Posts Tagged ‘e-Management’
Tuesday, November 24th, 2015
Comfort Food Spotlight: Lentil soup is a nutritious meal that is packed with Vitamin C, fiber, zinc, iron, and protein. (Photo Credit: the kitchn)
By Dagmar Alayash
It’s this time of year again, and the Foodie Team at e-Management is asking how did we get here so soon? Many of us are reflecting on the past year, and with evenings drawing closer and cooler now, our thoughts turn to the holidays, family, and of course, an array of endless culinary delights.
Food that comforts us…
Speaking of amazing food, we’re taking a look at dishes that are considered comfort food and ask why they are comfort foods? Wikipedia says comfort foods are traditional staples that bring feelings of nostalgia. These foods usually have a “high carbohydrate level” and are simple to prepare. Think chili, soup, and stew dishes. Why do we love these foods so much? Well, the long slow cooking of these dishes intensifies the melding of ingredients, enhances the flavors, and makes for overall delicious satisfying meals.
Soups for the soul…
Becoming more popular are soups and dishes that include ingredients from the ‘Superfood’ category, resulting in not only nutritious, but also very tasty hearty meals. For example , , and . All of these soups are very flavorful and filling. Yes, it can be a lot of chopping, but they are so easy to create, and once you taste the foods, you’ll know it was worth every minute making them. The spinach soup is described as ‘restorative’ in the recipe, which is perhaps what we are looking for in comfort food, something that will give us a lift, make us feel good, and essentially help to restore our energy reserve, which around the holidays can feel depleted at times!
More comforting…
, a comfort food if there ever was one; and one of the best recipes that always receive rave reviews from the Food Network. Like one of the kings of comfort foods Macaroni cheese? Try this cholesterol-free and unimaginable tasty – described as luxurious, savory, mega satisfying and altogether dreamy. Do these words capture most of what we’re looking for when we seek out comfort foods? Sweets and desserts also count as essential in the comfort food arena. Hot chocolate comes to mind and warm cinnamon rolls with the must-have sweet and creamy icing…. the list of comfort sweets is endless.
Morning comfort…
Hearty breakfasts can also be a truly comforting way to start your day, especially at this time of the year. FoodNetwork.com recently listed ‘50 States 50 Breakfasts’, that includes an found in Boise Idaho, Red Feather Lounge, so popular that they frequently sell out within a couple of hours of opening – perhaps 2016 is the year of a foodie vacation planned around visiting Boise Idaho. 
Your favorite…
All of a sudden we are hungry. Why is that? Now, we invite you to join us with your own thoughts: (1) How do you define the meaning of comfort foods? (2) What are your favorite comfort foods? (3) What comfort foods will make it to your holiday dinners?
Tags: Dagmar Alayash, diet, , foodie, holidays, nutrition, Ola Sage, Thanksgiving
Posted in Dining, Lifestyle | 15 Comments »
Monday, October 19th, 2015
by Dennis Powell, e-Management
Are you more focused on your online or social media world than your in-person communications and interactions? (Photo Credit: blog.doctoroz.com)
Let’s keep it real. Many of us are addicted to e-mail, social media, and all things Internet. If you think you are not obsessed with online technology, think about what life would be like if wireless networks went down and you had to live without your tablets (iPad, Google, Windows, Samsung, etc.) or mobile phones (Android, Blackberry, iPhone, etc.) for a few days. *add horror show music here*
Sure Internet-enabled technology has its benefits, including quick access to family members, lower cost for long distance communications; portable music, literature, and movies; and instant access to information about virtually any topic. Nevertheless, there are drawbacks. The online world may lead some of us to experience feelings of depression or anxiety. Then there is the fact that everything on the Internet is essentially traceable—leaving users vulnerable to online spies, con artists, or predators.
Tips to Unplug from the Internet, Apps, Games, or Social Media
The capacity for others to see our most intimate online communications is a little too “Big Brother” for my taste. Add to that, online communications can be extremely demanding on your time. So, I got to thinking. Are there ways people can unplug to become better connected to old fashion human interaction? Are they tricks to protect users from Internet surveillance or online predators? So I pulled together this short tip list.
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Try logging off for a weekend: Personally, Monday through Friday is the time I am most connected via mobile phone, text messaging, social media, and the Internet for work and personal use. During the weekends, I have essentially put in place an online moratorium. As a result, my weekends are free from various Internet interruptions and I can spend time with people who are dearest to me. In addition, I discourage the use of tech devices with the exception of the occasional camera phone when I am with my family and friends.
