AP9 Articles

HomeWorks PlusSM Offers Tips for Christmas Tree Decorating

Large, medium or small, with a thousand lights or a few prominent ornaments, down the hallway or in a corner of the family room … the Christmas tree is a must for American families, and — finally — the time to decorate a new one has come! Home Works Plus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, reports that millions of Americans will keep the tradition alive by making their Christmas trees look like a work of art.

The Christmas tree has a long association with Christianity, tracing its roots back to the 16th century in Europe. Germany is the country where many customs, songs, images of Santa, pine trees adorned with ornaments and other Christmas traditions come from. In the hundreds of years since then, the Christmas tree has become more than a religious symbol, evolving into an emblem of a time of the year to celebrate love and family union. HomeWorksPlus members use their benefits to save on decorative purchases for the tree and all the areas of the home that need a touch of the holiday spirit.

From the ornaments to the lights to every branch of the tree, Home Works Plus has a few ideas about Christmas tree decoration:

Family decision. It’s up to the family members to choose a specific theme or color, or simply to use their ornaments as family heirlooms and try to display them every year in a different, more creative way. No matter how the family approaches tree decorating, the goal is to achieve is a unique piece that reflects the family’s personality.

The green trend. In this age of environmental awareness, many families are opting for an organic tree. To be part of this trend, the first step is to purchase the tree at a reputable farm (one that doesn’t use pesticides and plants different types of trees). The second step is to purchase or make nature-friendly decorations. Use LED lights, which don’t present the fire risk of conventional bulbs and also run on about a tenth of the energy. There’s a great variety of colors and shapes in the market, all of which can be complemented with biodegradable ornaments made at home using recyclable paper and other materials.

The single-color tree. The key to a beautiful single-tone tree is to prepare beforehand. Once the color’s been selected, the challenge is to get the ornaments in different shades, shapes and sizes. Begin with a single-tone string of lights as the base of the design, and build the rest from there. Pick only three or four kinds of ornaments, so the tree looks elegant and fun but not overstuffed.

A rainbow of colors. A multi-colored tree can easily look messy if ornaments and lights are not carefully selected, notes HomeWorksPlus. Follow a pattern, and pick at least one element that’s going to bring unity to the design, like the same color ribbon to tie the items on the tree. Begin by wrapping the lights (all blue, red or green is a nice way to add color and break away from tradition) from top to bottom. Next, place larger ornaments first, evenly around all the branches, and continue randomly adding the others in decreasing size.

Ornaments. When it comes to Christmas tree ornaments, less is often more. Whatever the theme of the tree, be sure to keep some kind of pattern with the chosen ornaments. Beware of using too many garlands or too much tinsel, though; it’s okay if the tree looks “snowy,” but too much of it might create an “after a storm” look.

Top and bottom of the tree. This is the place where the originality of the family can really be showcased. Cap the tree off with a ceramic or a craft made by one of the kids, or pick something totally different from the traditional angel or star. You can use the same motif for the tree skirt, an item that’s often forgotten but is equally important as the other decorative elements.

HomeWorks Plus members can access a variety of savings on home and Christmas decorating needs as well as gardening and entertainment interests. When it comes to finding elements for decorating, improving the house or creating a stunning look for a party or gathering, members can always count on HomeWorksPlus.

HomeWorks Plus Offers Tips on Turning Peter Pumpkin into Jack-o’-Lantern, Safely and Effectively

As the Halloween witching hour approaches, it’s time to start drawing up your favorite jack-o’-lantern decorations, reports HomeWorks Plus^SM, a leading discount shopping program. And you’ll want to act soon, before your neighbors claim all the best faces.

Acting soon should not be confused with acting hastily, of course. You’ll probably be working with a sharp knife, so you want to be certain that the only cuts you make are measured incisions designed to turn your pumpkin into the happy, strange, terrifying, or mysterious jack-o’-lantern look of your choice. After all, Halloween is a lot more fun when the bandages you wear are part of a costume rather than a dressing prescribed by a doctor.

To help you keep your jack-o’-lantern looking and performing at its best this Halloween season, HomeWorks Plus offers the following suggestions:

-- Go big or stay home. Larger pumpkins are the easiest kind to carve. They also have more innards, of course, but if you’re into healthy snacks, that just means you’ll have more pumpkin seeds to toast.

-- Top it off with an inverted pyramid. When you make your initial cuts at the top of the pumpkin, try to cut into the pumpkin, around the stem, at a 45-degree inward angle. That way, when you replace the cut-out lid, it’ll stay on top of the pumpkin rather than dropping straight into it.

-- Use a cheat sheet. There was only one Michelangelo, and he’s been gone a long time now. If you want to carve an eye-catching pumpkin, try using tracing paper to copy a design from a book or a printout of an Internet page. Tape the paper to the face of the pumpkin, and retrace the face with lines deep enough to make impressions on the pumpkin. Once the lines are in place, all you have to do is follow them with your carving knife.

-- Give ol’ Jack a facial. To preserve that “fresh as a devil” look, immerse your carved-up pumpkin in a solution of one teaspoon of bleach to one gallon of water. Let it dry completely, then apply either petroleum jelly or vegetable oil to all of the inside and outside surfaces, including the cut-out portions. Repeat as needed throughout the season.

-- Let the bottom fall out. Cutting off the bottom of your pumpkin can create greater stability (particularly for wobbly-bottomed pumpkins). With the ability to place the pumpkin over a stable setting, you’ll also have greater control of the candle. For increased fire safety, consider using a small, battery-powered light instead of a candle.

-- Try some common scents. Why just decorate when you can invigorate? To turn your jack-o’-lantern into an air freshener, sprinkle the underside of the lid with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and other aromatic favorites.

