Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Where In The World Is The Best Restaurant? San Pellegrino knows

If you are into fine dining and travel, then this story is for you. The annual San Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards is out, and the top spot belongs to Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark. But the real winner is Europe, as the continent boasts more than half of the venues on the list. The highest-ranked U.S. restaurant? Eleven Madison Park in New York, which came in at No. 4.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/04/28/travel/san-pellegrinos-worlds-best-restaurants/

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Spring Is Time To Deck Your Home With New Patio

Now that winter has faded away, it's time to enjoy what Spring has to offer. With a new patio deck, you can bask in the beautiful, blooming and bustling outdoors. Just keep in mind these tips as you are planning this exciting home addition.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Use Tile to Add Style -- And Easy Maintenance -- to Floors

When you are building or upgrading your home, one of the best investments you can make is tile flooring. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also easy to clean. Plus, there are tons of options, ranging in color, size, texture and price. Read on to learn some tips for choosing the right tile.

http://ravallirepublic.com/special-section/how-to/article_00aae254-c102-5918-95d1-1c317ffbcdfa.html

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Renovating Your Home for Spring? Let There Be Light!

Take advantage of Spring to lighten up your home. Consider projects like inserting a skylight or sprucing up your walls with a brighter shade of paint. Not only can these changes enliven your abode, but they may also provide added value to your home.

http://marion.wickedlocal.com/article/20140414/NEWS/140418854/12445/LIFESTYLE

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Tableside Computer Tablets Add Speed, Entertainment to Restaurant Dining

That computer tablet you’re holding in your hand could be coming to a restaurant table near you.

An increasing number of food establishments are turning to technology to add some spark to their service. Well-known restaurant chains like Chili’s Bar & Grill and Applebee’s, as well as smaller eateries across the United States, are incorporating tableside touchscreen tablets so customers can order drinks, appetizers, desserts or even their entire meal.


With the unlimited aspect of technology, restaurants can offer more detailed menu descriptions and nutritional information.


Another use for the tablets is quick payment, as diners can swipe their credit card themselves.


Not only is this mobile technology being used to speed up ordering, but it is also providing a means of entertainment for customers. Diners can tap into sports shows or listen to music while they are eating or awaiting their food. It’s a more personalized approach to the televisions you see hanging around many sports bars.


Other entertaining features include interactive games for adults and children. That means, instead of a ubiquitous pack of crayons, kids could use a touchscreen tablet to play connect the dots, conduct a word search or paint a picture.


Restaurants are utilizing these tablets in a variety of ways, including setting up special kiosks or simply providing handheld devices to patrons. Both options seem to be getting positive feedback from clientele.


However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Detractors are worried about the effect these tablets will have on waiters and waitresses, including whether jobs will be lost in the name of technology.


Other concerns revolve around the dining experience itself, as some opponents decry the solitary nature of these handheld devices. After all, “eating out” is typically a social endeavor. Will that camaraderie be lost if guests have their noses buried in a tablet?


Regardless of debate, it seems that tableside tablets are the trend du jour. Tech companies like MenuPad, Ziosk and E La Carte are striking more deals with restaurants across the United States, so don’t be surprised to be working with one of these devices the next time you stop in at your favorite dining spot. 

Friday, April 11, 2014

Restaurant Customers Use Social Media to Protest Menu Changes

Ever been disappointed when your favorite eatery updates its menu -- and gets rid of your favorite dish? You are not alone, and there are plenty of social media campaigns to prove it. Find out how your fellow diners are fighting for what they want to eat.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Take Time to Create Solid 'Blueprint' for Renovation Project

It can be easy to get over-excited when you are planning a renovation for your home. But be sure to step back and make a plan ... before you jump into any changes. By taking your time, you can avoid mistakes and ultimately achieve the home upgrade you desire.

http://www.dailyinterlake.com/online_features/real_estate/renovating-laying-a-good-foundation-for-home-improvement-success/article_65f64586-1afe-517b-8d18-b339b013b286.html

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Tiny Homes Challenge Theory That Bigger is Better

More people are taking part in the Tiny House Movement, building homes measuring as little at 1,000 square feet. The simpler approach appeals to individuals who want to minimize the "stuff" in their lives and focus on the basics. It's also much easier on the pocketbook!

http://worcestermag.com/2014/04/03/big-dreams-tiny-house/22202

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Report: U.S. Commercial Construction may be on rebound

Spurred by hotel and retail chain growth, non-residential construction is expected to be on the rise, according to a recent report from the American Institute of Architects. This is good news for a sector that has struggled just as mightily as the housing market in recent years.

http://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/construction-is-picking-up-projected-to-grow/article_5902c114-6c77-5578-8f93-130833703818.html