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Try blocking off time away from the Internet, online games, and mobile devices: Think about it, many parents limit their children’s access to television as a way to provide balance in their kids’ lives. Try using the same concept when it comes to your mobile devices and online communications (texting, social media, games, apps). If a weekend is too long for you to be offline, consider establishing a weekly or bi-monthly family and friend’s night out. Turn off the phones and Internet devices and keep them in “airplane” mode so that you are disconnected from the web, and can now focus on meaningful connections with loved ones.
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Learn how to protect your online privacy: ZDNet, an online tech resource, offered up several lines of protection from online spies including getting rid of social media altogether, turning off all GPS-tracking apps, and quit texting. These recommendations may seem draconian; but these simply activities will reduce how much private information you place on the Internet, making you less vulnerable to spies and hackers.
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Create a plan to limit one’s time online: A recent study by Anxiety UK, revealed more than 50% of people surveyed by the organization said they saw their lives change negatively with their increasing online interactions. As it turns out, too much online interaction may lead to online fights; may promote the perception that the user is less capable, attractive, or appealing than others online; and may lead to forms of anxiety. These are compelling reason to limit one’s online time. Try blocking off time for online communications and setting an alarm, which notifies you of when it’s time to “unplug.”
All about Balance
It’s kind of scary when you think about how connected we are to Internet-enabled communications and the impact it can have on our emotions and our very existence. Still, online communication is clearly an enjoyable experience for many of us. So, (1) What tips do you have to maintain a healthy online/offline balance? (2) Does online communication make us more social or anti-social? (3) What are some of the things about mobile devices and their users that drive you crazy?
Tags: Android, , apps, Dennis Powell, , gaming, , iPad, iPhone, Nokia, Ola Sage, Samsung, smartphone, Social Media, tablet, unplugging
Posted in Entertainment, Family, Social Media | 19 Comments »
Thursday, July 9th, 2015
San Miguel de Allende is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, great food, pleasant summer climate, and incredible vistas. So, when do you plan to book your trip there? Photo Credit: Jiuguang Wang (https://goo.gl/bDa73z)
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
July 4th has come and gone. While many people limit their days off to Independence Day week, August, and perhaps Labor Day, the e-Management Travel Team knows that July is a great month to travel; so we got together and created our vacation recommendations for summer travelers. Check them out!
Try the San Juan Islands in Washington State. Located approximately 100 miles north of Seattle, the scenic islands are popular in July. Surrounded by pristine blue ocean and made up of spectacularly lush green terrain, summer temperatures on the islands are in the comfortable 70-degree range. The islands are also known for their small towns and villages, vineyards, and fine cuisine prepared from local food sources. Nature and marine life enthusiasts may find orca whale watching fascinating. Known for its annual Tour de Lopez (on Lopez Island), the area is great for cycling. The San Juan Islands may be one of the country’s best kept summer secrets.
Explore La Fête Nationale in France. For those who fancy international travel destinations, France in July is a wonderful option. Americans who enjoy Independence Day celebrations on July 4th should certainly check out how the French party and celebrate their Bastille Day (officially La Fête Nationale). The July 14th holiday commemorates the start of the French Revolution. Events are nationwide, but visitors may want to visit Paris for the Military Parade on the Champs-Élysées. Visitors will love the annual concert on the Champs-de-Mars. As with any big celebration, there are major fireworks lighting the sky around the Eiffel Tower. Traveling on a budget? The has a page for finding deals in France.
Visit the Heart of Mexico. Time magazine picked July as a great month to visit San Miguel de Allende located in the heart of the Mexico and we agree. Named after General Ignacio Allende (a prominent leader in Mexico’s quest for independence from Spain), the town is rich in history and charm. For those who love architecture, the town is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings and edifices. San Miguel offers low humidity and comfortable temperatures during the day and cool nights. Foodies will love a sundry of rooftop restaurants that provide stunning views of the town. July also offers lower lodging costs for budget-conscious travelers. *** Great food, low prices, and amazing views…what are you waiting for, call your travel agent today. J ***
Discover Maui. Ranked at the top of the U.S. News & World Report Best Summer Vacations list, Maui is a great destination for those looking for a happy medium between upbeat nightlife and complete tranquility. First of all, the island has over 30 miles of celebrated beaches. Travelers who enjoy a good game of golf may be interested to know that the island has some of the best courses in the world. Nature lovers may want to take a day trip to Haleakala National Park, the perfect destination for hiking, camping, and viewing stunning sunsets and sunrises. For nightlife and a fine dining, check out Kihei and Lahaina. Each is known for singalong bars, dance clubs, and sports pubs. Visitors can relax in the tiered Pools of Oheo, which are filled by waterfalls.
