Top tips for a Valentine's Day to remember

Choosing the proper gift, card or sentiment during Valentine's Day is a challenge regardless of how long you've been one-half of a "couple." Marketers try to sell a concept and friends give (un)wanted advice while you rack your brain trying to figure out what to do.

But all is not lost.

Kendra Keller knows a thing or two about romance as she is the Head of Romance at Hallmark Cards in the UK. Keller reveals some romance tips which will take you to the top of the class come Valentine's Day:
Gifts:
A Valentine's card, whether it's cute, classy, traditional or tacky, is considered the most important item to receive on Valentine's Day - don't neglect such a simple touch! Upload photographs through an online service to make it extra special.
A home-made gift shows thought, consideration and creativity- think along the lines of home-made muffins, a personalized photo frame (so they can frame your thoughtful personalized Valentine's card of course!) or a delicious three course dinner for extra brownie points.
Messages:
What you write in your personalized Valentine's day card says way more about your relationship than what you buy.
Personalized messages and private jokes show openness and the ability to be honest about your feelings, but remember to keep it clean as other people may well end up reading it!
If you want to write a poem, avoid channeling your inner cheese and remember it doesn't have to rhyme to be romantic – so just give it a go.
Dates:
Dream dates are all about personal touches and don't just have to be about wining and dining, and splashing the cash!
Personal grooming should be a given- but a bit of effort (a nice new shirt/haircut/new underwear) will not go unnoticed and get you extra brownie points, boys and girls!
A home-cooked meal, foot massage, bubble bath or even agreeing to watch football/ Desperate Housewives are all activities that are easily achievable and just as effective as candy hearts and roses.
Why not create a personalized invitation for your date to make it really different?

Sad to say, there isn't a correct answer or cheat sheet for this major test. However, if you give yourself a little time before the big day and reflect, you'll definitely make this year's Valentine's Day one of the best.

Don't be ripped off by a coupon store!

Back in 2011, news that Target was accused of reneging on store coupons had many consumer groups up in arms. But whether they know it or not, consumers can take matters into their own hands and take these steps to make sure they get every last benefit from a store coupon.

TUTORIAL: Budgeting Basics
There's no doubt consumers love their coupons, and those coupons, whether they're of the paper or online variety, often drive consumers to make purchases they may not ordinarily make. (For related reading, see Coupon Shopping: Clip Your Way To Savings.)

According to a recent study from Forrester Research on behalf of Whaleshark Media, six in 10 survey recipients said they would be more likely to make a purchase when given a coupon, even after rejecting that purchase before receiving a coupon. And, around 80% said that receiving coupons brightens their outlook on the company providing that coupon.

But not all coupon programs are on the level. Fake coupons, coupons with too much "fine print," and coupons that are rejected at the point of purchase are just a few ways consumers can get the shaft in a coupon deal.

What are the most recognizable "red flags" that your coupon isn't on the up-and-up? Let's take a look:

Faked Coupons
With the development of computer graphics and scanners, any fly-by-night operation could make coupons, or even coupon books, and sell them to unsuspecting consumers. Or worse, the shoppers themselves would use the bogus coupons to get discounts to purchases. But retailers are wising up, using scannable bar codes on legitimate coupons -- and increasingly, leaving fraudsters to play catch up. (For more information, read Stop Scams In Their Tracks.)

Not Sure If Your Coupon Is Legit?

If you feel like your coupon may be suspect, or just want to be sure before you use it online or in a store, check out the consumer advocacy website Coupon Information Corporation (CIC). The fraud fighting firm has exposed more than $750 million in fraudulent coupons. The site has loads of data for consumers to use to make sure they know the difference between a real coupon and a fake one.

If a "Retailer" or Marketing Firm Asks You to Pay Money for a Coupon, Keep Walking

The CIC adds a good tip to the menu -- avoid shelling out cash for coupons. The group says that "buying coupons from companies/individuals who 'sell the service of clipping coupons' instead of the coupons themselves." The CIC says to be especially vigilant about handing over any personal financial information to companies looking to sell coupons. In other words, don't.

Bone up on Bar Codes
To really make sure you have a legit coupon, start by studying the coupon bar codes. Specifically, look at the bar code down at the bottom of the coupon (it's the same online or with a physical coupon). Always make sure the bar code has 12 digits -- if it doesn't, it's a fake. Also, the 10th and 11th digits on the bar code should correspond to the actual amount, or to at least two similar numbers (for example, 1 and 0 for $1.00, or 7 and 5 for 75 cents off).