A successful Halloween includes cool costumes, tasty treats and, ideally, an absence of unanticipated tricks, but it all starts with a jazzy jack-o’-lantern. To get your season off to a rousing start, keep in mind these tips from HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Says, “A Healthy Plant Is a Happy One”

AP9 HomeWorks Plus, a leading membership discount program from Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, gives its members tricks and tips on how to keep houseplants healthy and happy. It doesn’t take a green thumb to keep plants flourishing, but it does take patience and common sense.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus reminds members that although every plant is slightly different, following some general rules of thumb — not necessarily green ones — can lead to great-looking plants. AP9 HomeWorks Plus suggests the following tips for keeping indoor plants strong, healthy and thriving:

-- Reverse the rot. Most plants need a lot of moisture, so it’s a good idea to set the plant in a dish of water periodically. This way, it can take water up through the soil and roots. This is most important to prevent rotting in the leaves and stems.

-- Less is more. Don’t over-water. Most plants need time to dry out between waterings. Just think of it as moderation for a plant.

-- There’s no place like home. When possible, create an environment for a plant that most closely mirrors its conditions in the wild. And when it comes to simulating that environment, be sure to ask a florist or horticulture specialist for specific plant care needs. Almost every plant is different, and simple trial-and-error may lead to frustration. In short, ask the pros. They know.

-- Feed ’em and reap. Make sure to give plants the correct plant food. For many plants, watering is just not enough. They need the right combination of both. Just like people, the best-looking and healthiest plants usually have the best-balanced diets.

-- Super-size it. Keeping certain plants more potbound (actually a little too big for their pots) might actually make for better flowering. Additionally, pinching the tips of the plant can foster more growth, making them grow bushier and fuller.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus offers these tips so that indoor plants might brighten up a dreary winter day, accentuate the perfect spring morning, provide some hope for a dried-out summer lawn — even complement a predominantly rust-colored fall landscape with a splash of brighter colors. Celebrating all the seasons with flowering houseplants is easy — with a little help from AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Offers Advice on Protecting Your Family Against Severe Weather Events

Incidents of severe weather, from tornados and hail storms to blizzard conditions and extreme thunderstorms, are clearly on the rise, reports AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®. These weather events increase the risk of harm to loved ones and property, so it’s vital that people know how to keep themselves safe.

Whether it’s a prolonged stretch of killer tornados in the Midwest, heat waves out west or Category-3 hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, severe weather seems to have taken root in the United States, and it shows no signs of leaving any time soon. While witnessing the power and glory of Mother Nature can be awe-inspiring, it can also be very costly, in terms of property damage and injuries or fatalities suffered by humans, notes AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

Like the old saying goes, “Everyone talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.” Well, AP9 HomeWorks Plus has a few tips on what people can do to protect their family and themselves against extreme weather events in the summer:

-- Prepare a disaster supplies kit. Stock the kit with enough materials to last several days. Include clothes; canned food (and a can opener); at least three gallons of water per person; a first-aid kit; any and all necessary medications, including prescription drugs; sleeping bags; portable radio and flashlight (and batteries). Keep the supply kit stocked throughout the year, and refresh the contents with new food and medications as needed.

-- Create an emergency plan for every possible situation. Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do during a tornado, a hurricane, a flash flood and any other severe weather event. Determine the safest place to gather in your home, agree on a rendezvous spot (a local school or hospital, for instance) in case you’re separated after a severe storm, and set up an out-of-state friend or relative who can act as a contact person as needed. Write all the information down, and make sure everyone has a copy stored in a safe, accessible place.

-- Conduct an emergency drill before bad weather strikes. Practice makes perfect, and that applies to severe weather incidents as much as it does to, say, playing baseball. Prepare the supply kit, and show everyone where it’s stored, suggests AP9 HomeWorksPlus. Delegate pre-storm duties (storing lawn furniture, closing curtains, bringing pets inside, etc.), and walk everyone through their chores. Decide where the family should go in the event of a tornado (preferably a windowless room in the center of the lowest floor in the house), and remind them to bring cushions or other protective layers to guard against flying objects and/or collapsing walls. Take everyone to the agreed-upon rendezvous point, and determine the safest route for getting there. If you have a back-up generator, make sure everyone knows how to turn it on and use it.

-- Discuss post-storm dangers. After severe weather events leave, certain risks remain. Point out areas around the home and neighborhood where downed power lines, floodwaters or other factors may be a threat after the storm passes.

Severe weather presents great risks to both people and property, but by taking a few precautions, you can reduce the risks that your family faces, notes AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Offers Convenient Home Maintenance Tips for the Spring-Cleaning Push

It’s spring, and that means busy times around the old homestead, reports AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program from Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, because it’s time to revamp the house, garden and surrounding areas. Things in and around the house can take a beating during the winter months between ice, snow and colder temperatures — even the winter blues. AP9 HomeWorks Plus offers its members tricks and tips on what it takes to restore the house’s shine and keep things sparkling, long after Old Man Winter has decided to call it quits — at least until the next go-round.

Neglecting home upkeep during the winter months seems, well, about par for the course. And that’s just where a well-designed spring-cleaning regimen and home maintenance program can lead — out of the garage, back yard or attic and straight to the golf course or some other worthwhile open air locale. AP9 HomeWorksPlus can help make the transition to spring that much faster with these five helpful indoor and outdoor spring maintenance improvement ideas:

-- Cool will soon be king. It won’t be long before that first really hot day. Think ahead and try out that air conditioning system now — not later.

-- Raise the roof. Okay. Don’t literally raise it, but inspecting it is always a good idea. Look for loose or curled-up shingles, and think about re-roofing if the damaged shingles cover at least 20% of the roof.

-- Free ’em up and check ’em out. Be sure to remove all debris from gutters and downspouts, and patch up any holes. Also, make sure the cleared downspouts aim water at least five feet from the house’s foundation walls.

-- Don’t bug me. It might actually be reassuring to see those first few spring insects, but that doesn’t mean they belong in the house. Trim branches and trees that are touching the house, and keep bugs outside.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus offers these tips to help make spring what it’s supposed to be — a return to the “outside” world after a long winter. So let the fresh air drift right in, and let all the old air waft back out. Celebrating spring’s return is simply a breeze — with a little help from AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Gives Tips on Keeping Things “Shipshape”

In the never-ending struggle to keep a clean house, AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program from Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, offers its members tips on how to make walls shine and floors sparkle more efficiently.

