Pinterest is easy to use, easy to share, and visually pleasing. A bit confusing at first, the site describes itself as a place for users to “organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.” A Pinboard could be anything, from fashion to inspirational quotes to pictures of cute animals, it’s completely up to the user as to how to personalize based on individual interests.

As one of Time Magazine‘s 50 best websites of 2011, Pinterest makes it easy for users by employing a “Pin It” button that can be downloaded to a bookmarks bar. This allows users to pin while surfing the internet. If an image is spotted while on your favorite blog, just press the Pin It button and a window pops up, allowing you to pick which of your boards (you can maintain several) you would like it to be pinned to and two write a short description. With ties to other sites like Facebook and Twitter, your pins can be viewed not just by other Pinterest users, but your Facebook friends and Twitter followers as well.

Unlike other popular social networking sites however, Pinterest requires an invitation to join. Potential pinners can request an invitation easily, but may have to wait several days for acceptance. Still, according to Tech Crunch, the site still has 1.5 active facebook users as is quite a successful “self-expression engine”.

According to Shape magazine, research has shown the effectiveness of creating vision boards to inspire people to attain goals or lead healthy lifestyles. Pinning items that remind you of the things that make you happy or that you desire can keep you focused on leading the life you want. Want to be more put together when you dress? Make a fashion pinboard in which you might collect outfit ideas and images of clothes you wish to buy at some point. Pin images of people whose style you admire. Too tired to cook at the end of the day? Pin photos of artfully arranged meals or easy-to-cook recipes may inspire you to find your inner chef at the day’s end. Wondering how you can better organize your ideas for an upcoming event or keep track of ideas for the home? Make a pinboard.

Pinterest allows you to “repin” the pins of other users that catch your eye. Much like other sites, it allows you to “like” and comment. Despite the overabundance of sites designed for sharing with others, Pinterest makes it quite easy and accessible to get a better idea of the true likes and interests of your friends. Mashable Business claims that Pinterest is “just as much about the users as it is what they’ve posted”, making it worth your time to check out and subsequently become obsessed.

Photos by bryanlanders and Thea N. via flickr. 

I love my girlfriends, you love your girlfriends, but there are times that we must go with our gut, and dating is one of them. Check out the top 5 things women are usually told not to do when dating, but in fact should.

#1 Approach a Man: You have feet, and you have a voice. Why can you walk into a conference meeting full of men, with confidence, but you can’t approach one? If you seek success then you must know that you won’t find it unless you get it yourself. So in other words, walk up to that attractive man at the bar or in the grocery store and start talking about how you love to cook salmon or grab a drink there after work.

#2 Call First: I know, I know this one can be a toughie, but if you don’t know by now, most men are not great communicators. They live by the 5 W’s: who, what, when, where and even sometimes why…if they care enough. In fact, with the current advancement of technology, if it were up to them, they’d probably ask you out through at text or even Voxer. Stop allowing the silence of your phone distract you from accomplishing important tasks and just call him already. FYI, you don’t have to ask him out, just talk.

#3 Ask Him Out: Okay, so I know I just said you don’t have to ask a man out, but I was referring to when you call him. When it comes to dating, you don’t’ want to put all of your eggs into one basket. Meaning that if you call a guy first, don’t call to ask him out, just call to say a flirtatious “hello”. But if you need a date to the company party, or feel like bike riding at the beach on Saturday, then why not be accompanied by the man you’re interested in?

#4 Help Pay: I remember the absurd amount of jitters I had before the first date with my ex-boyfriend. I didn’t have them because I lack in conversational skills, but because I am so stubborn that I didn’t want him fighting me on paying for part of the dinner. A lot of women feel that a man should court them for a month’s period of time i.e. pay for everything, but for men, it’s the little things that count. In other words, he’s not going to make you his girlfriend if he sees that you’re not helping chip in. If you aren’t doing it now, why would things change after you two become official? Either you’re going to enjoy a few free meals and end up sitting on your couch alone eating ice cream, or you will realize that a relationship AND dating is 50/50. Besides, what’s wrong with showing a man that you can hold your own?

#5 Have Sex: You ever hear the story of the woman that had a 3-month rule? She wouldn’t sleep with her boyfriend until they dated that long. To make a long story short, she finally slept with him and then he dumped her one week later. If you haven’t heard that story yet, stay tuned because you’ll be able to tell it. I am not condoning one night stands, that’s not dating anyways, but I am condoning that you toss the rules out the window and express your emotions at all times. Because just as easy as it was for that guy to dump you after four weeks of dating and great sex, it’s just as easy for him to do it after four months.

The next time you’re having lunch with your girlfriends, gossip about how you asked that CEO out while you were having a drink at the bar. And remember to mention how excited he was because he had wanted to ask you out but thought your costume jewelry was a wedding ring.

-Porsche Simpson

Single Girl in San Diego

In a letter to UC campus chancellors, Yudof announced that each of the 10 college campuses throughout the state will be responsible for drafting and executing the smoking ban. While UC campuses currently having on-campus smoking policies, Yudof’s most recent decision is the most far reaching and uniform policy to date. UCSD’s current rules state that individuals may not smoke indoors or within 25 feet of a building.

“As a national leader in healthcare and environmental practices, the University of California is ready to demonstrate leadership in reducing tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke by creating a smoke-free environment on all of our campuses,” Yudof wrote.

Each UC college chancellor is now responsible for forming a committee to create a specific policy for their campus that keeps their unique needs in mind, but effectively promotes the ban. Under the requirements for each policy, smoking, unregulated nicotine and smokeless tobacco products will be banned both indoors and outdoors, including parking lots, and private residential spaces. The policy will apply to students, faculty, and staff. The advertisement and sale of tobacco will also be considered a violation of the smoke-free policy.

Creating a smoke-free policy has been a hot topic at UC Campuses for the past several years, and many schools have already enacted partial, if not full, smoking bans. In fact, all UCSD Health Sciences and Medical Center campuses enacted a smoking ban in Fall 2009. In addition, UCSD operates California Smokers’ Helpline, a free service that helps residents quit smoking.

And while smokers may be up in arms over the ban, recent research finds that they are among the minority. In a Spring 2010 survey conducted by the American College Health Association, 67 percent of UCSD students were in favor of smoking regulations. According to Yudof’s letter, the UC system’s smoke-free policy will add them to the list of 586 other smoke-free college campuses throughout the nation. UCSD alone claims more than 29,000 students, and it is the hope of administrators that instituting the smoke-free policy will help all UC campuses stand out as health and environmental leaders.

Photo Credit: Flickr/Scott McLeod

The meat has been used as an additive in their patties and comes from the fatty parts of the cow most likely to harbor pathogens like salmonella and E.coli.  In order to make the meat available for human consumption it must be rinsed in a small amount of ammonia that mixes with the moisture in the meat to form ammonium hydroxide.  The compound makes the trimmings safe to eat.

“Pink slime” was approved by the Department of Agriculture in 2007 in an attempt to protect American meat from an outbreak of E.coli in Europe.  At the time it was also exempt from mandated increased testing for most ground beef based off the reasoning that the ammonia compound would kill any dangerous bacteria. However, the meat did not receive full support from everyone at the U.S.D.A.

Microbiologist Geral Zirnstein said in The Daily Mail, “I do not consider the stuff to be ground beef and I consider allowing it in ground beef to be a form of fraudulent labeling.” Reiterating the same level of disgust “pink slime” was most recently brought into the spotlight by British chef Jamie Oliver.  On an episode of his TV show, Food Revolution, the chef explained to families that the beef would normally go into dog food, but is rinsed in a compound normally found in household cleaners until it is suitable for humans.  Chef Oliver wasn’t the first to put the meat on blast.  The New York Times published an investigation on the product in 2009 in an article called “Safety of Beef Processing Method is Questioned” and the trimmings were a part of the documentary criticizing the food industry, Food Inc, in 2010.

As a result of the probing done by The New York Times and other sources there are reasons to believe that the product is less safe than meat of a higher grade that does not undergo the ammonium hydroxide treatment.  It has also been determined that using the scraps of meat that create “pink slime” only save about three cents per pound of ground beef.

In light of these findings and public disgust it is not surprising that McDonald’s has elected to remove it from the menu.  The company claims that the decision to drop the product did not stem from Jamie Oliver’s show. Reportedly they have stated that they stopped using the product months ago and discussed dropping it as far back as a year ago.

Todd Bacon, the Senior Director of Quality Systems for McDonald’s USA, said in an email that “the decision to discontinue its use was not related to any particular event, but rather a result of our efforts to align our standards for beef around the world.” Regardless of the reasoning McDonald’s regulars should be rejoicing in the fact that they are no longer consuming the highly unappetizing “pink slime” additive.