Here's a bonus tip: to ensure you get the discount you have coming, always check your receipt before you leave the store, or just after making an online purchase. If the receipt doesn't have the discount included, double back and let the retailer know.

The Bottom Line
Making sure a coupon is legit isn't all that difficult. All it takes is a little due diligence and some sharp focus. Use both and you'll get the most from your coupon book. (For more information, read Why Do Companies Print Coupons?)

Do you need to obtain a transcript of your past tax information?

Taxpayers who need their past tax return information can obtain it from the IRS. Here are nine things to know if you need copies of your federal tax return information.

1) There are two easy and convenient options for obtaining free copies of your federal tax return information -- tax return transcripts and tax account transcripts.

2) The IRS does not charge a fee for transcripts, which are available for the current year as well as the past three years.

3) A tax return transcript shows most line items from your tax return as it was originally filed, including any accompanying forms and schedules. It does not reflect any changes you, your representative or the IRS made after the return was filed. In many cases, a return transcript will meet the requirements of lending institutions, such as those offering mortgages and student loans.

4) A tax account transcript shows any later adjustments either you or the IRS made after the tax return was filed. This transcript shows basic data -- including marital status, type of return filed, adjusted gross income and taxable income.

5) To request either transcript by phone, call 800-829-1040 and follow the prompts in the recorded message.

6) To request a tax return transcript through the mail, individual taxpayers should complete IRS Form 4506T-EZ, Short Form Request for Individual Tax Return Transcript. Form 4506T-EZ is only for individuals who filed a Form 1040 series return. Businesses, partnerships and individuals who need transcript information from other forms or need a tax account transcript must use the Form 4506T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.

7) You should receive your tax return transcript within 10 working days from the time the IRS receives your request. Allow 30 calendar days for delivery of a tax account transcript.

8) If you still need an actual copy of a previously processed tax return, it will cost $57 per tax year and take much longer. Complete Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Form, and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form for your area. Please allow 60 days for actual copies of your return. Copies are generally available for the current year as well as the past six years.

9) Visit the IRS Web site, IRS.gov, to determine which form will meet your needs. Forms 4506, 4506T and 4506T-EZ can be found at IRS.gov or by calling the IRS forms and publications order line at 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

IRS offers top 10 tax-time tip

The income tax filing season has begun and important tax documents should be arriving in your mailbox. Even though your return is not due until April, you can make tax time easier on yourself with an early start. Here are the Internal Revenue Service's top 10 tips to ensure a smooth tax-filing process.

1. Gather your records
Round up any documents you'll need when filing your taxes: receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support income or deductions you're claiming on your return.

2. Be on the lookout
W-2s and 1099s will be coming soon; you'll need these to file your tax return.

3. Have a question?
Use the Interactive Tax Assistant available on the IRS website to find answers to your tax questions about credits, deductions, general filing questions and more.

4. Use Free File
Let Free File do the hard work for you with brand-name tax software or online fillable forms. It's available exclusively at www.irs.gov. Everyone can find an option to prepare their tax return and e-file it for free. If you made $57,000 or less, you qualify to use free tax software offered through a private-public partnership with manufacturers. If you made more or are comfortable preparing your own tax return, there's Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic versions of IRS paper forms. Visit www.irs.gov/freefile to review your options.

5. Try IRS e-file
IRS e-file is the safe, easy and most common way to file a tax return. Last year, 79 percent of taxpayers -- 106 million people -- used IRS e-file. Many tax preparers are now required to use e-file. If you owe taxes, you have payment options to file immediately and pay by the tax deadline. Best of all, the IRS issues refunds to 98 percent of electronic filers by direct deposit within 14 days, if there are no problems, and some may be issued in as few as 10 days.

6. Consider other filing options
There are many options for filing your tax return. You can prepare it yourself or go to a tax preparer. You may be eligible for free face-to-face help at a volunteer site. Give yourself time to weigh all the options and find the one that best suits your needs.

7. Consider direct deposit
If you elect to have your refund directly deposited into your bank account, you'll receive it faster than a paper check in the mail.

8. Visit the official IRS website often
The IRS website at www.irs.gov is a great place to find everything you need to file your tax return: forms, publications, tips, answers to frequently asked questions and updates on tax law changes.

9. Remember this number: 17
Check out IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, on the IRS website. It's a comprehensive resource for taxpayers, highlighting everything you'll need to know when filing your return.

10. Review! Review! Review!
Don't rush. We all make mistakes when we rush. Mistakes slow down the processing of your return. Be sure to double check all the Social Security numbers and math calculations on your return as these are the most common errors. Don't panic! If you run into a problem, remember the IRS is here to help. Start with www.irs.gov.