With spring fast approaching, those “spring cleaning” chores will go a lot quicker — leaving more time for outdoor pursuits — with some helpful timesaving tips. AP9 HomeWorks Plus suggests five ideas that will eliminate overall clutter, save time and perhaps even make anti-grime spokesman “Mr. Clean” green with envy:

-- Clean top to bottom. When dusting, for example, start at the top and work down. Those “dust bunnies” can be stubborn, so use both a wet and dry rag when fighting off dirt, build-up and cobwebs.

-- Divide and conquer. Everyone one has a preferred method, but AP9 HomeWorksPlus suggests taking all needed cleaning supplies into each individual room. This will cut down on unnecessary back-and-forth trips and save on overall cleaning time.

-- That’s fresh. The fresher-smelling the house, the cleaner it probably is. Try using baking soda or another carpet freshening product at night, and then vacuum the next morning.

-- Welcome mats stop unwelcome dirt. A welcome mat is not only a nice personal touch for guests and visitors, it also serves as a great dirt picker-upper/knocker-offer. Keep a large welcome mat out front to be cordial, but more importantly, use it as a friendly reminder: “Please don’t track mud/dirt/grime into the house.”

-- Make it a family affair. When it comes to keeping things clean over extended periods, get the whole family involved. Assign specific jobs and areas of responsibility to each family member. For example, put one person in charge of running the dishwasher before the day’s end. Instruct another, perhaps, to bring dirty clothes down to the laundry room. The more concise the routine, the easier it is to maintain.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus offers these tips solely as advice. Cleaning and keeping things neat doesn’t have to be an exact science. It just needs a routine that works best for all those concerned. In simple terms, just do what works. But if that tried and true cleaning routine seems to be falling short of expectations, just fall back on these and a host of other helpful tips from AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Presents Tasteful Gifts Ideas for a New Neighbor

Moving to a new neighborhood is just kind of like the first day of school – you don’t know anybody and feel like a fish out of water. So it may come as a pleasant surprise when a new neighbor knocks at the door, offers a “welcome to the neighborhood” gift and a friendly smile. AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, provides members with helpful tips on how to make new neighbors feel welcomed without having to bust the budget.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus allows members to save on just about all of their home decorating, home improvement and home maintenance projects by logging on to HomeWorksPlus123.com. There they will find discounts of up to 20% at national home improvement and home retail stores across the country – savings perfect for purchasing gifts for new neighbors.

Giving a welcome gift doesn’t have to be expensive. AP9 HomeWorksPlus recommends usefulness before expensiveness. Whenever picking out a housewarming gift, try to purchase items new home dwellers might need the most. AP9 HomeWorks Plus suggests the following items that will surely come in handy to those new families on the block.

-- Deliver a move-in survival kit – This kit will come in handy since it includes such items as: paper plates and cups, plastic flatware, a can opener, a phone book, a bottle of aspirin, and maybe some flowers. Be creative and remember the little things you needed when you first moved into your new place. Think of items that are not too expensive but useful. For families with small children, include crayons and coloring books.

-- Arrange for a town tour – Give the gift of personal time. Volunteer to show the new neighbors where stores, schools, parks, and other services are located. It’ll be a great opportunity to get to know them and for them to get to know the neighborhood.

-- Make something special – Give the gift of yourself by making something homemade. Baked goods, a painted welcome sign, a flower arrangement or a simple basket of fruit are just a few ideas. These items are usually graciously accepted since it came from the heart.

-- Make a neighborhood phonebook – This is an excellent idea for the people who are very involved in the community. List all names, addresses and phone numbers of neighbors on the block and put them into a three-ring binder for the new neighbors. It is also helpful to include important local phone numbers such as schools and healthcare facilities. Let them know resources for neighborhood snow removal, leaf removal and local babysitters.

All these ideas require personal time and effort – not money. They will also be more useful to a new neighbor than a very expensive bottle of wine for example. Tasteful gifts given with a warm smile just might make a new neighbor’s move much more special, concludes AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Educates Members on the Art of Wine Tasting

Wine tasting parties have become so popular, today’s wine enthusiasts and party hosts include everyone from corporate honchos to former Major League baseball pitchers. For the rest of us, AP9 HomeWorks Plus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, provides members with helpful tips for hosting a smashing wine tasting.

A love for both wine and entertaining friends and guests is the only prerequisites for hosting a great wine tasting event. Thanks to AP9 HomeWorksPlus, the details are simply a matter of following these four easy-to-follow tips and suggestions:

-- Keep the mood light. Wine tasting doesn’t have to be serious. Whatever pre-conceived ideas might exist about wine tasting events being stuffy, forget them! Many of today’s wine tasting parties are about sharing a love for wine with friends — certainly nothing stuffy or elitist about that.

-- Think big, but start off small. A good amount of people for a small wine tasting gathering is somewhere between 12 and 16 people. One bottle of wine, for example, can be poured in small amounts into each person’s glass this way. Start with four to six different wines for comparison and rating. This will make it easier to host larger events down the road — especially when you start receiving compliments on your wine knowledge.

-- Set a theme. Think about comparing Cabernets to Chardonnays, wines from different regions and even “wild card” wines — those that few people have heard of, but are decidedly tasty and pleasantly surprising. To add to the fun, bag each of the wines. Don’t let friends and guests see which wines they’re drinking. This is especially effective if each guest has been asked to bring a bottle for the tasting. Like they say, “Anonymity promotes honesty.”

-- Add some food to the mix. Matching food and wine is a somewhat different art, but even novice wine enthusiasts should consider adding food to a wine tasting. Remember that light foods go with light wines. And logically, heavier foods go with heavy wines. For example, a dish like filet of sole goes nicely with a Sauvignon Blanc but not with a Zinfandel. Conversely, a hearty dish like pesto pizza with cheese would be the perfect complement to Zinfandel but would probably overpower the Sauvignon Blanc.