Click here to view the embedded video.

In many of the commercials there will be guest star celebrities as well in hopes of gaining more viewers and fans. One of these celebrity commercials is for the new Acura NSX ad that stars Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno. According to IB Times, “The actor [Jerry Seinfeld] wants nothing more than the vehicle and he launches an extensive campaign to bribe the man who has the top spot…” In this comedic ad the two compete against each other to be the first on the new Acura NSX’s waiting list.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Another celebrity commercial features Matthew Broderick for the Honda ad. In this ad Broderick performs in his past character role, Ferris Bueller. According to Mlive, Honda stated on its Youtube channel, “We cast Matthew Broderick as himself, skipping out on a day of acting work and living it up in his all-new CR-V. Relive movie history with Honda’s fresh twist and wonderful homage to this ’80s classic.” Honda has also hinted that they have hidden, within the commercial, over two-dozen references to the film. The company plans on airing the commercial near the beginning of the fourth quarter.

Another ad that will be playing during the game will be from H&M clothing store. The company plans on featuring David Beckham’s new bodywear line. And how will they be advertising that line? By putting Beckham in the commercial wearing nothing but his tattoos and skin-tight underwear. So while the men will be drooling over the scores of the game, the ladies have their chance to drool in front of the screen once the soccer star appears. H&M is not the only company featuring their stars in sexy clothing. For Kia’s Super Bowl commercial, they will have super model Adriana Lima wearing a very revealing suit.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Pepsi Max will be having their ad as a hilarious dig against Coke Zero. In the commercial a company truck driver working for Coke Zero has to stop at a mart for a drink and hopes to secrety buy a Pepsi MAX. Sadly nothing goes as planned for him in this hilarious ad.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Other companies that will be aired during the Super Bowl XLVI will include Toyota, Century 1^st, Coca Cola, Sketchers, Samsung, Acura, Audi, Best Buy, Cadillac, Chevy, Go Daddy, Hyundai,Priceline, Bridgestone, Doritos, Mars M&M and more.  Check them all out at the Super Bowl this weekend.

Videos courtesy of Acura, Honda, KiaMotorsAmerica, and Pepsi via Youtube.

When the lights go out in Viejas Stadium a spotlight finds indiviudual players as “We Game Time Ready” is played over the speakers, hardly audible over the cheering of Aztec faithful.

Any SDSU basketball fan is acutely aware of the rise that the team is on at the moment.  Undoubtedly the man we have to thank for this is Steve Fisher. The coach began working with SDSU in 1999 and has since become an integral part of Aztec history. At the time of being announced the 14th head coach in SDSU’s history he is quoted saying this:

“We have everything here that we need to be successful at the highest level. We have a great campus in a great city. The arena is as good of a facility as you can find. Our league is very good and getting better. Who wouldn’t want to play here?”-Steve Fisher

Since that moment Fisher has firmly rooted himself here in San Diego. With a 52-42 win over Wyoming Tuesday night, he has hit a new high for Aztec Men’s Basketball.  The game marked his 250th victory as the SDSU head coach.  This comes following a monumental season for the Aztecs in 2010-2011 during which the team stirred up rivalries and inspired an intense pride in students, alumni, and faculty. After being ranked 25th in preseason polls the team spent almost the entire season in the top ten and proceeded to win their first NCAA tournament game ever on their path to the Sweet Sixteen.  But it wasn’t just last season that Fisher started to shine.

The Aztecs first thirty win season  in school history was preceded by other notable acheivements.  Fisher has had seven twenty win seasons and six of them have been consecutive since 2006.  SDSU has also experienced six consecutive post season appearences and the first back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances since the 70s.  The two journeys to the NCAA Tournament which Fisher guided State to in 2010 and 2011 are added to the two previous episodes in 2002 and 2006.  He has also coached the team past the challenges surrounding the Mountain West Conference Regular Season Champions title twice and Mountain West Conference Tournament Champions title four times.

This year the Aztecs have numerous reasons to be proud of wearing red and black.  The team has a Mountain West Champion title, SDSU alum, Kawhi Leonard, was recruited as a shooting guard for the Spurs, and the student section is ranked in the top five student sections in the nation.  ”The Show” as the students have been deemed celebrate in Fisher just as much as the players that he coaches.  With ticket sales swelling and games selling out weeks in advance, now is as good a time as ever to experience a game, but come prepared to witness a crowd, a team, and a coach that bleed Aztec colors.

The SDSU Men’s Basketball team has their next home game scheduled for February 1st against Boise State at 7:00PM.

The study found that approximately 16 percent of adults in the county admitted to downing more than four drinks, four times a month. The recent study even went as far as breaking down tax brackets, finding that 20.2 percent of those earning more than $75,000 admitted to binge drinking while 16.2 percent of those making less than $25,000 went on benders. And yet, while wealthier adults were more prone to binging, those with lower incomes did so 4 times more than their wealthier counterparts. The report also found that most drunk drivers are binge drinkers

“Binge drinking is a serious problem that can contribute to injury and disease,” stated Susan Bower, Director of Alcohol and Drug Services for the County Health and Human Services Agency, in a County press release. “Binge drinking can lead to motor vehicle crashes, violence, alcohol dependence, and suicide.”

What’s more, binge drinking accounts for more than 40,000 of the 80,000 alcohol-related deaths each year in the country, and represents about 75 percent of the more than $200 billion in costs from alcohol abuse, the researchers reported.

Ursula Bauer, director of CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion says that “”This level of consumption usually leads to impairment and is strongly associated with alcohol-impaired driving, risky sexual behavior and interpersonal violence. “Over time, it can also increase the risk of serious health problems, including cancer, heart disease and liver failure.”

Dr. J.C. Garbutt, a professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, said eight drinks will produce intoxication and greatly increase the risk for accidents and can contribute to behavioral problems such as loss of emotional control and depression, he said.
“It is important that individuals know that excessive drinking can have both immediate and long-term negative consequences and it is in their interest to moderate their alcohol use.”

And then there was that real hot one, ya know, the one you introduced your parents to. Sucks that didn’t work out.

Today, there are prospectives but no one has been set in stone just yet. It’s always good to keep your options open.

Did I just describe your dating life? I probably did. Although your past relationships didn’t work out the way that you wanted, even if it ended horribly, you still kept your heart open and were able to find love again…or at least like. Hell, even if it was just lust, your emotions were still actively involved.

So, with that said, my answer to the question: Does a knight in shining armor exists? Is…yes it does.

In fact, I’ve met a few guys that made wonderful knights…just not to me. Of course I didn’t find that out until I opened my heart and put myself out there but honestly, that is the only way to live…especially when it comes to love.

While I was searching for the answer to this question, I had the urgency to ask my ex-boyfriend his opinion. I guess this situation is a little different than most because he is actually trying to be with me…again.

Obviously he said he wants to be my knight in shining armor (romantic) but there was another part of his response that stood out to me just a tad bit more, and that was, “If you let me be.”

Finding love, finding that knight is all about allowing yourself to be open and free with your heart. I am not saying to fall in love with the next person that lets you cut in line at Starbucks, although that is pretty sweet, but I am saying that you won’t be susceptible to finding a knight until you let down your guard and even allow that to be a possibility.

Now, as for my ex-boyfriend, at one point in my life I thought he was my knight, obviously that didn’t work out. Months have passed and he said that he’s changed, but if the relationship didn’t work out the first time…do you think second times the charm?

Until next week…

Single Girl in San Diego

-Porsche Simpson

Not everyone can afford pricey memberships to yoga studios or the steep cost of just one hour of personal training. Gyms can be a bit more affordable, but can also quickly become monotonous and boring. How long until running in place on a treadmill gets old and unappealing? For many, this happens quite awhile before fitness goals have been achieved, leaving frustration and resignation instead of a slimmer frame.

One option for the financially cautious person looking to get into better shape in a fun way is trail running. It’s become common knowledge that running is one of the most effective cardiovascular exercises, so if the idea is to get into shape as quickly and efficiently as possible, running is your best friend.

Besides the cost of a decent pair of running shoes, it’s also practically free and can be done anywhere. Unlike studio classes or training sessions, you need not adhere to anyone else’s schedule but your own.

San Diego happens to have a number of great places to run and though street running is also quite beneficial, the benefits of trail running are numerous. Sloping trails challenge the body more than consistent paths, beautiful scenery promises to keep boredom at bay, and the absence of cars in most cases makes for an uninterrupted running session. Trail running is a great way to clear your head and have some alone time in a beautiful place, but it can also be an opportunity to explore with a friend while getting fit.