ATTENTION RESIDENTS: ANNUAL INSPECTION NOTICE

The Annual Backflow, Fire Extinguishers, Alarms & Sprinklers Inspection is set for January 23rd-27th.

All Fire Extinguishers should be placed outside your front door for pickup and will be re-distributed once inspected. This is an annual inspection required by the state of Georgia in order for our community to be in compliance with Multifamily Housing Laws.

Please Make sure pets & personal items are secured properly. 

Tax Tip 2012: Tax Season Deadline Extended to April 17, 2012!!

The Internal Revenue Service has opened the 2012 tax filing season by announcing that taxpayers have until April 17 to file their tax returns. The IRS encourages taxpayers to e-file as it is the best way to ensure accurate tax returns and get faster refunds.

The IRS also announced a number of improvements to help make this tax season easy for taxpayers. This includes new navigation features and helpful information on IRS.gov and a new pilot to allow taxpayers to use interactive video to get help with tax issues.

"At the IRS, we're working hard to make the process of filing your taxes as quick and easy as possible," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. "Providing quality service is one of our top priorities. It not only reduces the burden on taxpayers, but also helps in filing an accurate return right from the start."

Taxpayers will have until Tuesday, April 17 to file their 2011 tax returns and pay any tax due because April 15 falls on a Sunday, and Emancipation Day, a holiday observed in the District of Columbia, falls this year on Monday, April 16. According to federal law, District of Columbia holidays impact tax deadlines in the same way that federal holidays do; therefore, all taxpayers will have two extra days to file this year. Taxpayers requesting an extension will have until Oct. 15 to file their 2011 tax returns.

The IRS expects to receive more than 144 million individual tax returns this year, with most of those being filed by the April 17 deadline.

The IRS will begin accepting e-file and Free File returns on Jan. 17, 2012. Additional details about e-file and Free File will be announced later this month. IRS Free File provides options for free brand-name tax software or online fillable forms plus free electronic filing. Everyone can use Free File to prepare a federal tax return. Taxpayers who make $57,000 or less can choose from approximately 20 commercial software providers. There's no income limit for Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms, which also includes free e-filing.

The IRS also reminds paid tax return preparers they must have and include a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) on all returns they prepare. All PTINs must be renewed for 2012. Tax return preparers can obtain or renew PTINs online.

Assistance Options

The IRS continues to focus on taxpayer service. The best way for taxpayers to get answers to their questions is by visiting the IRS website at IRS.gov. The IRS has updated the front page of the IRS website to make it easier for taxpayers to get key forms, information and file tax returns. The front page also has links to taxpayer-friendly videos on the IRS YouTube channel. More improvements are planned for IRS.gov in the months ahead.

Last year, the IRS unveiled IRS2Go, its first smartphone application that lets taxpayers check on the status of their tax refund and obtain helpful tax information. The IRS reminds Apple users that they can download the free IRS2Go application by visiting the Apple App Store and Android users can visit the Android Marketplace to download the free IRS2Go app.

Individuals making $50,000 or less can use the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program for free tax preparation and, in many cases, free electronic filing. Individuals age 60 and older can take advantage of free tax counseling and basic income tax preparation through Tax Counseling for the Elderly. Information on these programs can be found at IRS.gov.

For tax law questions or account inquiries, taxpayers can also call our toll-free number (7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time) or visit a taxpayer assistance center, the locations of which are listed on IRS.gov.

Virtual Service

The IRS has begun a new pilot program where taxpayers can get assistance through two-way video conferencing. The IRS is conducting a limited roll out of this new video conferencing technology at 10 IRS offices and two other sites, and may expand to further sites in the future. A list of locations is available on IRS.gov.

Check for a Refund

Once taxpayers file their federal return, they can track the status of their refunds by using the "Where's My Refund?" tool, which taxpayers can get to using the IRS2Go phone app or from the front page of www.IRS.gov. By providing their Taxpayer Identification Numbers, filing status, and the exact whole dollar amount of their anticipated refund taxpayers can generally get information about their refund 72 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of their e-filed returns, or three to four weeks after mailing a paper return.

Like Babies, Dogs pick up on people's intent

Man's beloved four-legged friends not only respond to the words and ministrations of humans, dogs can understand and anticipate the intentions of their people, researchers are reporting.

In a new study, dogs who were spoken to or who had direct eye contact with a person were more likely to follow that human's gaze as it moved across the room than if the person didn't make direct eye contact with them.