As in most things, common sense usually rules. Keep things simple, and the party will be a smash! AP9 HomeWorksPlus offers these tips solely as advice. The beauty of an event like a wine tasting is that it doesn’t have to be an exact science. When in doubt, though, just leave all the details to AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Shares Winter Home Improvement Project Ideas

Many people find winter a difficult time of year — limited daylight hours, colder temperatures and, inevitably, a lot more time spent in the home. Still, the onset of winter doesn’t have to mean it’s time to hibernate. Adaptive Marketing LLC^®’s membership discount program AP9 HomeWorks Plus offers tips for in-home projects that will keep things so busy that Old Man Winter won’t have a chance to bring you down.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus members can simply log on to DealPass.com for access to discounts of up to 20% off at popular national and online retailers.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus knows that a demanding daily schedule requires expert time management, regardless of the season. With winter dictating more indoor activity, though, AP9 HomeWorksPlus has some home improvement ideas that will not only fit neatly into a potentially hectic schedule, but will also chase away what is commonly known as “Cabin Fever.”

To keep up the activity and keep in-home projects as interesting and diverse as possible, AP9 HomeWorksPlus suggests trying some of the following ideas:

-- Consider potential indoor painting needs. Tired of looking at the walls in the bathroom, kitchen or study? If the walls in those rooms are chipping, peeling or just in need of a change in décor, winter might be a good time to paint.

-- Create window treatments. Wintertime may just bring out the decorator in you. It’s easy to design window treatments that add character and even define a given room.

-- Keep furniture and appliances clean. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean inside items should be neglected. Put some time aside to clean furniture and appliances. It’s best to use industrial cleaning supplies only in rooms where there is plenty of ventilation and no fire hazards.

-- Organize seasonally year-round. There’s an old expression that reads, “I’ve gotta get organizized.” Don’t let that happen. Use the winter months to get things settled within the house. It will make things that much easier when it’s time to head outside for spring cleaning.

Saving money on home furnishings and accessories, home improvement needs, home entertainment and gifts is easy for members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus. This membership discount program is your gateway for making your home a warm, inviting center of fun without breaking your household budget, concludes AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Provides Tips for Toy Storage

Picture this…it’s midnight. Awakened by thirst, you make your way to the kitchen. Not to disturb anyone, you forgo turning on the lights and decide to slowly feel your way towards the sink. Tiptoeing ever so carefully…OUCH! CRASH! BANG! Yup, you find yourself on your backside because you stepped on a stray Lego piece that stuck to the bottom of your foot, and as you were trying to remove it, you lost your balance and fell on top of a Lego castle that your children built the day before. Does any of this sound familiar? While AP9 HomeWorks Plus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, can’t help with the bruises, it can help members save on purchases for their home…like toy storage.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus reports that with the holidays are just around the corner it may be a good time to clear out some of the existing toy clutter in preparation of new items. Donate toys that are no longer “age appropriate” and organize the toys that are used most often. This is a win-win situation. Donating toys during the holidays (or anytime) will help the less fortunate while providing you with a clutter-free (and accident-free) home.

Members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus can access a wide variety of discounts and savings by logging on to DealPass.com. Members receive up to 20% off at nationally-known home improvement and retail stores on hundreds of items that are purchased for everyday use or even gifts for special occasions.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus provides a few easy, inexpensive, fun and creative toy storage tips:

--Recycled boxes. Don’t throw out those big boxes that toys come in. Reuse them for storing toys. Worried about the appearance? Don’t fret. Cover the boxes with scraps of lively wrapping paper or use plain poster paper – the kids can have fun creating their own colorful masterpiece on the outside of the box.

--Trash cans. Garbage cans come in vibrant colors (perfect for children’s rooms) with a large amount of space for storing anything from books to balls. As an added bonus they come with a lid to prevent “toy spillage.”

--Clothes hampers. Clothes hampers provide an inexpensive and unique way to store toys. Hampers come in so many materials, patterns, sizes and designs that it would be difficult not to find one that fits your needs. From the pop-up hamper to the wicker hamper, an organized house can be easy and affordable.

--Shoe boxes. Shoe boxes are great for storing art-related items like crayons, markers, scissors and erasers. Kids can decorate the outside as part of a fun rainy or snowy day project. And they are stackable. If all the shoe boxes are in use, empty coffee containers also work wonders in the storage arena.

These money-saving toy storage tips were brought to you by AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Unearths Ghoulish Home Decorating Ideas for Halloween

Halloween – a holiday that is celebrated around the world by children of all ages – even adults. Halloween fanatics start costume planning months before the big day. But why stop at there? AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, has conjured up a few haunting home decorating ideas that will help members astound party-monsters and trick-or-treaters alike.

Halloween provides us with a unique opportunity to shed our own skin and slip into someone (or something) else’s. From Dracula to Mickey Mouse, Halloween allows our individuality and creativity to shine through. But to let the genuine spirit of the night bubble through, members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus can log on to DealPass to save on spooktacular home decorations that will put an enchanting spell over the entire neighborhood.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus offers some spine-tingling ideas for transforming your home into a haunted manor.

-- Make your own graveyard with headstones fashioned out of styrofoam boards or cardboard. Paint them gray, and write your own epitaphs — “The Curse of the Mommy,” “8-track Tapes,” “Last Year’s Trick-or-Treaters,” or whatever tickles your funny bone. Create a ghostly fog effect by placing a container of dry ice behind a headstone, and embellish the cemetery with play spiders and manmade webs.

-- Make your jack-o’-lanterns come to life by adding a body. Fill plastic trash bags with newspaper, then dress the bags in old clothes. You can also carve several pumpkins and scatter them around the yard, on top of headstones or rocks and of course, on the front porch.

-- Hang Halloween lights around your front door into your party room, then use colored light bulbs to cast an eerie cloud over your guests. A black light can generate a ghostly beam, especially with a flicker switch, and strategically placed candles are ideal lighting for ghastly props and other party pranks.