Sunny skies are a great reason for San Diego locals to forgo pricey fitness plans and take to the outdoors. In a region of the world in which seasons are basically nonexistent, trail running is just as practical in the winter months as it is in the summer. One excellent way to keep motivated and achieve fitness goals is by signing up for a race (10k, half marathon, or even a full marathon for the ambitious) in the spring. Races along San Diego’s trails are plentiful and most self-training plans have you ready for a half marathon in as little as ten weeks and can be found online.

For the price of one month of membership to the average yoga studio, you can register for a race that will have you motivated for months to come. No one wants to waste $100 in registration fees, and every time your motivation flags the upcoming race can act as a reminder to keep going. Embrace trail running in 2012 for a budget-friendly, exciting, and effective fitness plan.

Photo by mrhayata via Flickr.

For the outdoorsy couple, why not take advantage of the stunning San Diego coast? If weather permits, pack a homemade picnic and head to the beach for a walk along the water followed by a sunset picnic dinner. If you don’t want to prepare your own food, check out grocery stores like Whole Foods, which offer a wide selection of healthy to-go options like sushi, burritos, sandwiches, and salads. This laid back plan is also budget friendly and offers an opportunity to spend some quality time bonding with your date in a relaxed atmosphere. If you don’t want to make a huge deal of the day and aren’t fond of Valentine’s clichés, keeping the night low-key is ideal.

For a more elaborate Valentine’s Day, enjoy a fancy dinner followed by a show. Head to a restaurant you’ve never tried before for a delicious meal. Always wanted to try tapas or Ethiopian food? Never strayed into the world of sushi? Trying something new with a partner is healthy for any relationship and keeps things fresh. Follow up the meal with a live performance or a movie that interests you both.

Maybe the relationship is new, therefore creating a lot of V-day anxiety. Suggest an evening out barhopping with a group of friends, as the group experience makes the night less intense and takes the pressure off a newly formed relationship. By heading out in a group, the one-on-one interaction is minimized while still allowing for time spent together. Check out bars and pubs if that’s your thing, or head to a club if dancing appeals to you.

Though V-Day is often associated with love and relationships, the single people of the world need not be left out. Show yourself some love by enjoying the day with unattached friends. Head to a local spa for a pick-me-up or hit up a yoga studio and get the endorphins pumping. Meet up with friends for a fancy dinner followed by drinks and dancing in the Gas Lamp district of downtown San Diego. Not interested in going out? Have a night-in with friends and host a movie marathon or have a dessert potluck. If you have the time, take the day to head to a neighborhood you’ve never experienced and explore the shopping there. It’s important to take time to appreciate yourself and have some fun, so why not make February 14 an excuse to enjoy the single life?

Valentine’s day is often put on a pedestal as a day that requires perfection, but with a little planning and personalization it can be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and refresh a relationship, enjoy the start of a new one, try something different, or have a day to yourself. While the element of surprise can be fun, don’t be afraid to openly communicate with your partner about his or her expectations so that everyone has an enjoyable day.

Photo by Ruben Bär via Flickr.

Mike has a way of explaining the most confusing topics in a way almost anyone can understand. His videos are straight to the point, interesting, and most importantly extremely helpful.

Recently Mike was featured on E&L TV (entertainment & lifestyle) which airs on the first Sunday of every month on San Diego’s CW Channel 6.

His most recent appearance on E&L TV show just took place this past December. Watch the video below as Mike answers one of the most common questions, “What is the difference between a will and a trust.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Walters and Ward is a Professional Corporation that specializes in California estate planning. As legal advisers, they have completed over 11,000 wills and trusts packages in their thirty years of business.  Their focus is about helping their clients avoid probate, reduce taxes and keep family matters private.

Walters has worked with over 22,000 clients, the majority of which have been in the area of wills and trusts. Few, if any attorneys can match his experience and expertise in this area.

The Walters & Ward Law Firm is proud to serve California residents with all their legal needs. Specializing in Estate Planning, Wills, Living Trusts, and Probate, the Firm can guide you through this delicate process and ensure you and your family is protected.

Walters & Ward also offers services in Bankruptcy, Corporate Law including Business Formations, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Business Disputes. The Firm’s strong network of expert attorneys throughout Southern California can help in any legal matter. If one of the Walters & Ward attorneys cannot help, they will find someone who can.

You can learn more at www.walterstrustinfo.com or at the free workshops they hold about estate planning, probate, wills and trusts. Free workshops will be held January 18,19, and 21 at the Comfort Inn & Suites in Chula Vista, sign up today by calling 1-877-779-9729 or by visiting their website listed above.  The best part — they never charge to speak with an attorney.

Don’t forget to tune in every Wednesday morning to hear Expert California Attorney Mike Walters’ free legal tips on the “San Diego Living” show on Channel 6.

Steve gave us some insight on the current market, and discussed the key elements to look out for when making decisions in investments. He illustrated how most people are handling current investments by waiting or hoping just to break even in an investment they made years ago.

Now that we are in the beginning of the year, we should have already started our taxes. Steve suggested that this process should have started in the last three months of the year, but most of us procrastinate and wait until the new year begins.  Watch Steve below as he gives advice on taxes and picks the brains of a few, well respected, advisors.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Steve Sexton is a financial expert who personalizes each individual’s financial plan on their unique circumstances and goals. He has over 15 years experience in the financial services industry and holds multiple licenses and designations including being a Better Business Bureau member and a National Ethics Bureau Member.

He has provided the Channel 6 San Diego Living show with financial tips throughout the month. We are thankful to be able to share his financial expertise with our readers as well.

If you would like to learn more about the financial planning provided by Sexton Advisory Group, securing your financial wealth and freedom, planning for your retirement or to reserve a spot in one of Sexton’s free financial workshops you can visit www.sextonadvisorygroup.com. Or you can reach the Sexton Advisory Group by contacting Steve Sexton at steve@sextonadvisorygroup.com or by calling 951-695-8810.

Their plan of attack? Strategically placing themselves EVERYWHERE!  Did you run out of toilet paper? You better believe that if you walk into your local grocery store you’re leaving the parking lot with more than milk, because they’re there. The Girl Scouts strategically place themselves right by the entrances and exits to ensure they attack all incoming and outgoing traffic. First they’ll greet you with their innocent smile, then slyly draw you in, and next thing you know it, you just left the grocery store with toilet paper and three boxes of thin mints.

Photo Courtesy of Kurt Magoon via flickr

You think you’re safe at work? Hah! There are parents, friends, and relatives supporting those little scouts. Only the adults are smarter, more business savvy. Instead of asking a few coworkers to support their scout, they setup a little stand. Their plan of attack is quite the site to see.

Does that picture on the left familiar? A poster board with a picture of that little Girl Scout, smiling, and just for a special added touch, they have their scout compose a little hand-written note. A note exemplifying her manners and ability to be polite, maybe she even drew a smiley face for special effects. But where is this poster board located? The break room of course. Where the hungry come hoping to find something to fulfill their craving, not realizing they just stepped into a cookie trap.  They enter the room, see that poster-board with the little girl smiling, a hand-written note, and bam! They’re instantly filling out that order form.

What’s even smarter is that you don’t want to look cheap by only ordering one box, because everyone can see who ordered what, so you order in quantity!

Remember those cookies are everywhere and those girls are taught early on to set goals and achieve them, and you my friend are their goal. Stay strong and stay committed to your New Year’s resolution, The Girl Scouts will be done selling those bad boys on March 11, 2012.

My guy friends call me a dude with boobs and my girlfriends envy me. Let me help you get what you want when it comes to relationships; or at least entertain you.

Besides, don’t we all deserve to find The One? Actually, does your knight in shining armor even exist?

What do you think?

Do you want to know what I think? Come back next week to find out my surprising answer.

Until then, check out my past articles as your Single Girl in San Diego

About Porsche Simpson: I was put on Earth to write. Sure, there is more to me, but these words are my passion. Entertainment news, celebrity interviews and of course dating/relationship columns is my fortay. I am here to entertain you. Enjoy.

Here are Susan’s Healthy Gourmet’s top 12 healthy eating tips for 2012:

JANUARY – Cook pasta with a mixture of half regular and half multi-grain pasta. Little by little, adjust the proportions in the favor of wheat pasta, with the end goal of eliminating the regular pasta; this will make the transition easier and less obvious. Whole grains may lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and obesity, leading to an overall healthier lifestyle.

FEBRUARY – Get the family involved with menu planning by letting them select dishes from a list of healthy recipes each week. When they choose the food and help prepare it, they are more open to eating new (and healthy) dishes.

MARCH – Drink lots of water. Make water the number one beverage in the home. Water has zero calories, zero sugar and is a great replacement for sugary or unhealthy drinks. Eliminate one non-water beverage (with the exception of milk) per grocery visit. This is not only a healthy choice, but also a cost-effective one.