The skills are equivalent to what is seen in 6-month-old human infants, say researchers, who published their findings online Jan. 5 in Current Biology.

"These results support the notion that dogs are sensitive to the cues signaling humans' communicative intent in a way that is analogous to preverbal human infants," said study author Jozsef Topal.

"Dogs were domesticated for the purpose of working with people, so it's essential that the two species are able to communicate," said Adam Goldfarb, director of pet care issues at The Humane Society of the United States. "Even though most dogs have transitioned away from their work of herding or hunting, they've retained their communication tools."

More and more research is illuminating the uncanny human-like qualities ofCanis lupus familiaris, better known as the domestic dog.

One study in the July 2011 issue of Learning & Behavior found that domesticated dogs were more likely to beg food from a person looking at them as opposed to someone who wasn't paying attention.

And canine-intelligence expert Stanley Coren has found that dogs have the developmental abilities of a human 2-year-old, with the average dog capable of learning the meanings of 165 words.

In the new study, 16 pet dogs watched videos of female actors turning towards a plastic pot.

In the first experiment, the actor gazed directly at the dog and said in a high-pitched voice, "Hi dog!"

In the second experiment, the actor said "Hi dog" in a low-pitched voice but didn't make eye contact.

Using eye-tracking techniques, which are already commonly used to study infant behavior, the researchers determined that the dogs were more likely to follow the human turning toward the pot when they had both been spoken to and received direct eye contact. Saying "Hi dog" in a low-pitched voice without the direct gaze didn't cue the dogs in to the human's intent.

Eye-tracking techniques are also likely to be useful in studying other aspects of dogs' cognitive processing, such as memory skills and reasoning abilities, said Topal, who is an associate professor in the Comparative Behavior Research Group at the Institute for Psychological Researches, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, in Budapest.

"The [dog's] gaze was only triggered when preceded by communicating intent. It does seem to be that dogs do look at humans and follow gestures," said Dr. Nicholas Dodman, director of the Animal Behavior Clinic at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Mass. "This is intuitive to anyone who owns a dog, that dogs seem to be more in tune with us than some scientists believe."

"This should reinforce that if we want our dog's attention, we should be clear about it," Goldfarb said. "For those people who talk to their dog in a baby-talk voice, they should keep it up. Your dog knows that you're talking to him or her and will pay more attention."

7 Super Vitamins to help improve memory

It starts one day, when you're sitting at your desk, and you suddenly think of the coffee maker on your kitchen counter. Then, you ask yourself whether you turned it off or not. You replay your entire morning in your mind, from your morning bathroom regiment to the toast with jam you had for breakfast. Or was it a bagel and cream cheese? Great, now you can't remember what you had for breakfast either. Then, it gets worse. You start misplacing things like your keys or your cell phone. You forget if you used the shampoo before applying the conditioner, and the list goes on.

Maybe it's time to invest in something that will help jog that memory of yours. No, it's not some expensive contraption or medical treatment. The answer to help you improve memory is quite simple, really - vitamins. Here are seven vitamins that can help cure your forgetful woes:

1. Vitamin E

Studies have shown that the antioxidant properties of vitamin E can help protect nerve cells in the brain from damage. There is also evidence that vitamin E can keep nerve cells in the brain from dying after suffering a stroke. Vitamin E has also been found to improve the memory function of the elderly. Check with your physician before considering vitamin E as a memory supplement, as high doses can have an effect on blood clotting medications.

2. Vitamin B6

Aside from maintaining numerous functions of the body, vitamin B6 has been shown to improve memory retention, while supporting brain health. Research shows that a daily intake of vitamin B6 resulted in improved memory over time, and the brain's ability to process information at a faster rate. Look to tuna,eggs, carrots and other vegetables for a good source of vitamin B6.

3. Vitamin B12

Research has shown that vitamin B12 can keep the blood levels of homocysteine at a healthy level. Homocysteine is an amino acid associated with decreased brain function if not managed properly. This vitamin also has the ability to repair the brain's nerve fibers, and is a great memory enhancer when paired with vitamin B6. Beef, liver, clams and trout contain significant amounts of vitamin B12.

4. Vitamin B9

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, helps in the production of red blood cells, which allows for more oxygen to the brain. This vitamin has been shown to reduce the rate of memory loss associated with aging. If you're looking for a good source of vitamin B9, try eating foods made from whole grains, or drinking juice made from oranges or tomatoes.

