BestAdvice Family

Consumers across America are experiencing sticker shock with this month's electrical bill. While kilowatt rates vary by vendor, a new national increase is being seen across the country.

With the enactment of the Clear Air Interstate Rule from the Environmental Protection Agency, 31 states are required to substantially reduce power-plant emissions. Specifically, power plants must reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by a whopping 71 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions by 52 percent.

Coal is both the most common energy source and the primary cause of both emissions. As a result, this new regulation is expected to cost coal power plants billions of dollars for retrofitting or in facility replacements. Naturally, this expense is being passed on to consumers. Short of going "off the grid," what's a customer to do? Here are 12 tips to help reduce your kilowatt usage. Read more

O.k. guys, it's your day too! Men are embracing the art grooming in record numbers. Why not make a little effort by following these guidelines to achieve your ultimate look.

Anti-Shine
Did you know that men have 20% oilier skin? With outdoor and destination weddings being the latest trend, you don't want to look sweaty or nervous. Use an undetectable anti-shine product with an SPF. A little skin toned concealer wouldn’t hurt either if you have problem areas.

Botox
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men's anti-aging and Botox injections are up 41% since 2002. Plan at least a week in advance and know the work of the doctor. It's quick and painless with immediate results. If you prefer to erase the years away without the needle, invest in a quality anti-aging lotion or cream that has retinol or lactic acids.Read more

The Federal Trade Commission recently issued its annual report of consumer complaints, and for the seventh year in a row, identity theft tops the list, accounting for 36 percent of complaints received in 2006. To help combat this problem, renowned identity-theft expert Frank W. Abagnale is teaming up with uni-ball pens, to provide helpful tips to safeguard identities during the 2007 tax season – and all year long. Read more

Holiday shopping can be not only stressful but a daunting task. Each year shoppers venture into crowded malls, battle busy parking lots and spend valuable time waiting in line. Many are turning to online shopping this year to save time, money and to cut down on their frustration.

A record 114 million people will make purchases online this holiday season with sales totaling $32 billion, according to Jupiter Research. Like Black Friday for traditional retailers, Cyber Monday – the Monday after Thanksgiving – is the official kick-off of the online holiday shopping season. Read more