, can pick a book from the bookshelf in the lobby and read it either during your stay or on your way home – free of charge! The incentive to read the book and return it is that for every book that is returned, a donation is made to a literacy program. The books vary by location, but you are certain to find something that you will enjoy. To further enhance one’s love of literature, there is a promotion going on now that gives you a $15 Borders gift card when you book a minimum 2 night stay. You can go to the website for the exact details.
The atmosphere of Country Inn and Suites by Carlson is not pricey at all. You can have a great stay for a low price – usually around $89.
Claim to Fame: This chain knows the importance of literacy.
Fairfield Inn by Marriot
I stumbled upon the Fairfield Inn by Marriot many years ago when I visited San Antonio, Texas. I was recovering from a horrible overnight stay at a different hotel chain (leaky air conditioner, dangerous neighborhood and a nasty hair-filled tub) and was in desperate need for a quick fix. The Fairfield Inn & Suites San Antonio Downtown/Market Square was a breath of fresh air. The rooms were maintained (no leaky air conditioner), the property was polished and ready to offer the best amenities for a budget-hotel, free hi-speed internet and parking. Since that stay, if I am ever in a jam for a property, I turn to a Fairfield Inn. I have stayed at properties in Chicago, Florida and Georgia and have never been disappointed.
The prices have varied at each location, but you can usually find accommodations between $89 and $149 per night.
Claim to Fame: Free Wireless High Speed Internet & free parking
A Final Suggestion
When you are searching for a hotel that will fit your family’s budget and vacationing needs, I have one more tip – be cautious and do your research. All of the chains that I highlighted today have never let me down and I have had good experiences with all of them, but that doesn’t mean that conditions are not able to change.
Chains are what they are – franchised properties that have different management at each location. Take advantage of user reviews and read what that particular guest liked or didn’t like about the hotel. Use their reviews based on what you find most appealing in a property (price, convenience, type of rooms, etc.).
Also, know the difference between a budget hotel and a cheap hotel. Budget hotels offer competitive pricing (starting around $79 per night) that offer amenities like free breakfast, free parking, outdoor or indoor pools. A cheap hotel is usually a roadside eyesore that is not a family-friendly destination. You get what you pay for.
So, get on your computer’s and start planning your summer destinations. If you have any chains that you have found to be reliable and pleasant, let us know and leave your comments. Traveler’s need to stick together!
Reservation Websites:
http://www.bestwestern.com/
http://www.countryinns.com/
http://www.marriott.com/search/default.mi
Secret Hotels: Extraordinary Values in the World's Most Stunning Destinations
by Erik Torkells
The Smart Traveler's Passport: 399 Tips from Seasoned Travelers (Paperback)
by Erik Torkells
My family and I take a major vacation at least once a year. Sometimes, we even throw in a bonus trip if our budget and our schedules allow. Since my husband is a cautious flyer (to put it mildly), our trips consist of long, weary drives (my description – my husband would describe these drives as scenic and relaxing) that usually include stops at various hotels along the way. Unfortunately, we are not independently wealthy or lottery winners so it is crucial that we find budget-friendly accommodations that are pleasing to the whole family.
First, let me preface this list by saying that I am a “hotel snob.” I am picky. I am obsessive. I want the Ritz, but cannot afford that luxury. I spend hours searching online when making reservations trying to read between the pictures and figuring out which hotels are really as clean as they say and which ones are lying. FYI- most lie. But since this is an article about the best hotel chains, I have found some that stay consistent in their cleanliness, price and service.
Best Western
My first experience with the Best Western chain was about 7 years ago when my family and I went to Disney World. We were trying to be cheap, but still have a great experience. We found this Best Western through one of the discount, online travel sites like Priceline or Expedia. I wish I could remember the exact name and location of this Best Western property, but what I do remember is that we paid about $54 per night for a studio suite that included a king size bed, a living area, a breakfast area (fully stocked with microwave, sink, stove, dishwasher, dishes and utensils), a full bath, phone and cable TV. We were about 20 minutes from all the Disney attractions and there were never any complaints from me.