5. Vitamin C

The antioxidant properties of vitamin C are so beneficial to your health, they even help with your memory. A recent study has found a correlation between memory problems and babies who suffer a vitamin C deficiency. Another study found vitamin C to have protective properties against memory problems and a loss of mental alertness. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources for vitamin C, particularly citrus fruits like grapefruit.

6. Vitamin D

A lack of vitamin D has been shown to disrupt the brain's ability to plan, process and form new memories. One study suggests that the decreased level of vitamin D in the elderly is associated with the loss of memory due to aging. Look to eating more mackerel, tuna and foods fortified with vitamin D to increase your daily intake of this vitamin.

7. Vitamin B3

Nicotinamide, which is a form of vitamin B3, has been found, in recent studies, to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Since these tests were conducted on mice, further clinical testing is needed to determine the effects of vitamin B3 on humans. Aside from reducing the risk and effects of Alzheimer's disease, vitamin B3 also reduces the risk of heart disease and lowers LDL cholesterol. Tuna, chicken, turkey, salmon and asparagus provide a significant source of vitamin B3.

Rincon Dairy Queen Raises Money for the Davis Family

One community is stepping up to help a family devastated by a fire. The Dairy Queen in Rincon is raising money for the Davis family after the mother, father, and two of their children were killed when their home caught fire last week. Russell Davis was the Dairy Queen Assistant Manager and is truly missed by everyone who worked along with him.

"It is still hard. We are missing a big piece of our family. With him not here it is still hard. I keep expecting him to come in any minute and relieve me off the shift," said Scott Ballard, Dairy Queen.

Between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Jan 19, the Dairy Queen will donate 100 percent of their proceeds to help the Davis family.

Fit Club: Keep Your Calories in Check

The holidays are a time to celebrate. We eat, we drink, we indulge then we end up feeling bloated, tired and lazy.

You don't have to let every holiday party become your own personal eating contest, and you don't have to let shopping take the place of your usual exercise routine.

Treating every party as an invitation to indulge is a sure way to add pounds. Here are some tips from the experts to keep calories in check.

"If you are going to a party, planning ahead," said Dr. Cindy Gleit. "Counting the number of cookies you are going to eat. Eat a lower calorie meal for lunch. Load up on vegetables during the party or your first trip to the serving trays, that way you will eat less for the bad for you foods as you go."

The holidays can cause an internal struggle between the desire to splurge on festive treats and the will to avoid the inevitable weight gain that ensues after overindulging.

Experts say the average person gain 6 to 8 pounds during holidays. This is an example of 5 pounds of fat. It would take you about 27 hours on treadmill to burn that off.

"During the holiday season, we really anticipate the weight gain the non activity. There are so many things we can keep in mind when looking at holiday parties and gatherings. Stick to the healthy stuff, it doesn't have to be all dessert, if it is moderation is the key. I know we say that all the time. It is really important to stick to that mind set," she said.

Make a decision to do everything you can to stay active and eat healthy while not depriving yourself of all the fun. Keeping in mind moderation will allow you to enjoy special holiday foods without having to go up a size by January.

Sober Ride Application- new for the android market!

The Drive Sober GA smartphone application that helps drivers find a ride home in their area has been downloaded 1,000 from the Android Market less than a week after its launch, according to the Governor's Office of Highway Safety.

The app is also available for the iPhone. It's part of Georgia's Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign to reduce impaired driving-related crashes.

"To know that 1,000 people will have an alternative to drinking and driving at their fingertips is great news for Georgia. This is the first time we have developed a product for the smart phone market and we are delighted with the response," said Harris Blackwood, director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, in a statement. "I have had parents of college students tell me that their children have downloaded the app as a precaution. That's why we have it available."

The GOHS cautions against texting and using the Driver Sober GA app while driving, which is against the law in Georgia.

For more details about Drive Sober Georgia app, go to www.drivesobergeorgia.com

Beginner Actor's workshop set for Sunday

Three films are coming to Savannah in the beginning of 2012, and a one-day class is being offered to help you prepare. 

The class will be led by Chip Lane and Angelique Chase. It will prepare participants with proper etiquette and photos. It's open to those ages 14 and older. A childrens' workshop is coming soon.

The class runs from 2 to 5 p.m. Jan. 8 at 2 E. Henry St. The cost is $60.




The workshop will include:
How to properly submit for a Role or Extra Role
How to Slate: Format instruction and Practice time
Introduction to Cold Reading a script
What to wear and not wear to audition
Proper follow-up procedure
Proper on-set etiquette

A professional photo will be taken of participants, which will be added to the First City Films' Extras Database.