APRIL – Puree fresh vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes and bell peppers, and add them to pasta sauces. This increases the health benefits, creates more flavor and adds vegetables to the meal without creating a drastic flavor or texture change.

MAY – Begin adding lean ground turkey to ground beef, aiming for a 50/50 combo. Similar to the pasta, slowly add more turkey until everyone in your family has adjusted.

JUNE – Introduce meatless Mondays. This will help with a household’s budget and waistline. Going vegetarian once a week is a minimal and often unnoticeable change that can make a big impact.

JULY – Add at least two colors, other than brown, to the dinner plate. Teaching children the colors of the rainbow and including those colors on the plate combines healthy education and good eating habits. Children can point out the colors and learn about a meal’s balance, nutrition and diversity at the same time.

AUGUST – Introduce a fruit dessert month as a healthy way to fulfill a sweet tooth.  Make fun fruit kebabs with a yogurt dip or try a yogurt parfait sundae with a small drizzle of chocolate syrup.

SEPTEMBER – Add one vegetable to a favorite meal such as macaroni and cheese. Steaming the vegetable before adding it to the meal makes it tender and enhances the flavor – most cooked vegetables taste better in meals as opposed to raw.

OCTOBER – Stay active and limit television time. It only takes about 30 minutes away from the television to make a difference. Even finding the energy to play with kids will not only keep families physically and mentally active, but also provide for a better night’s sleep, which is vital for growing bodies and weight loss in parents.

NOVEMBER – Institute a “pack your own lunch” month. Buy and prepare healthy snacks and then let everyone choose what they want to eat each day. If only healthy items are in the house, then only healthy items will be consumed.

DECEMBER – To offset holiday indulgences and watch the waistline during this busy time of year, strictly enforce portion control on all food consumed. This can easily be done at home by cooking just enough for each person to have one serving to eliminate the desire to overeat; or for those too busy to cook, subscribe to a healthy meal delivery service such as Susan’s Healthy Gourmet.

Susan’s Healthy Gourmet has been serving San Diego for over 10 years, creating and delivering healthy- customizable meals for homes and offices throughout Southern California.

“Eating right is not only good for the waistline, but also for mental well-being,” said Susan Johnson, founder and CEO of Susan’s Healthy Gourmet. “We have a passion for promoting healthy living in the community and are excited to offer Carissa’s commonsense tips as a great guide for getting – and staying – fit for the New Year.”

My reasoning for kicking off this column with an SNL reference is two-fold. One, I wanted to illustrate how close Christmas is and also make reference to a wonderfully hilarious SNL skit poking fun at Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos. The sketch mocked Tebow’s in-your-face religious belief as Jesus, played by Jason Sudekis, makes an appearance in the Broncos locker room following their victory over the Chicago Bears. Jesus explains how he has been only helping in the fourth quarter, much to Tebow’s chagrin, and reveals he actually prays to Bronco kicker Matt Prater who made a 59-yard game-tying field goal and a 51-yard game-winner in overtime to beat the Bears. Unfortunately Jesus says he won’t be able to help Denver beat “God’s nephew” Tom Brady and “the Devil” Bill Belichick.

In real life, the Patriots halted Tebow and the Bronco’s six-game winning streak and slowed the accelerating Tebow bandwagon. Despite the loss, the Broncos still reside in first place in the AFC West, ahead of the surging San Diego Chargers, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs. If they can bounce back to win at least one of their final two games, the Broncos should make the playoffs. Okay, that was my Tim Tebow update of the week and now onto the Holiday-edition of Twining’s Take on the week in sports.

Here come the the Clippers

On Saturday night in Los Angeles, Clippers fans are going to be going to bed humming a special rendition to “Here comes Santa Claus.” In addition to Santa arriving in L.A., championship-starved Clippers fans will be singing “here comes Chris Paul” instead as the former New Orleans Hornet and one of the most exciting players in the NBA makes his official, regular season debut against the Golden State Warriors Christmas night. The game features a bevy of stars in the Clippers’ Paul, Blake Griffin and Chauncey Billups and the Warriors’ trio of sharpshooters Stephen Curry, Monte Ellis and Klay Thompson.

That Paul is starting the season in Los Angeles is no surprise as he was originally traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. However, NBA Commissioner David Stern vetoed the trade because it wasn’t in the best “basketball interests of the league.” Keep in mind that the Hornets are owned by the NBA and openly being shopped to potential buyers. The vetoing of the trade eventually led to the departure of Lamar Odom from the Lakers, which did not go over so well with Kobe Bryant, who recently tore a ligament in his wrist and is facing a divorce that could cost him at least $75 million.

Paul’s arrival in Los Angles, which cost the Clippers an unprotected first-round draft pick and budding superstar Eric Gordon among others, instantly makes them NBA title contenders – a championship the franchise has never won. With all the unrest in the Laker organization, including a new head coach and the Stephen A. Smith-reported rumors that Kobe wanted a trade, it looks like Clipper fans can finally come out from under the stairs as they are no longer the ugly-stepchild to the Lakers.

Ohio State banned from Bowling

It was announced Tuesday that the NCAA Committee on Infractions had finished its investigation of the Ohio State University football program violations under former head coach Jim Tressell and levied it’s punishment. So what does five players selling merchandise for tattoos, knowingly playing ineligible players, and attempting to cover-up the whole thing get the Buckeyes? Well, apparently only a one-year bowl ban, a small reduction in scholarships (from 85 to 82) and probation through the 2014-2015 season. Considering USC received a two-year post-season ban and a major reduction in scholarships for Reggie Bush’s violations, the sentence for Ohio State is quite lenient considering the depth of the violations.

Last December, it was revealed that five players, including starting quarterback Terrell Pryor, had received free tattoos in exchange for nearly $14,000 total in OSU merchandise. The players were suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season but allowed to play in the big-money BCS Sugar Bowl. Looking back, all five of those players were ineligible yet not only did Ohio State allow them to play, but so did the NCAA. The investigation revealed that Tressell had known about the free tattoos as soon as April of 2010 and had done nothing about it, even going to lengths to prevent it from being discovered.

With new head coach Urban Meyer joining the program in 2012, he will only suffer through one year of a post-season ban. It should give him time to lay the groundwork to bring the Buckeyes back to National Title contenders without the pressure of an expected BCS Bowl. Now all he has to do is convince a group of seniors to buy in for one final season with no hope for post-season play and recruit freshman and transfers under the premise of building a perennial winner.

Hurd you needed some drugs

I’m not sure that is exactly what Sam Hurd would tell NFL players to which he sold drugs, a list reportedly in the double digits, but it would be funny if Hurd used his name as a homonym in a drug business that reportedly netted him nearly $2 million per month dealing on the streets of Chicago. Last Wednesday, Chicago Bear wide receiver Sam Hurd was arrested in Chicago on federal drug charges.

This wasn’t just a normal sting operations, this was classified as a major drug bust as Hurd was allegedly attempting to set up repeatedly shipments in drugs to fuel an operation that had him as one of the biggest drug dealers in Chicago.

At a meeting with an undercover agent posing as a dealer, Hurd said he wanted to buy “five to 10 kilograms of cocaine and 1,000 pounds of marijuana per week for distribution in the Chicago area,” at a cost of $25,000 per kilo and $450 per pound of weed. With a client list of NFL players reportedly in the double digits, it seems Hurd’s NFL career, which included a stint with the Dallas Cowboys before joining the Bears, was his sidejob.

AL West will have last laugh

As a Seattle sports fan, I find myself often defending my favorite teams and the divisions in which they play. With the Seahawks, the NFC West is largely considered one of the weaker divisions in the NFL. In Major League Baseball, the American League West often garners the same distinction. Not only did the division add a fifth team in the Houston Astros, but the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels added major superstars to a rather boring division.

Texas hasn’t quite signed Japanese pitching sensation Yu Darvish, but they did win the rights to negotiate a contract with him after paying a $52 million posting fee to the Nippon Ham Fighters. Now comes the hard part of negotiating a contract within the 30-day limit, but rarely does a Japanese player go unsigned.

The biggest splash of the off season was the 10-year deal signed by free agent third baseman Albert Pujols to join the Angels. On the heels of the $250+ million contract, the Angels shelled out millions more to sign free agent pitcher C.J. Wilson away from the Rangers. At one point both Pujols and Wilson were rumored to have been on their way to the Miami Marlins, but they ended up on the left coast instead. Now all I need is for my Mariner to sign Prince Fielder and all will be right in the AL West.