One hit wonder? Not at all. Just recently, we stayed at the Best Western St. Louis Inn. Same experience, the lobby was clean and nicely decorated. The pool area was well-maintained. No cloudy water from too much or too little chlorine. The breakfast area was spotless and food was more than what you would expect from the traditional, free continental breakfast – there was sausage, eggs, waffles, muffins, gravy – I could go on, but you get the point. The room? The room was very sanitary. The carpet actually looked like it had been swept and there were no soap stains in the bathtub or sink (another indication that cleaning had taken place). The price for this hotel was just $79 per night - perfect for a family traveling together.
Claim to fame: a decent, hot breakfast that is far from the traditional continental fare.
Country Inn and Suites by Carlson
I fell in love with this chain the first time I ever stayed in one in Northern Georgia. This was a spur of the moment stop and I didn’t have the opportunity to do my obsessive research. But I knew right away when I saw this property that I was going to be made to feel at home.
The porch is the trademark of this chain and is inviting with rocking chairs perfectly placed. When you walk in, the lobby is cute and country-charming with comfy furniture arranged around a beautiful fireplace, perfect for reading a newspaper or enjoying a book from the lending library. Lending library?
This feature is what I find so wonderful about this chain. Country Inn and Suites has a Read It and Return Lending Library in over 400 of its USA and Canadian locations. Guests, whether you are an adult or a child, can pick a book from the bookshelf in the lobby and read it either during your stay or on your way home – free of charge! The incentive to read the book and return it is that for every book that is returned, a donation is made to a literacy program. The books vary by location, but you are certain to find something that you will enjoy. To further enhance one’s love of literature, there is a promotion going on now that gives you a $15 Borders gift card when you book a minimum 2 night stay. You can go to the website for the exact details.
The atmosphere of Country Inn and Suites by Carlson is not pricey at all. You can have a great stay for a low price – usually around $89.
Claim to Fame: This chain knows the importance of literacy.
Fairfield Inn by Marriot
I stumbled upon the Fairfield Inn by Marriot many years ago when I visited San Antonio, Texas. I was recovering from a horrible overnight stay at a different hotel chain (leaky air conditioner, dangerous neighborhood and a nasty hair-filled tub) and was in desperate need for a quick fix. The Fairfield Inn & Suites San Antonio Downtown/Market Square was a breath of fresh air. The rooms were maintained (no leaky air conditioner), the property was polished and ready to offer the best amenities for a budget-hotel, free hi-speed internet and parking. Since that stay, if I am ever in a jam for a property, I turn to a Fairfield Inn. I have stayed at properties in Chicago, Florida and Georgia and have never been disappointed.
The prices have varied at each location, but you can usually find accommodations between $89 and $149 per night.
Claim to Fame: Free Wireless High Speed Internet & free parking
A Final Suggestion
When you are searching for a hotel that will fit your family’s budget and vacationing needs, I have one more tip – be cautious and do your research. All of the chains that I highlighted today have never let me down and I have had good experiences with all of them, but that doesn’t mean that conditions are not able to change.
Chains are what they are – franchised properties that have different management at each location. Take advantage of user reviews and read what that particular guest liked or didn’t like about the hotel. Use their reviews based on what you find most appealing in a property (price, convenience, type of rooms, etc.).
Also, know the difference between a budget hotel and a cheap hotel. Budget hotels offer competitive pricing (starting around $79 per night) that offer amenities like free breakfast, free parking, outdoor or indoor pools. A cheap hotel is usually a roadside eyesore that is not a family-friendly destination. You get what you pay for.
So, get on your computer’s and start planning your summer destinations. If you have any chains that you have found to be reliable and pleasant, let us know and leave your comments. Traveler’s need to stick together!