-- Grisly looking chow can add a merrily macabre tone. In the right light, a big bowl of spaghetti and meat sauce can be played off as blood and guts, and a jar of peeled green grapes can easily take on the appearance of a collection of eyeballs. And serving red wine or adding (non-toxic) red dye to the punch can satisfy the hunger of any vampire on the block.

-- As a finishing touch, decorate your foyers with spine-chilling props: glow-in-the-dark skeletons; cobwebs lined with spiders; construction-paper bats suspended by fishing line; window decals of witches, goblins, black cats and other ghostly images; corpses that pop out to welcome guests when they open doors; rooms engulfed in dry-ice fog; and toothy-grinned jack-o’-lanterns.

The only restrictions to your Halloween decorations are those you force upon yourself, which might depend on the age range of your ghosts, er, guests. As AP9 HomeWorks Plus members know, you can get bewitching good savings on home decor, home entertainment and much more through the program. Have a howling good time, concludes AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Shapes Up Cluttered Closets

Closets are almost every home’s weakness – whether large or small. The valuable space is often abused but can be the easiest to organize and maintain. AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading home and entertainment discount membership program from Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, offers commonsense steps to take the clutter out of closets without having to buy an expensive designer storage system.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus helps members save up to 20% on materials for home improvement projects, appliances, electronics, home furnishings, organizational purchases and so much more. Members access their benefits by logging on to DealPass.com. It is here they will find discounts at major home improvement stores and home retail stores across the country. And with savings like this, there’s no excuse to de-clutter all the closets in the house!

AP9 HomeWorks Plus suggests the following strategies for getting the most out of every closet in the house.

--Sort it out. It’s a good idea to take everything out of the closet and sort through it before installing a store-bought or homemade closet system. Get rid of clothes that haven’t been worn in the past year, no longer fit, impulse purchases and items that have gone out of style. Although popular styles return, they’re usually altered slightly so that even those formerly trendy items don’t quite fit in. Try to minimize wardrobes; it’s very easy to accumulate multiple white shirts and black skirts. It may be difficult to pick and choose what to keep and what to toss, but it will free up space for future purchases.

--Sketch and measure. Measure all dimensions of the closet and record measurements on paper. This will make shopping for shelving and other storage solutions easier. Then determine the number of rods, shelves and even baskets or drawer units necessary to maximize space. Consider installing two rods; in standard-sized closets, the top one should be about 80 inches above the floor and the lower one at 40 inches. This will help double the space for articles that hang like shirts, skirts, dresses, suits and dress pants. For maximum space, sketch shelf placements from floor to ceiling or at least from the highest rod to the ceiling. This will be convenient storage space for seldom-used items and clothing.

--Hang, shelve, fill. Rods and shelves aren’t the only ways to store clothing. The inside of the closet door can hold a hanging shoe, hat or tie rack. Visit a storage solutions retailer for handy baskets and drawer units designed to fit in closets and small spaces. Use these for awkward items like purses, belts, gloves and hats. Consider folding clothes like sweaters and jeans and storing them on the shelves. Don’t forget the available floor space, which is perfect for a shoe rack or other stackable storage bins.

Members can find savings as well as convenience when tackling a home improvement project – both large and small – through AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Offers Fun Ideas for Hosting a Different Kind of Labor Day Party

Even though summer 2006 doesn’t officially end until September 22, Labor Day weekend is for most people the “unofficial” ending of the season, and as reported by AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, millions of Americans want to say goodbye in style: with an unforgettable party.

Members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus can conveniently access their benefits through DealPass.com and save on all of their home needs, from furniture and decorations to remodeling supplies and appliances. Of course, when it’s time to put a party together, members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus take advantage of their benefits to save money on party supplies of all kinds.

So when the savings are so accessible, what kind of party should you throw? That’s the question many folks ponder before it’s time to go back to school or a regular work schedule and put the shorts and tank tops away until next year.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus has a few ideas about Labor Day party themes that might interest you, some more wild and original than others, but all fun nonetheless:

-- Viva Mexico. Make your house a Margaritaville and celebrate with a party “tequila style.” There’s no need for sombreros (although they’re never a bad choice for a fun party); just create an outside party with a tropical theme, get lots of chips and salsa, and create a self-service “taco bar.” Although lime margaritas are the most popular ones (frozen or on the rocks), you can make them in a great variety of flavors: strawberry, peach, watermelon and mango are some of the frozen choices that guests will definitely enjoy. Any music goes well with margaritas, so let your personal taste be the judge, but remember to play happy tunes, those that would make your guests sing, then throw in some songs in Spanish and challenge them to follow the lyrics.

-- A day of laziness. Labor Day was created by the labor movement in the 1880s to recognize the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of the United States. Declare a one-day, sit-down strike on Labor Day, and invite family and friends for a day of laziness like no other during the year. To keep the to-do tasks to a minimum, set up a big table with food and drinks to keep everything within reach, and put pillows, mats, lawn blankets and lounge chairs all around it. Also, get a couple of hammocks and display them when guests come in, so they can set them up and watch how the fun unfolds while they relax under the shade of the trees. Make sure you have a remote control to play the music; even if no one is dancing, they can sing a couple of tunes while they lay down and relax.

-- A division of labor party (a.k.a. a potluck party). If you don’t want all of the responsibilities of hosting a party, invite your friends and relatives over, and ask them each to bring something -- hot dogs, burgers, soda, chips, dip, salads, desserts, games, sports equipment and more. Offer them prizes -- Best Dish, Most Creative Dip, Least Amount of Effort -- as encouragement.

-- Music for all ages. Create your own stage with a velvet backdrop (any color will do), silver stars hanging from the ceiling, a couple of rented microphones and a spotlight. Encourage your guests to bring a CD with their favorite song or band. You can create contests (guess the year the song was a hit, or name the band/artist of a song), have karaoke matches and dance to the rhythm of all music genres.