Colt McCoy Rule

It will most likely be known from here on out at the “Colt McCoy Rule,” similar to the rule change on hitting quarterbacks low, dubbed the “Tom Brady Rule,” but the NFL announced it was putting independent trainers in the booths at NFL games to help detect and quickly diagnose concussions. It’s the next step in the NFL’s concerted attempt to minimize the long-term damage due to concussions and prevent occurrences similar to what took place last week when Colt McCoy suffered a concussion but wasn’t checked out by trainers prior to reentering the game.

As criticized as this may be, it shows that the NFL is serious about changing the way injuries are handled during games. With the added pressure of winning involved, often times players don’t get the necessary treatment for fear it will cost the team the game. After San Diego Charger lineman Kris Dielman suffered a concussion-related seizure on the team flight home from New York, it was evident the NFL needed to act quickly. Dielman suffered a consussion against the Jets but went back in and finished the game without receiving proper medical attention on the sideline. After the seizure, Dielman’s NFL career is in jeopardy.

It won’t be know just how much of an impact these independent trainers will have until they force Packer quarterback Aaron Rogers from the game in the playoffs. Remember, Rogers had concussion problems last year that almost cost the Packers a playoff berth. I guess as long as nobody is able to skirt around this policy and severe head-related injuries go down, I’m all for the sacrifice of a championship for the long-term health of my team’s star quarterback.

Photos courtesy Keith Allison, WDPG Share and Evanna Chung via Flickr.

On Saturday, January 14, 2012, 53 contestants from the United States and the surrounding territories, will gather at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas to compete for the highly-coveted title of Miss America and forever join the elusive Miss America fraternity. The winner will be chosen by a panel of celebrity judges and will take the crown from current Miss America Teresa Scanlan.

Once again this year, one contestant will advance to the finals based strictly on fan voting. That means that if you are a California resident and want Miss California Noelle Freeman to advance to the finals and have an increased chance at winning you can vote for Freeman online or via text messaging.

The official rules for voting are, as follows, from MissAmerica.org:

Cast your vote via one (1) of the following two (2) methods:

• Vote for your favorite contestant’s video on www.missamerica.org/videocontest

OR

• Visit the “Video Contest” tab at Click here to read Voting Terms and Conditions.

It was in 1921 that Margaret Gorman won the first Miss America crown. Organized by Atlantic City businessman, the pageant began as an “Inner-City Beauty” contest after contestants were nominated through newspaper-organized photo popularity contests. Gorman won the beauty contest, for which the judging was based largely on general appearl in appearance, personality, conversations with the judges and interactions with the crowds. To further establish herself as “Miss America,” a title bestowed upon her in September 1922, Gorman also won the Golden Mermaid trophy given to “The Most Beautiful Bathing Girl in America.”

Now, ready to crown it’s 91st winner, the Miss America organization puts on a very similar show as what took place 90 years ago on the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk. Nationally-televised on ABC and taking place in the Las Vegas – the new Atlantic City, you might say – the Miss America pageant has transformed from a newspaper-promoted beauty pageant into a much-hyped and ballyhooed “scholarship pageant” for which the primary prizes for the winner and her runners-up are scholarships to the institution of her choice.

The 53 participants will be judged in five categories: personal interview, talent, lifestyle & fitness in swimsuit, evening wear and onstage question. Onstage question is often one of the most-scrutinized categories while swimsuit and evening wear are often the most popular. The seven judges on the panel, almost all of whom are affiliated with ABC, also fall into categories – seven of them.

From the Field of Beauty – Kris Jenner, mother of the Kardashians. From the Field of Performing Arts – Mark Ballas, dancer on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). From the Field of Talent – Teri Polo, actress from Meet the Parents franchise, star of current ABC sitcom. From the Field of Communications – Raul de Molina, host of Univision program “El Gordo y La Flaca.” From the Field of Star Power – Mike Fleiss, executive producer of “The Bachelor.” From the Field of Fitness – Chris Powell,”Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition” host. In addition to the ABC-heavy panel of judges, each co-host currently works for an ABC show. Brooke Burke from DWTS and Chris Harrison from The Bachelor and Bachelorette.

Current Miss America, Teresa Scanlan, won the crown as Miss Nebraska last January when she was only 17 years old. Scanlan became the youngest Miss America winner in 74 years. Contestests can range in age from 17 to 24 years old. Scanlan won the crown and, just as all contestents now do, chose a platform from which to research and educate. Scanlan’s researched eating disorders and discovered how rampant they are and now hopes to educate children and adults alike on the signs and risks.

With only three-and-a-half weeks left to vote before the 2012 pageant, vote now or risk letting it slip from your mind as you get lost in the sugar plums and fairies of Christmas and the late nights and celebrations of New Year’s. Award season is quickly approaching and what better way to help your state than by nominating its representative as a finalist in the 2012 Miss America pageant.

Photos courtesy AuburnAlumniOrganization and via Flickr.

Don’t let your next holiday gathering be ruined by the Debbie Downers of this world. Arm yourself before hand with these simple and effective tips from professional life coach and tough love author, Paula Renaye.

• Do not say anything negative.
• Dodge, distract and detour.
• Do not talk about yourself.
• Do not share your woes.
• Do your homework and become like Teflon.

The insightful author’s message is clear – think before you speak. Avoid any topics of conversation that you know might trigger a negative response in another person. Instead, simply change the subject. Deflect the current topic when necessary. Don’t share your own woes. That will only create a more depressing, downward spiral. According to Renaye, “if you hear yourself criticizing, judging or complaining, you’re part of the problem.”

Do your homework ahead of time and have a list of “happy questions” that you can refer to. Happy questions or topics could be a recent success that someone had, an uplifting story in the news or a funny joke or story that you recently heard. Encourage others to share their funny stories. Nothing is more contagious and positive than a good laugh.

In addition to trying to steer the topic of conversation, as Renaye suggests, it is also a good idea to avoid excessive alcohol. Alcohol tends to intensify a person’s emotions. If someone is a little down to begin with, that emotion will only be magnified with the consumption of alcohol.

Overcoming negativity in yourself or others can be a challenge. Seeing the glass as “half empty” as opposed to “half full” may be a way of life for some people. The best thing to do is remain cheerful and positive. Let your enthusiasm become contagious and your next holiday gathering will be a more joyful event.

Paula Renaye is a certified professional life coach as well as a motivational speaker. Renaye is author of the multi-award-winning personal development guide, The Hardline Self Help Handbook.

One of the biggest names rumored to be on the move was New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul. Paul is a free agent after this season and the small-market Hornets are worried they’ll lose him to free agency. If that happens, they will get nothing in return. Therefore, trading away Chris Paul is almost a necessity if the Hornets hope to contend for a playoff spot long-term.

If this was any other team in any other league, the execution of a trade for a superstar would not normally face a great amount of scrutiny. Just last year the Knicks sacrificed very little for superstar Carmello Anthony. Unfortunately, the Hornets are not like most teams in most leagues. The Hornets are owned by the NBA. Therefore any trade for Chris Paul must first be orchestrated by the NBA and then approved by the NBA. They are essentially playing both judge and jury.

The same day the new collective bargaining agreement was ratified and the lockout officially ended, the Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets and Hornets announced a massive three-team trade that included Paul landing with the Lakers, and Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom leaving the Lakers. The Hornets were to receive Odom, and Luis Scola and Kevin Martin from Houston as well as a 2012 first-round draft pick. Houston was getting Gasol. All that remained was the NBA approving the deal. Why wouldn’t they; oh right, that whole “lockout” issue.

One of the biggest sticking point for NBA owners was the ability for small-market team to keep superstars from fleeing to big markets. Cleveland had already lost Lebron to Miami and Phoenix lost Amare Stoudemire to the Knicks. The uproar over one of the NBA’s biggest young stars going from small-market Hornets to the star-heavy Lakers caused David Stern to veto the trade “for basketball reasons.”

It seemed as if Paul was destined to remain in New Orleans. But wait, a couple days later the teams resubmitted the trade to the league for approval with some minor, unreported tweaks. Before anything could be finalized, the Lakers pulled out of the trade and sent Odom to Dallas. Once again, Paul was stuck in the Bayou.

This morning, it was reported that the Hornets had reached an agreement with the other Los Angeles team, the Clippers. Once again, though, the seemingly-imminent trade quickly collapsed. The reason for the collapse you ask? The Clippers thought the asking price was too high. The NBA wanted young guard Eric Bledsoe included in the deal and was seeking a second first-round draft pick. The other players that would have been sent to the Hornets included center Chris Kaman and forward Al-Farouq Aminu.

Clearly the NBA’s ownership of the Hornets is causing a conflict of interest when it comes to running the team. Instead of doing what is “best” for the Hornets, which would really have been the original trade which included three All-Stars and a first-round pick, the NBA is more focused on what is “best” for the league.