Enjoy San Francisco. Contrary to popular belief, Mark Twain never said, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” Hopefully, that revelation alone should encourage visitors to consider this picturesque city in the summer. Besides, most people don’t go to San Fran for the weather. They go for the variety of options for fun. What’s so great this town? Everything! You get to ride on vintage-style cable cars that are popular with visitors of all ages and backgrounds! There’s the scenic Golden Gate Bridge, perhaps the most famous overpass in the nation. Other tourist attractions include one of the country’s most infamous prisons Alcatraz, the eclectic Fisherman’s Wharf, and the charming Palace of Fine Arts. Traveling with young ones or teens? Check out the Walt Disney Family Museum. Its Tomorrowland: Walt’s Vision for Today exhibition runs from July 22 through December 7, 2015! San Francisco has a little bit of something for everyone.
The Best of July
That’s our shortlist of places to visit in July. The Travel Channel lists other options like Barbados, Provincetown (Massachusetts), and Pamplona (Spain). Those are certainly on our bucket lists! (1) Do you plan to travel this summer? (2) What are your favorite summer destinations? (3) What other times of the year are great times to travel based on your experiences?
Tags: Bastille Day, Champs-Élysées, Dennis Powell, , Eiffel Tower, foodie, France, Golden Gate Bridge, golf, Hawaii, Maui, Mexico, Ola Sage, San Francisco, San Juan Islands, San Miguel de Allende, summer, Tomorrowland, tourist, Travel
Posted in Dining, Events, Family, Lifestyle, Travel | 24 Comments »
Tuesday, June 9th, 2015
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
Did you know a trip by Amtrak results in less greenhouse gas emissions than other popular modes of travel? (Photo: Amtrak)
The National Railroad Passenger Corporation, known as Amtrak, is a quasi-government organization that officially launched 44 years ago. Amtrak provides passenger train service to nearly 31 million passengers to towns and cities across the country. Since 1971, Amtrak has relied on federal money—much to the chagrin of some members of Congress, which authorizes the passenger railroad service’s funding. Amtrak has also faced significant challenges. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) data shows that between 2010 and 2014, there has been an average of 26 derailments annually. So far, this year there has been at least nine. Amtrak’s May 12th derailment in Philadelphia left over a half dozen dead and more than 140 injured. The accident renewed criticism around the organization’s safety and funding. Others have criticized the passenger rail service for what they see as old-fashioned technology, which lags behind the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and China.
Enough of the criticism!
With all the negative press and unfortunate events around Amtrak over the past few weeks, it’s sometimes too hard to remember that there are benefits and conveniences to using the rail service. We’ve pulled together a list of why Amtrak is important to life in America.
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Amtrak drops passengers and business travelers off in the actual city they are visiting. First time visitors to Washington, DC—a popular Amtrak destination—are usually surprised at the hurdles they may have to go through to get from Dulles International Airport to the city, which is located about 27 miles away (up to an hour of driving if there is traffic). In contrast, Amtrak passengers are dropped off at Union Station, only a few blocks from Congress, eateries, hotels, historical sites, and downtown DC. The same is true for rail stations in New York City, Philadelphia, and other towns serviced by Amtrak. Say goodbye to those $75 taxi rides to the hotel and those sometimes frustrating multiple stops via shuttle service providers!
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Amtrak’s travel experience is often less of a hassle…Passengers get more leg room than the typical premium, extra cost seats on airlines AND they don’t have to pay extra! Plus, travelers won’t be stuck in the dreaded middle seat because there aren’t any on Amtrak. Customers can power up their smartphones, tablets, or laptops using power outlets on trains. There is also free Wi-Fi on some trains. What about those popular $50 luggage fees and other hidden costs associated with some airlines? Well, the Amtrak website states there are “no extra fees—what you see is what you get.” Perhaps best of all, passengers aren’t required to show up two hours before the train leaves, wait in long security lines, or undress (removing shoes, belts, etc.) before jumping abroad. For city to city/regional travel, Amtrak seems like a more streamlined approach to traveling.
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Traveling by Amtrak is greener than air travel or a road trip. That’s right. A trip by rail results in less greenhouse gas emissions than other popular modes of travel! The U.S. Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory Data on Fuel Efficiency – Transportation Energy Data Book (Edition 33) illustrates that traveling by rail is 30% more efficient (in terms of mileage) than by auto. Amtrak is so committed to reducing its passengers’ carbon footprint, it has partnered with Carbonfund.org. This partnership empowers Amtrak riders to offset their “carbon emissions footprint” through making voluntary contributions to Carbonfund.org—a nonprofit dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of energy consumption. Find out more at
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Amtrak puts Americans to work. The rail service employs more than 20,000 people. As one might expect, Amtrak staff and loved ones can take advantage of complimentary services on the rail systems traveling throughout its 21,300-mile (34,000 km) system. Amtrak employees don’t pay Social Security taxes. Instead, they get a higher retirement benefit by paying special taxes as a result of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act (RRTA). Plus, they can elect to participate in a traditional 401(k) retirement plan.