-- Venice beach party. Let your guests know this is not a mere “beach party.” This will be a Venice beach kind of party, with all the ingredients of this famous beach on the Pacific Ocean. Encourage friends and family to let their wild side loose and ask them to use their talents to entertain others. Acrobats, clowns, fortune tellers, jugglers and such are all welcome! Crank up Jimmy Buffet and similar bands on the stereo, and don’t forget to set up a volleyball net; get Frisbees, kites and footballs, and serve fresh beverages like lemonade and fruit punch.

Happy celebrating, concludes AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Helps Home Sellers Enhance Their Property

Moving may be one of the most stressful rites of passage and selling a home can make life even more difficult. But members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a membership discount program available from Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, know that they can rely on significant discounts for their decorating, gardening and other home projects.

By simply logging on to DealPass.com, AP9 HomeWorks Plus members have access to exclusive savings of up to 20% on gift card purchases to favorite local and national retailers. With savings on entertainment, home improvement, flowers and gifts, members can save money on the projects needed to sell their existing home and decorate their new one.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus recommends that sellers take the time to increase the charm factor inside and outside of their homes before opening the doors to potential buyers. The strategies are easy and inexpensive:

Exterior improvements

• Obviously it’ll depend on the time of year the house goes up for sale but plant flowers or plants near the front door, garage or along the sidewalk. They can be as simple as marigolds.
• Remove tree limbs, trash, toys, garden tools and any other clutter from the yard. Maintain the lawn and gardens regularly.
• Clean the driveway, walkways, steps, deck, fencing and any other entry/exit area.
• Paint exterior areas and repair any damaged siding or shingles.
• Clean all windows and doors.

Interior improvements

• Consider having carpets professionally cleaned to remove odors and minimize the appearance of wear.
• Paint all walls a neutral color.
• Remove all personal items from view such as frames and personal mementos so that buyers can visualize their belongings in the home.
• Remove clutter from countertops, tables, windowsills – everywhere.
• Clean the refrigerator, oven, and inside cabinets. Keep garbage cans clean at all times.
• Use potpourri or a mild air freshener in all rooms.
• Less is more, so try to minimize furniture (especially if it’s oversized) to create the feel of larger spaces.
• Tie back curtains and turn on lights to brighten rooms.
• Keep pets away during showings.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus reminds members who are selling their homes that appearance is a high priority when the “for sale” sign goes up. Members can make it easier on themselves by saving up to 20% on all their home improvement needs through AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Reminds Fourth of July Fans to Use Fireworks Safely

The Fourth of July holiday goes hand in hand with backyard barbecues and impressive firework displays. This annual tradition provides the perfect backdrop for a nighttime outing but it can also pose a danger when used carelessly, resulting in tragic injury. AP9 HomeWorks Plus, a membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, wants its members to enjoy a safe Fourth by following common sense safety tips and taking advantage of savings on home improvement projects, family entertainment and more—all summer long.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus members conveniently save up to 20% at their favorite national home improvement and home décor retailers across the country when they log on to DealPass.com. Members get discounts on cooking, home entertainment equipment, movie rentals, flowers and gifts, which means they can use their savings for an extended summer vacation or family outing.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus members can prevent potential injury and damage to their property by following these firework safety tips.

-- Check state laws and local ordinances concerning fireworks. Many states restrict specific types of fireworks and some even ban them.

-- Never allow children to light or play with fireworks. Even fireworks like sparklers that are considered to be “safe” can cause injuries when used recklessly. An adult should always supervise children who are near firework displays.

-- Read labels carefully and follow ignition instructions. Don’t directly lean over a firework when lighting it. Never point a firework at someone or ignite in a container. Always use them outdoors and avoid enclosed areas, trees, homes and any other hazard overhead.

-- Don’t try to re-light fireworks that have already detonated or malfunctioned. Keep a bucket of water and soak fireworks that don’t successfully set off or use a hose if possible. Dispose of fireworks properly in a trash can.

-- Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.

-- Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks and stay away from illegal ones.

-- If fireworks need to be stored, follow the storage instructions on the labels. Keep in a cool, dry place away from any flammable materials and heat sources.

For the safest holiday, check media listings for local or regional firework displays and leave it to the professionals for a memorable show. This safety checklist is made available by AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Cools Off This Summer with National Ice Cream Month

With the average American consuming more than 20 quarts of ice cream a year, it’s no wonder that a whole month would eventually be dedicated to everyone’s favorite dessert. Thanks to President Ronald Regan, July is National Ice Cream Month and AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, encourages its members to pay homage to sundaes, milkshakes and cones throughout the month.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus members enjoy discounts of up to 20% and more on their home improvement and décor projects, home electronics and books and music. Members save both time and money because AP9 HomeWorks Plus makes it easy; they simply log onto DealPass.com to order gift cards at 20% off that can be used at their favorite retailers nationwide.

So get out that ice cream scoop, grab a couple of half gallons and follow these creative ideas from AP9 HomeWorksPlus for a month of summer fun.

Cool off with an ice cream social.

Why eat ice cream at home after dinner when workplaces, day cares and entire neighborhoods that could use a little fun? Talk to colleagues about coordinating an office ice cream happy hour and delegate toppings, ice cream flavors, spoons and bowls. Perhaps order an ice cream cake for a special neighbor or friend. Since the kids are out of school, offer to host an ice cream social where everyone makes their own sundae.

Scoop up some new flavors.

Many ice cream shops now offer exotic new flavors or blend two popular flavors into one (chocolate pistachio, anyone?), making it easy to try funky new sundaes. Host a challenge at home with the kids or at the next gathering and have everyone create their own signature flavor. Buy some standard flavors on as well as different fruits, candy, nuts and toppings and let the artistry begin. Gather a panel of judges to find the best concoction.

One part ice cream…

What happens when a scoop of fudge swirl is combined with, well, anything? Let the kids and their friends get creative in the kitchen. With ice cream as the required ingredient, see what wild ideas they cook up, mix up, bake up and shake up. Have on hand foods not usually associated with ice cream. Maybe this is the perfect opportunity to find out what new dish is formed when brussel sprouts are mixed with cookie dough ice cream.