It’s no secret that the NBA is trying to sell the Hornets. The reason they bought the team in the first-place was so the team didn’t fold under previous ownership and to allow time for potential buyers to come forward. Now, the NBA is trying to ensure that whoever owns the team next has a solid foundation in place with young stars. It’s almost like the owner of a casino counting cards at his own table to ensure certain people at the table win money.

Now that two Paul trades have been nixed, it seems more likely that Paul will play out the final year of his contract and then bolt during the off-season. What the Hornets hoped to avoid might actually occur – all thanks to the NBA’s intervention.

Since Paul clearly isn’t leaving the Hornets any time soon, here is the breakdown of the two trade the NBA has approved. With the exception of these two transactions, most of the action in the NBA during the past week were the signings of last year’s draft picks, including Kemba Walker, Derrick Williams, Jimmer Fredette and No.1 overall pick Kyrie Irving with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Lamar Odom from L.A. to Dallas

The defending league-champion Mavericks get last year’s Sixth Man of the Year and a second-round pick. The Lakers get a first-round pick and an $8.9 million trade exception.

Tyson Chandler from Dallas to New York

This was the trade that created the $8.9 million trade exception for the Mavericks which allowed them to get Odom. In this three-team trade, Dallas sent Chandler and the draft rights to Ahmad Nivins and Giorgos Printezis to the Knicks and gave the Washington Wizards a 2012 second-round pick. The Knicks sent forward Ronny Turiaf, cash considerations and a 2013 second-round pick to Washington as well as sending guard Andy Routins to Dallas. Washington only gave up a conditional future second-round pick to Dallas.

Photos courtesy Tulane Public Relations and Keith Allison via Flickr.

Alabama, idle while LSU played Georgia for the SEC Championship, hoped the voters would value the Crimson Tide’s lone loss to LSU more than Oklahoma State’s loss to unranked Iowa State on the road in Ames, Iowa. Meanwhile, Stanford head coach David Shaw had gone on the record to criticize the BCS and how “the computers” ultimately decide a team’s rank – the Cardinal’s only defeat was at the hands of the Pac-12 champion Oregon Ducks, who finished lower than Stanford in the most recent BCS standings.

When the dust settled and the bowl pairings had been announced, Stanford and Oklahoma State were left out of the national championship picture. Instead, the two teams will square off in the Fiesta Bowl to determine the best team outside the SEC.

LSU and Alabama, ranked Nos. 1 and 2 in the BCS, will face off in a rematch of the “Game of the Century” January 9 in New Orleans with a BCS Championship on the line. Prior to Sunday night’s selection show, it was unclear which team would be slotted No. 2 in the standings to face LSU. If Alabama beats LSU January 9, there still wouldn’t be a clear-cut No. 1 as LSU’s only loss would have been in the championship while Alabama’s sole loss came November 5.

Regardless, all six BCS matchups should provide nothing but excitement – assuming of course the championship is not another 9-6 overtime dud. Everybody likes a defensively battle, but nothing beats a shootout. And we should see more than enough shootouts once bowl season begins December 17.

The Best of the BCS

We’ve been here before, No. 1 LSU vs. No. 2 Alabama. The first time around, it was dubbed the Game of the Century, the second time around, expectations will be through the roof because the first game didn’t quite live up to expectations. ESPN College Gameday was there for the neutral-site battle between the top two teams in the BCS. The week leading up to the game, ESPN rolled out historical footage of games between No. 1 and No. 2 teams during the regular season. With both teams hailing from the same division of the same conference, not only was the top ranking in the country on the line, but so was the path to the SEC championship.

Although LSU and Alabama boasted the top two defenses in the country, they also featured top-15 scoring offenses and the game was expected to be similar to last year’s Iron Bowl. Facing eventual national champion Auburn, the 2010 Crimson Tide allowed Cam Newton to orchestrate a 24-point combeback for a 28-27 victory. As even as the 2011 LSU and Alabama squads were, the Game of the Century was to be an equally-high scoring affair.

Instead, the game was an offensive disaster. Neither team gained 300 yards of total offense and each committed two turnovers – both interceptions. Switching between kickers, Alabama missed three field goals and had another blocked. Overall, it was about as even as you could get. The teams were nearly identical in time of possession as well, with Alabama holding only a 12 second advantage, 30:06 to 29:54. But, something about a football game ending with a very baSeball-like 9-6 score left a bad taste in the mouth of many college football fans.

It was this disappointment that incited many “what-ifs” about how Oklahoma St.’s high-powered offense would far against LSU’s stingy defense. With discension over which team should really be ranked No. 2 in the country, this BCS Championship better deliver or the sports world will once again be left wondering “what if.”

The Rest of the BCS

Bowl season officially kicks off on December 17, but it is not until January 2 – when BCS games begin – that the big money is on the line. With all the talk about the championship, it is hard to overlook the fact that nearly ever other BCS matchup is gold. At least the BCS was able to get something right. The second day of the New Year features the first two BCS games – the Rose Bowl and the aforementioned Fiesta Bowl. Each game features two high scoring teams each with their own offensive weapon.

Running backs Montee Ball of Wisconsin and LaMichael James of Oregon are the centerpieces of each team’s offense. Ball rushed for 1759 yards and scored 38 total touchdowns, two shy of the NCAA record. His Wisconsin Badgers are the fourth-ranked scoring offense in the country at 44.6 points per game and just won the inaugural Big 10 championship game. James, on the other hand, would easily have surpassed Ball’s yardage total had he not missed time due to a dislocated elbow. Playing two fewer games than Ball, James racked up 1,646 rushing yards – nearly 150 per game – and scored 16 rushing touchdowns. The Ducks rank one spot ahead of Wisconsin with the third-ranked scoring offense at 46.2 points per game.

The 2011 Grandaddy of Them All could end as the highest-scoring Rose Bowl in history – neither team has scored fewer than 27 points per game this season. If there is any advantage in the numbers, it’s that Wisconsin boasts the 16th-best scoring defense at 17 points per game, a full touchdown better than Oregon’s 48th-ranked 23.6 points per game. The over/under for points scored in the Rose Bowl could be in the 60′s or 70′s. If that is the case, then total points scored in the Rose and Fiesta Bowl could approach 150.

College football fans are not the only people who will be watching the Fiesta Bowl with a keen eye. The crowd is sure to feature many NFL scouts and coaches preparing for April’s NFL Draft. Both teams feature Heisman Trophy finalists in Stanford’s Andrew Luck and Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden. Luck was the preseason favorite and is the focus of the ‘Suck for Luck’ campaign in the NFL to be the worst team and secure the first overall draft pick. Weeden is the 28-year-old former minor league baseball prospect and now fifth-year senior with a cannon for an arm. Weeden quickly claimed a spot among college football’s elite before the Cowboys lost in Ames and his Heisman campaign slowed.

Other than the two BCS games, January 2 features four non-BCS bowl games, including South Carolina vs. Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl, Houston vs. Penn State in the TicketCity Bowl and Urban Meyer’s former team, Florida, against his future team, Ohio State, in the Taxslayer.com Gator Bowl. On January 3 and 4, the BCS owns the spotlight with the Sugar Bowl and Orange Bowl before a four-day BCS hiatus.

The Sugar Bowl includes two BCS at-large bids, including the ACC’s first-ever at-large selection in Virginia Tech. The No. 11 Hokies’ opponent, No. 13 Michigan received an at-large big after first-year head coach Brady Hoke led the Wolverines to a 10-2 record and second-place finish in the Big 10′s Legends Division. Virginia Tech won the ACC’s Coastal Division but was blown out by Clemson in the ACC championship – the Hokies second loss to Clemson this year.

The win over Virginia Tech and the ACC championship netted Clemson its first appearance in the Orange Bowl since 1981. The Tigers face off against Big East champion West Virginia who finished the season on a three-game winning streak but is the lowest-ranked team in a BCS game. Clemson is a young team that excelled early in the season. After beating Troy and Wofford to start 2-0, the Tigers upset No. 21 Auburn, No. 11., Florida State and No. 11 Virginia Tech three weeks in a row. They ascended as high as fifth-overall after an 8-0 start but then lost 31-17 at Georgia Tech and lost three-of-four to close the season before Saturday’s ACC Championship.

West Virginia is the least-exciting of the 10 teams playing in BCS games. The Mountaineers won the Big East on a tie-breaker after finishing tied with both Cincinnati and Louisville at 5-2 in conference play. They boast the nation’s 19th-ranked scoring offense at 34.9 points per game but played only two ranked teams all season, losing to No. 2 LSU 47-21 September 24 and beating No. 23 Cincinnati 24-21 November 12. For a champion from a BCS conference, they are ranked a disappointing 23rd in the most recent standings.