Reservation Websites:
http://www.bestwestern.com/
http://www.countryinns.com/
http://www.marriott.com/search/default.mi
Secret Hotels: Extraordinary Values in the World's Most Stunning Destinations
by Erik Torkells
The Smart Traveler's Passport: 399 Tips from Seasoned Travelers (Paperback)
by Erik Torkells
Valentine's Day Colorful Recipies
Valentine’s Day will soon be here and we all know that red and pink are the signature colors of Valentine’s Day. What better way to incorporate this red and pink theme than in a yummy recipe to share with someone you love.
I have two recipes that are certain to be a hit and they are so absolutely simple to put together. Enjoy the Heart-Shaped Individual Strawberry Shortcakes with your family for a scrumptious, healthy desert. The kids will enjoy using the cookie cutters and helping you tint the cool whip to the perfect shade of pink. Then when the kids go to bed, you and your special someone can turn down the lights, start-up the fire and mix together these uncomplicated, but delicious, Cranberry Mimosas. Cranberry Mimosas add a red twist to the traditional mimosa.
Heart-Shaped Individual Strawberry Shortcakes
Ingredients:
Single-serving angel food cakes
Frozen strawberries, thawed
Cool Whip, thawed
Red food coloring
Directions:
1. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the single-serving angel food cakes into a heart.
2. Spoon the strawberries on top of the angel food cakes.
3. Make your cool whip pink by adding 1 or 2 drops of red food coloring to the thawed cool whip topping. Hint: Start with 1 drop and mix up the cool whip. If the color is not as pink as you desire, then add another drop and mix. Keep doing this until you reach the desired color.
4. Spoon your dyed cool whip topping onto the strawberries and serve.
Cranberry Mimosas
Ingredients:
Cranberry juice
Chilled champagne (I like Jacob Creek’s Chardonnay Pinot Noir)
Directions:
1. Combine 2 parts cranberry juice to 3 parts champagne. You can use pure cranberry juice or for a sweeter drink you can use a cranberry cocktail.
2. Serve chilled.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
I have two recipes that are certain to be a hit and they are so absolutely simple to put together. Enjoy the Heart-Shaped Individual Strawberry Shortcakes with your family for a scrumptious, healthy desert. The kids will enjoy using the cookie cutters and helping you tint the cool whip to the perfect shade of pink. Then when the kids go to bed, you and your special someone can turn down the lights, start-up the fire and mix together these uncomplicated, but delicious, Cranberry Mimosas. Cranberry Mimosas add a red twist to the traditional mimosa.
Heart-Shaped Individual Strawberry Shortcakes
Ingredients:
Single-serving angel food cakes
Frozen strawberries, thawed
Cool Whip, thawed
Red food coloring
Directions:
1. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the single-serving angel food cakes into a heart.
2. Spoon the strawberries on top of the angel food cakes.
3. Make your cool whip pink by adding 1 or 2 drops of red food coloring to the thawed cool whip topping. Hint: Start with 1 drop and mix up the cool whip. If the color is not as pink as you desire, then add another drop and mix. Keep doing this until you reach the desired color.
4. Spoon your dyed cool whip topping onto the strawberries and serve.
Cranberry Mimosas
Ingredients:
Cranberry juice
Chilled champagne (I like Jacob Creek’s Chardonnay Pinot Noir)
Directions:
1. Combine 2 parts cranberry juice to 3 parts champagne. You can use pure cranberry juice or for a sweeter drink you can use a cranberry cocktail.
2. Serve chilled.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Evolutionary Themes on NBC's HEROES
Last season, “Heroes” exploded. The highly anticipated, NBC original drama brought together a group of unassuming, highly intelligent, extremely dominate characters to bring us into a world of superhuman concepts. This season, “Heroes” continues to titillate our minds and force us to expand our ever evolving perception of humankind.
Some viewers may simply find this highly, conceptual show to be merely mind-candy requiring very little thought (like Monday Night Football or the latest reality TV show), but as the show premieres many lingering questions take root. The main question for this viewer is – How do the Heroes assume their powers?