With exclusive savings from AP9 HomeWorksPlus, the celebration can last all summer long. There’s no more enjoyable way for members to spend summer than when they spend less through AP9 HomeWorks Plus!

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Urges Homeowners to Recognize National Safety Month

Summertime brings more time in the backyard and work around the house. While it’s a fun and productive time of year for homeowners, it can also be the most dangerous. That’s why AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, offers home safety tips along with opportunities to save on home improvement projects, family entertainment and more.

Because more time is spent outdoors during the warmer months, AP9 HomeWorksPlus members can take advantage of up to 20% savings at national home improvement and home décor retailers across the country when they log onto DealPass.com. Members can also save on cooking, entertainment and flowers and gifts, which is perfect for upcoming summer parties and family picnics.

By taking the time to follow a few commonsense tips, AP9 HomeWorks Plus members can prevent, or at least minimize, potential injury and emergency situations.

-- Keep power tools and dangerous cleaning products and chemicals out of children’s reach. Home improvement stores sell storage units with locking mechanisms for garages, kitchen cabinets and other workspaces.

-- Summer is the season for devastating weather conditions. Put together an emergency kit containing bottled water; canned food and a can opener; battery-powered radio and batteries; flashlights; rain gear for the whole family; important phone numbers; maps and other relevant information; and an extra cellphone charger. Include items for pets, and be sure to periodically check power levels on the batteries as well as expiration dates on canned food and beverages.

-- Plan a fire escape route for the family. Second-story homes should contain an escape ladder in each bedroom. Fire extinguishers should be kept in convenient places in the kitchen, garage and basement. Test smoke alarms every season.

-- Carbon monoxide detectors are an easy yet life-saving device that no home should be without. Install a detector on each floor, and remember to test the batteries when you test the smoke alarms.

-- Keep a list of important emergency contact numbers near every phone. This list should include the fire and police departments, poison control center, family physicians and a reliable neighbor or nearby friend who can assist in an emergency.

-- Swimming pools should be fenced and locked whenever they’re not in use — even during the winter months.

-- Store the outdoor grill away from where pets and children play, as well as away from trees and plants and high-traffic areas. Check the propane tank for leaks. Don’t be tempted to bring a grill indoors for any reason, as it presents fire and carbon monoxide risks.

This home safety checklist is brought to you by AP9 HomeWorks Plus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Reveals Low-Cost, Easy Answers for Monotonous Spring Cleaning Jobs

Spring produces green grass, plentiful gardens and longer, warmer days. It also means it’s time to dust, polish, organize and fix up the home for the sunnier months to come. Adaptive Marketing LLC®'s membership discount program AP9 HomeWorksPlus shares that spring cleaning doesn’t have to be the tedious task -- or the expense -- that property owners and tenants agonize over each year.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus reveals that even though the job at hand seems overwhelming, members can save up to 20% on their cleaning and home improvement supplies when they shop at the most popular home and retail stores across the country. And because spring will soon be here, members can save even more on seasonal products that might already on sale.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus recommends experimenting with the following spring cleaning tips that will hopefully save you time and money:

-- Shop for supplies. Make a list of the cleaning supplies you have on hand. For the supplies you need, check your local home improvement stores and discount retailers for sales and specials on cleaners, brushes, gloves, buckets, mops -- items you’ll need to get the job done. Stocking up on supplies beforehand will save you time while you’re cleaning and prevent you being interrupted from the task at hand. Buy a plastic caddy or durable bucket to carry your supplies from room to room.

-- Room by room. Clean in small doses -- one room at a time. This will make your house cleaning project less overwhelming and help keep you focused on the job. Tackle the largest or most difficult room first, as you’ll have the most energy at the start of the day. Give yourself a small break after cleaning a couple of rooms, and repeat to stay energized. Cleaning during daytime is easier (the light helps you see those dust bunnies and dirty windows), so when the sun sets, it’s time to throw in the towel.

-- Get out the grubs. Now is the time to pull out that pair of old jeans and out-of-style sweatshirt. Find some old threads to wear while you clean, particularly those that can be disposed of when you’re done. Or visit a local discount store for some cheap pants and shirts that you can use again for another cleaning project.

-- Clean to the beat. Before getting down and dirty -- turn up the tunes. Whistling and singing while you work will help the time go by quickly and keep you in good spirits while you fight against dirt and grime.

-- Tag, toss or think? As you clean each room, make three piles: items for a tag sale later in the spring; items to toss in the garbage; and items you’re not sure what to do with. Tag sales are a great way to make a few extra dollars for an upcoming summer vacation -- the best part is that you get rid of extra clutter. If you haven’t used it, worn it or played with it for more than a year, it’s time to get rid of it. And if you can’t make a quick decision about an item, make a pile to think about when you’ve finished cleaning that room or area. Keep an eye out for local charity drives, or bring your unwanted items to a local donation center.

With AP9 HomeWorksPlus, members save money year-round on home improvements and products, entertainment and gifts for family and friends. And because members can simply log on to DealPass.com, enjoying discounts of up to 20% at their favorite national and online retailers has never been easier, concludes AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Adds Some Flavor to Your Coffee Without Breaking the Bank

Most of us look forward to and depend on that first cup of coffee before we start our busy days, with many of us leaning towards a tantalizing flavored coffee to add little zing to our daily routine. And our devotion to caffeine can make quite a dent in our pocketbooks. But Adaptive Marketing LLC^®'s membership discount program AP9 HomeWorks Plus shows just how easy — and economical — it is to make flavored coffee with just a few basic ingredients found in your pantry.

Short on time and ingredients? No problem! Making your own flavored coffee doesn’t necessarily require shopping for hart-to-find ingredients at specialty stores. And if your home becomes an unplanned after-dinner gathering place, you need not worry about having high-end ingredients on hand to turn a typical pot of coffee into a tasty one.

If you’ve wanted to try flavored coffees but didn’t want to spend the money (and possibly be disappointed), AP9 HomeWorks Plus reports that making your own brew is the money-saving answer. With these easy tips from AP9 HomeWorksPlus, you’ll have consistent, delicious, flavored coffee for every occasion.