Non-BCS Bowl Schedule

I’ll refrain from providing an in-depth breakdown of all 30 non-BCS bowls and instead point out some interesting tidbits and highlighting a couple teams to watch. Bowl Season kicks off December 17 with three Saturday matchups. Two of the Mountain West’s five teams play the first day – Wyoming in the New Mexico Bowl and San Diego State in the New Orleans Bowl. Utah State makes its second bowl berth in as many season, the first time in school history they’ve done so, in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.

Two other teams from the Mountain West, BCS hopefuls No. 18 TCU and No. 7 Boise State play on back-to-back days December 21 and 21 in the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl and the Maaco Bowl Las Vegas, respectively. TCU takes on Louisian Tech in what could be quite the lopsided matchup. The very next day, another Mountain West team could win in a blowout with the Broncos take on Arizona State. The Sun Devils just fired head coach Dennis Erickson after a disappointing 6-6 season while the Broncos will be frustrated by being left out of the BCS picture after a loss to TCU, despite the No. 7 ranking.

Potential Heisman winner Robert Griffin III, considered the fastest man to ever play quarterback and who boldly declared “I think Baylor just won its first Heisman” after a victory Saturday, takes on the struggling Washington Huskies in the Valero Alamo Bowl. The Huskies enter the game having lost three of four while Baylor gets to play a “neutral” game less than four hours from campus.

During the four-day BCS hiatus between the Orange Bowl and the BCS Championship, college football fans have only one day off, January 5. Then, in the leadup to the championship, No. 6 Arkansas takes on No. 8 Kansas State in the AT&T Cotton Bowl January 6, Pittsburgh plays SMU in the BBVA Compass Bowl January 7 and high-scoring Northern Illinois faces Arkansas State in the GoDaddy.com Bowl January 8.

Check out the full bowl schedule here.

Photos courtesy avinashkunnath, Monica’s Dad, severea and BaylorFans.com via Flickr

1.       Use your salad plate for your meal. This will naturally cut at least 200 calories. You can fill your plate since it’s a smaller size. Since humans are visual eaters, you will feel that this ‘full’ plate will fill you up and satisfy you. But this doesn’t imply continuously filling up your small plate!

2.       Walk every day. Ensuring you do this physical activity will burn holiday calories. Not only will you be burning those cookies away, but it will give you chance to catch-up with your family and friends this holiday season.

3.       Focus on the social aspect of the holidays instead of the food. This seems though, but if you are more excited about seeing your family and friends than you are about eating Grandma’s cookie plate, you will not eat as much since that is not the focus.

4.       Eat whatever you choose in moderation. Don’t restrict yourself from your favorite holiday foods. That is a set up for a binge. Your will power to not eat these foods will only last a certain length of time and then you will switch into rationalization mode. Rationalizing food typically leads to over indulgence. So eat just a small amount of whatever you want and enjoy every bite!

5.       Wear form-fitting clothes during the holidays to be a constant motivator to make good food decisions and maintain your figure. If you feel good in your little black dress, you will not be as tempted to eat everything on the dessert tray and bust the zipper!

The San Diego Entertainer thanks Kelly Stallings for her tips on eating and enjoying this Christmas! Kelly Stallings is a licensed psychotherapist, speaker and author of Life is Mental: Think Thin to Live Thin, the simple solution for addressing the mental aspect of weight loss.  She has more than 14 years of experience working with people to create significant changes in their life including increased overall physical health by training them on the appropriate uses of cognitive behavioral techniques for healthy living. Kelly’s book and training has been featured on several television news shows, radio shows and popular magazines. She is a dynamic speaker who quickly engages the audience with her warm bubbly ‘no fluff’ personality.

Photo from @tracyhunter via Flikr

Today’s topic – taxes. This is the time of year where most people don’t look at their taxes and they should. Steve offers a few suggests along questions to ask yourself.

1. If you’re a business owner taking a bonus, taking it December 01 or January 01 can make a big difference in your taxes.

2. If you’re a passive real estate investor, you know a deduction can go away, is it time to take those additional expenses so you can take those deductions and pay less in taxes?

3. If you have mutual funds or a stock portfolio this is the time to take a look at where your turnover cost would be with a mutual fund portfolio, and maybe sell some of those losers to offset the winners so you don’t pay as much or have that money flow onto your tax return.

These are all helpful tips Steve provides. He then discusses the issue with unemployment, information regarding insider trading, and other useful financial information.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Steve Sexton is a financial expert who personalizes each individual’s financial plan on their unique circumstances and goals. He has over 15 years experience in the financial services industry and holds multiple licenses and designations including being a Better Business Bureau member and a National Ethics Bureau Member.

If you would like to learn more about the financial planning provided by Sexton Advisory Group, securing your financial wealth and freedom, planning for your retirement or to reserve a spot in one of Sexton’s free financial workshops you can visit www.sextonadvisorygroup.com. Or you can reach the Sexton Advisory Group by contacting Steve Sexton at steve@sextonadvisorygroup.com or by calling 951-695-8810.

Don’t forget to watch Steve Sexton on the Channel 6 San Diego Living on Tuesdays for more financial tips.

Now, 62 years later, Paterno is out at Penn State and the sports world has drastically changed. Since the Penn State scandal is something everybody is talking about this week I want to keep this week’s Twining’s Take on the week in sports scandal-free. Obviously Penn state is the hot topic, but I’d like to touch six other sports stories from the past two weeks.

David Testo comes out

I just read this yesterday, so it’s pretty fresh news. David Testo, professional soccer player formerly of the Montreal Impact and the Vancouver Whitecaps publicly announced he is gay. The 30-year-old midfielder, who is currently not with a team, told CBC Radio-Canada that teammates knew he was gay and accepted him, but he was afraid to go public until now.

“It’s like carrying around a secret, you know, and carrying around luggage and just never being allowed to be yourself,” Testo told CBC.

This is an awesome story and shows that we are one step closer to a major, mainstream American athlete coming out of the closet. Testo says he feels more confident and mature and now is ready to speak openly. Wikipedia has a list, I have no idea how complete, of openly gay professional athletes. Hopefully Testo’s admission can help others confidently join that list.

Wilson Ramos kidnapped

Since the previous topic of discussion was about someone coming out of the closet, figuratively, let’s turn the focus to someone who might actually be locked in a closet. Okay, that was a terrible joke and this is a terrible news story. On Wednesday evening, Washington Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos, 24, was kidnapped at gunpoint from his home in Venezuela. While it’s shocking to think of an MLB player being kidnapped, kidnappings in Venezuela are not that uncommon. In fact, kidnappers in Venezuela are like Pirates in Somalia, it’s basically a very illegal business.

Ramos’ abduction, by four armed gunmen while he was outside his home with his brother and father, is the first known kidnapping of a major leaguer in a country that has scores of players on big league rosters, and it has brought a renewed focus on rising violent crime in Venezuela.

It is recommended that MLB players have a security detail with them to prevent these such kidnappings from happening. And while it is good that Ramos is alive and healthy, for the time being, it’s disappointing to think that foreign-born players cannot even travel back to their home countries without fearing for their lives. This is also tough news for the Nationals for whom the young catcher was supposed to be a centerpiece in a youth movement that also includes pitcher Stephen Strasburg and hotshot outfielder Bryce Harper.

No fine for wardrobe malfunction

The term “wardrobe malfunction” became a household phrase following the halftime show at the 2004 Super Bowl. At this point, everybody should know what took place at the end of Justin Timberlake’s performance of ‘Rock Your Body,’ but if you don’t let me fill you in. When Timberlake sang the final lyrics – “I’m gonna have you naked by the end of this song,” – he ripped off Jackson’s bustier, briefly exposing her breast and a silver sunburst “shield” covering her nipple.

Now, I think we can all agree that the exposure of Jackson’s nipple was a planned act between the two singers. Regardless whether it was planned or not, CBS was fined $550,000 for the display of nudity. Well, finally, a federal appeals court upheld its finding that the Federal Communications Commissions acted improperly in fining CBS. This ends a 7-year court battle over half-a-second of nudity.

How much money do you think CBS or the FCC wasted trying to overturn or uphold a $550,000 fine. I know that amount is just more than half a million, but in the 7 years since I almost guarantee more than $1 million was spent in court and attorney fees. Since this is clearly more about principle and less about money I hope the money and time put into this battle was all worth it.

Can’t Spell Elite without Eli

Before the season started, Eli Manning’s seventh in the NFL, the New York Giants quarterback said he was worthy of being listed, along with Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, as one of the elite quarterbacks in the league. Many scoffed at that notion because Eli has never been seen as a dominant quarterback, his victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII has been considered lucky or a fluke, and he’s not even the best quarterback in his family.