The opening monologue states that our Heroes were brought together by destiny. If this is the case does that mean that their capabilities are indisputable, not reliant upon one single common denominator other than simply being part of the chosen ones? But from last season we see that there were concrete ways in which certain characters acquired their powers. Some were born with their talents, others obtained them through extraction of DNA and lastly, some were able to attain them through absorption.
During season 1, Peter Petrelli (Milo Ventimiglia) struggled with his emerging powers – how they came to be and how to control them. This was an ailment slightly different from his other hero peers. While Claire (Hayden Panettiere), Nathan (Adrian Pasdar) and Niki (Ali Larter) awkwardly discovered their phenomenal talents, they had an inbred understanding of them, unlike the two opposing characters – Peter and Sylar (Zachary J. Quinto).
Both Peter and Syler could take on other Heroes powers, but each did so in a very different way. Syler could only do so by taking DNA from the person, resulting in their death. Peter acquired these same powers, by mere association. In addition, Sylar was never portrayed as a descendant from someone who possessed these abnormal tendencies. Or is that a secret to be revealed later this season? Could he have been part of a line of genetically, predisposed villains? Will this season of Heroes answer these questions? Will Mohinder (Sendhil Ramamurthy), the devout scientist, finally break the code?
If Mohinder cannot solve the evolutionary code, perhaps the writers will clue us in just a little as Season 2 explores the parentage of many of the Heroes. Tim Kring, Creator of the NBC drama, stated in a recent interview that there will be several themes this season one of which will deal with the “. . . the sins of the parents being visited on the children.”
Confused yet? I hope not. “Heroes” is a highly, viewable show that not only seeks to entertain yet challenges the viewer to think outside the box and explore the potential for humankind’s evolution. Do we evolve merely from DNA or do we have the ability to absorb energy from others and advance mankind? Or is our own greatness simply predestined by some unknown entity?
Some viewers may simply find this highly, conceptual show to be merely mind-candy requiring very little thought (like Monday Night Football or the latest reality TV show), but as the show premieres many lingering questions take root. The main question for this viewer is – How do the Heroes assume their powers?
The opening monologue states that our Heroes were brought together by destiny. If this is the case does that mean that their capabilities are indisputable, not reliant upon one single common denominator other than simply being part of the chosen ones? But from last season we see that there were concrete ways in which certain characters acquired their powers. Some were born with their talents, others obtained them through extraction of DNA and lastly, some were able to attain them through absorption.
During season 1, Peter Petrelli (Milo Ventimiglia) struggled with his emerging powers – how they came to be and how to control them. This was an ailment slightly different from his other hero peers. While Claire (Hayden Panettiere), Nathan (Adrian Pasdar) and Niki (Ali Larter) awkwardly discovered their phenomenal talents, they had an inbred understanding of them, unlike the two opposing characters – Peter and Sylar (Zachary J. Quinto).
Both Peter and Syler could take on other Heroes powers, but each did so in a very different way. Syler could only do so by taking DNA from the person, resulting in their death. Peter acquired these same powers, by mere association. In addition, Sylar was never portrayed as a descendant from someone who possessed these abnormal tendencies. Or is that a secret to be revealed later this season? Could he have been part of a line of genetically, predisposed villains? Will this season of Heroes answer these questions? Will Mohinder (Sendhil Ramamurthy), the devout scientist, finally break the code?
If Mohinder cannot solve the evolutionary code, perhaps the writers will clue us in just a little as Season 2 explores the parentage of many of the Heroes. Tim Kring, Creator of the NBC drama, stated in a recent interview that there will be several themes this season one of which will deal with the “. . . the sins of the parents being visited on the children.”
Confused yet? I hope not. “Heroes” is a highly, viewable show that not only seeks to entertain yet challenges the viewer to think outside the box and explore the potential for humankind’s evolution. Do we evolve merely from DNA or do we have the ability to absorb energy from others and advance mankind? Or is our own greatness simply predestined by some unknown entity?
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