Not Even Close to Perfect
Amtrak isn’t the most advanced passenger rail system in the world. Its federal funding will likely be cut again in the next fiscal year. And yes, it has yet to turn a profit. Still, with proper guidance, investments, and upgrades to its infrastructure, Amtrak’s future days could be brighter. (1) What are your thoughts of rail vs. road vs. air travel? (2) Do you think Amtrak is good for America? (3) When was the last time you traveled by rail (excluding light rail and subway systems)?
Tags: Amtrak, carbon emissions, Dennis Powell, , FRA, government spotlight, greenhouse gas, hi-speed rail, Ola Sage, rail
Posted in Entertainment, Government, Lifestyle, Travel | 26 Comments »
Tuesday, April 28th, 2015
The DOE EM PPPO recently launched a website that “will help people stay current, involved and informed” about the radioactive material cleanup efforts at the Portsmouth, Ohio and Paducah, Kentucky Gaseous Diffusion Plant Sites. Photo source: PPPO
By Dennis Powell, e-Management
The Cold War is a distant memory for many. Political tension between the United States and the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics led to a massive buildup of nuclear weapons over decades. That era is over and has left a legacy of nuclear material, radioactive waste, and contamination. It all sounds a little scary. But you can take some comfort due to the work of the Department of Energy (DOE). Many Americans are oblivious to the role of DOE in everyday life. Our focus for this government spotlight is DOE’s Office of Environmental Management (EM), the United States’ response to its Cold War environmental legacy. Since 1989, EM’s focus has been on managing nuclear materials and cleaning up radioactive waste and contamination in the United States.
EM’s Legacy…
EM’s impact on communities around the country cannot be overstated. Nuclear products, if not properly managed, can have serious consequences on life and our environment. Here are five important ways EM is working for Americans and keeping the environment safe from the harmful effects of radioactive waste and contamination.
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Retiring Nuclear Facilities. One of the responsibilities of EM is deactivation and decommissioning (D&D). During this process, EM safely and completely shuts down nuclear facilities to protect the environment and communities from hazardous and radioactive materials. One facility that is currently in the process of D&D is the Kentucky-based Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, which in the past was a nuclear enrichment plant for military and civil programs. The Paducah facility was the last uranium enrichment plant in the USA. Last month, the EM Portsmouth/Paducah Project Office (PPPO) launched a new website (energy.gov/pppo) that “will help people stay current, involved and informed” about the progress of the decommissioning of the Paducah plant, according to PPPO Manager William E. Murphie.
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Promoting Sustainability. In addition to D&D, EM has a strong commitment to renewable energy. For instance, innovations at EM have led to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®), a noted green building certification program, honored EM’s groundwater treatment plant at Hanford (Washington State) with the very first gold certification in the sustainable design category. Additionally, EM’s Savannah River Site (SRS) recently received a Department of Energy Sustainability Award. Why? SRS developed a new way to determine radiation levels from containers of transuranic (TRU) waste—materials from plutonium or other human-made radioactive elements. The new technique has already saved the government more than $10 million.
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Processing Waste. The SRS initiative above is part of EM’s Tank Waste and Waste Processing program. EM is tasked with disposing of radioactive and hazardous waste at a number of facilities around the country. How much nuclear waste are we talking about? There’s a lot of it. DOE is responsible for more than 85 million gallons of liquid waste and over 4,000 cubic meters of solid waste in bins.
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Protecting the Public and Environment. The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) is the only deep geologic repository for TRU waste in the United States. TRU waste can remain harmful for thousands of years according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). So, this type of radioactive material must be kept isolated to keep the public and environment safe. As its name suggests, WIPP is secluded—located in the Chihuahauan Desert of southeastern New Mexico, approximately 26 miles east of Carlsbad. DOE sites send contaminated materials including soil, clothing, and debris to WIPP for permanent disposal in rooms that are located 2,150 feet underground.
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Consolidating to Improve Business and Performance. In order to meet its high-stakes mission of waste management and nuclear clean-up, EM is doing its work smarter. Last year, Federal News Radio highlighted the EM Consolidated Business Center (EMCBC) and how that office has pulled many of EM’s functions into one centralized location. The result is that things are working better, including the overall management of radioactive waste site closures.
Environmental Thoughts…
The use of nuclear energy and products remain highly controversial. (1) What are your thoughts about the work EM is currently doing around nuclear waste management and cleanup? (2) Are you for or against the use of nuclear power? (3) What are your ideas around sustainable sources of energy?
Tags: Carlsbad, Dennis Powell, DOE, , EM, EMCBC, environment, EPA, government spotlight, Hanford, nuclear, Ola Sage, PPPO, SRS, TRU, WIPP
Posted in Energy, Government, Risk Management | 16 Comments »
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