But after the youngest Manning and his Giants went head-to-head with Brady and the Patriots in Foxborough and came out victorious, I think it’s time we start looking at Eli Manning a little differently. Since taking over as the Giants starter during his rookie year, Manning has not missed a start. He’s won 66 games and the Giants have never had a record worse than 8-8. Since being named Super Bowl MVP, Manning has completed better than 60 percent of his passes and tossed at least 20 touchdowns in each of the three season since/ He’s on pace to do the same this season.

Last Sunday, after Brady had led his Patriots on a go-ahead touchdown drive, capped off by a touchdown pass to tight end Rob Gronkowski with a little less than two minutes to play, Manning never flinched. He took his Giants right down the field and connected with his tight end, Jake Ballard, for the game-winning score. What makes the Giants’ 24-20 victory so remarkable is that the Patriots had won 20-consecutive regular-season home games and Brady, who missed a full season due to injury, had won 31-straight at home.

Kelly “Champion” Slater

On this Veteran’s Day, which originally began as Armistice Day which commemorated the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, I wanted to pay tribute to 39-year-old Kelly Slater who won his 11th Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Title last Sunday. Slater, who turns 40 in February, became the oldest surfer to win the title for which he was also the youngest to win. Slater won the first of his 11 world Championships when he was only 18 years old. Sunday, Slater advanced out of the fourth round at the Rip Curl Pro Search in San Francisco and had finally built an insurmountable points lead to secure the title …for the second time in a week.

The previous Wednesday, November 2, Slater was incorrectly announced as the World Champion due to a points calculation error. The error resulted in the resignation of ASP CEO Brodie Carr, but didn’t result in a new champion. Sunday, in ironic fashion, Slater beat two surfers young enough to be his kids in the fourth round to secure the title.

“I’m stoked. I was upset about it at first, but I also thought it was really funny,” said Slater about the miscalculation after officially winning. “”I’m going against two kids that could literally be my kids, and those kids throw gnarly turns.”

The Passing of Smokin’ Joe Frazier

Smokin’ Joe Frazier was a three-time Ring Magazine Boxer of the Year, he became the first boxer to beat Muhammad Ali in the “Fight of the Century” at Madison Square Garden and Howard Cosell’s “Down goes Frazier” from a 1973 fight between Frazier and George Foreman is one of the most iconic sports calls ever. At 67 years old, after a brief fight with liver cancer, Joe Frazier died last Monday night.

Frazier was one of history’s best boxers. Forever linked with Ali, he often lived in the shadow of his top competitor. Since the departure of Lennox Lewis, Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield from the heavyweight scene, boxing has seen few full-fleged rivalries. None, though, rivals what Frazier and Ali had during the 1970′s.

Frazier’s only victory over Ali came in their first fight in 1971. The fight went into the 15th and final round before Smokin’ Joe finally knocked Ali to the mat, eventually retaining his World Heavyweight Title. The boxing world had to wait three years for the rematch, once again at Madison Square Garden, but not nearly as hyped. Ali won to pull even in the rivalry and a little more than a year later, the two met for the third and final time on a humid morning in the Philippines.

The Thrilla in Manila, one of the most famous fights ever, was stopped after the 14th round with both fighters bloody, bruised and beaten. Ali would later say it was the closest to dying that he’s ever been and in a brief post-fight interview said “Joe Frazier, I’ll tell the world right now, brings out the best in me. I’m gonna tell ya, that’s one helluva man, and God bless him.” With Frazier’s passing on Monday, I’m sure many are saying the same thing. He was a helluva man and may he rest in peace.

Photos courtesy Pirma Canada, lassy88 and cliff1066 via Flickr.

Today’s topic – taxes. We either dread this time of the year or enthusiastically file our taxes in hopes of a generous tax return, or just a tax return for that matter. Whichever side you are on it is important to review your taxes early to eliminate any unpleasant surprises. Most people wait until it is too late in the year to really manage their financial health when it comes to taxes, when in fact the best time to check up on your tax situation are during the last two months (November & December) of the year.

When that time approaches, it is critical to meet with your CPA and Financial Advisor to review key issues. All situations vary, as we all do not invest in the same thing. For those who invest in real estate, deductions may vary. If you invest in stocks and mutual funds, you need to review your losses and gains, and discuss strategies to address possible taxes. For business owners, make sure to create a complete list of questions to ask your CPA and Financial Advisor, questions such as: what is the projected profit? I have yearly bonuses, is 12/31 or 1/01 better? Whatever it is you invest in make sure you ask the right questions.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Steve Sexton is a financial expert who personalizes each individual’s financial plan on their unique circumstances and goals. He has over 15 years experience in the financial services industry and holds multiple licenses and designations including being a Better Business Bureau member and a National Ethics Bureau Member.

If you would like to learn more about the financial planning provided by Sexton Advisory Group, securing your financial wealth and freedom, planning for your retirement or to reserve a spot in one of Sexton’s free financial workshops you can visit www.sextonadvisorygroup.com. Or you can reach the Sexton Advisory Group by contacting Steve Sexton at steve@sextonadvisorygroup.com or by calling 951-695-8810.

Don’t forget to watch Steve Sexton on the Channel 6 San Diego Living on Tuesdays for more financial tips.

On Tuesday night, police searched Mayfield’s house in Catawba, North Carolina based on an anonymous tip that he was in possession of stolen goods. Not only did they find nearly $100,000 worth of items reported stolen from two trucking companies in Lincolnton, N.C., the police also found forty firearms and 1.5 grams of methamphetamine.

Mayfield was charged with felony possession of methamphetamine, and more charges are likely to follow as detectives from Lincoln County plan to charge him with possession of stolen goods.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office said Mayfield had heavy equipment parts, welders and welding accessories, truck parts, an engraving machine and other items that were apparently reported stolen from two businesses in late 2010 and early 2011.

Of course Mayfield denies all charges as his attorney says the search was conducted based on “baseless allegations by an unreliable source.” Unreliable or not, the anonymous tipster was right in its claim that stolen goods were on Mayfield’s property.

“Mr. Mayfield has no knowledge of either stolen property or methamphetamine being present on his property and denies the accusation that he was in possession of methamphetamine or any other illegal drug and he denies any suggestion that he knowingly received or possessed stolen property,” said Daniel Marino, a Washington, D.C.-based attorney.

We’ve heard this “it’s all a fabrication” claim from Mayfield before. It was early-May in 2009 when Mayfield tested positive for meth during a pre-race drug test. He was suspended indefinitely, by both NASCAR and his team owner, even though he claimed the test stemmed from a combination of Adderall and the over-the-countery allergy medication Claritin.

It’s unclear whether Mayfield claims the 1.5 grams of meth found on his property are also just a mix of Adderall and Claritin.

Two months after the positive test, a federal judge temporarily lifted the suspension. Unfortunately, Mayfield failed a random drug test again on July 6 and on July 24 a federal appeals court reinstated the suspension.

During the battle over whether Mayfield should or should not be suspended, NASCAR filed an affadavit which featured statements from Mayfield’s step-mom that Mayfield’s drug habit began back in 1998, when she used to see him cook up his own meth.

My friends over at thestir.cafemom.com have a great breakdown of what went down in 2009.

It all started when Mayfield failed a random drug test. And then another random drug test. And then his stepmother Lisa filed an affidavit saying that Jeremy not only used meth regularly, he cooked it himself. Mayfield responded by calling her a “whore” who “shot and killed” his dad (whose death was supposedly a suicide). Then Lisa flipped out and showed up drunk at Mayfield’s house, where she punched one of his employees and kicked his wife in the crotch.

It is clear Mayfield is once again in a battle to clear his name. Responding to comments on twitter, Mayfield’s wife, Shana, tweeted: “Such a shady deal. Makes no sense. … I as confused as u r.”

As far as the stolen goods, all were reported stolen by two trucking companies: Lee Boy Inc. and Larry Grant Inc.

Tom Weese, of Lee Family Real Estate, LTD, told WBTV that roughly $65,000 worth of items were stolen from his business last year. He recovered most of his goods Tuesday night after Mayfield’s arrest.

The investigation is still ongoing, and Weese believes there will be more arrests to come.

“It wouldn’t even be possible for one man to conduct an operation like this,” he said. “It’s unbelievable that the operations they had going on down there.”

Currently, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are running the 40 firearms, which range from antique guns to high-powered rifles, through its gun tracing system to determine if any were reported stolen.

After fighting with NASCAR during the past 30 months, now Mayfield has to battle the state of North Carolina in an attempt to clear his name of all charges. These latest transgressions, whether true or not, clearly do not help that cause.

Photo courtesy Darryl W. Moran Photography via Flickr.