For quick-and-easy flavored coffee, AP9 HomeWorksPlus suggests trying the following enhancements:

-- Before making a pot of coffee, add some fresh, finely grated nutmeg, cinnamon or cocoa directly to the ground coffee. You can purchase these items in small quantities at your local grocery store; they keep well for a long.

-- For a Hawaiian twist, try adding some orange zest to ground coffee before brewing.

-- Add a seasonal spin to ground coffee by adding a few dashes of pumpkin pie spice prior to brewing.

-- After brewing and pouring, add whipped cream and chocolate or caramel syrup to each serving. If you don’t have syrup, sprinkle shaved cocoa, cinnamon or even coconut.

-- Consider adding a flavorful liqueur to each mug. Peppermint, butterscotch, orange, chocolate and crème de menthe liqueurs will turn your ordinary coffee into a restaurant-style beverage. Top with whipped cream.

Saving money on home and garden products, home improvements, home entertainment and gifts is easy for members of AP9 HomeWorks Plus. Members simply log on to DealPass.com for access to discounts of up to 20% at popular national and online retailers. This membership discount program is your gateway for entertaining family and friends without having to spend a lot of beans, concludes AP9 HomeWorks Plus!

AP9 HomeWorksPlus Helps Take Care of Drivers During Winter Weather

‘Tis the season for ice and snow to fall across much of the nation, and since the holiday season has come and gone, winter-like conditions are not as appreciated to drivers on the road as they are to the folks who like to get out and play in it. Members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, can at least take comfort in knowing that they can save money on items they can use to assist them in getting rid of winter’s precipitation -- keeping their cars maintained and sidewalks and driveways clean.

New fallen snow can be absolutely breathtaking; however, there are some people -- commuters -- who cringe when their local weather forecast shows a possible chance of snow, while school-aged children, skiers and snowboarders jump for joy. Blizzard-like conditions can add on a good chunk of time to even a short work commute, and that’s assuming you arrived to your destination unscathed.

As the old saying goes, everyone talks about the weather but no one ever does anything about it. AP9 HomeWorksPlus has no control over Mother Nature, but we do have a few helpful hints to assist you in preparing for whatever she chooses to send your way this winter:

-- Practice defensive driving, and reduce your speed. Cars take longer to come to a stop on wet, snowy and/or icy pavement, trucks even more so. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, and keep an eye out for trucks behind you.

-- Make sure your car is packed with items you might need in an emergency situation: a small bag of abrasive material, a snow shovel and snowbrush, traction mats, a flashlight (with fresh batteries), an ice scraper, cloth/paper towels, jumper cables, a blanket, and warning devices (flare, triangles).

-- Winterize your car. Take it in for a tune-up, and have the service technician check your brakes, tires, exhaust, heating, and windshield wipers/washer system.

-- Keep at least half a tank of gas in your car at all times. This will help keep your gas lines from freezing.

-- Wash your car. Cleaning your car in winter will keep snow and road grime from sticking to your car’s headlights lights, which makes it easier for you to see and be seen. In addition, the sand/salt mixture the city uses to deice the streets can easily rust out a car if it is not removed over time.

-- Parking in a garage will keep snow from piling up on your car, but remember not to warm up your car in an enclosed garage (or other area). A build-up of carbon monoxide emissions from your car can be fatal.

-- If you need to shovel your driveway or walkway, remember three things: 1. Stretch out beforehand. Especially in deep snow, shoveling can strain unprepared muscles. 2. Use your knees to lift the snow. Your back shouldn’t absorb the brunt of the weight. 3. Don’t overexert yourself; take breaks as needed.

-- Read the instructions before using any deicer on your driveway and sidewalks. While environment-friendly products are now available, any deicing material has the ability to harm your property if it’s properly used. Some can attack concrete; others can harm vegetation. Don’t let a quick fix to a snowfall result in expensive repairs to your property later.

In addition to savings on items for their home, yard and car, members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus can log on to DealPass to access member-exclusive savings on home decorating, cooking and entertaining, and a variety of other resources for their family. Be careful out there, concludes AP9 HomeWorksPlus.

AP9 HomeWorks Plus Tells How Add a Little Spice to Holiday Meals

The holidays will soon be here and getting ready for your holiday get-together takes on a greater sense of urgency. Members of AP9 HomeWorks Plus, a leading membership discount program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC^®, can benefit from the substantial savings on items perfect for parties and family celebrations such as: kitchen accessories, recipes, gift baskets and prepared-meal services.

Members of AP9 HomeWorksPlus log on to DealPass.com to access members-only discounts on items like ready-made meals and baking goods, gourmet goods, gift baskets and decorations, among others. These savings give members one thing less to stress about when cooking holiday dinners or longer visits over the holidays.

Anyone throwing a party knows that food is the way to any guest’s heart. Deciding what to make and how cater to everyone’s tastes are issues of crucial importance to the success of any bash. What if you decided to try something new this year and prepare a mouthwatering steak with paprika and flakes of chili instead of the traditional marinade? Or a new green bean and sweet curry stir fry instead of the (delicious but overrated) green bean casserole?

AP9 HomeWorks Plus invites you to take a journey down the spice section of your local grocery store to help provide a new twist to your meals this holiday season. Don’t be afraid to bring something new to the table by using spices from around the world that can change a classic dish into a “party in the mouth.” AP9 HomeWorksPlus has some ideas and tips on how to buy, store and use flavorful spices:

-- Buy spices in small amounts, especially if they’re fresh. Keep them stored in a jar (preferably of tinted dark glass) with an airtight lid.

-- Keep your spice rack away from direct heat and sunlight, since both can drain the spices of color and flavor.

-- Most spices don’t need to be refrigerated, but red-colored ones like cayenne pepper, paprika and chili powder should be kept in the fridge to make the flavor last longer. Also, to avoid rancidity, keep poppy and sesame seeds stored in the freezer.

-- To save time in the kitchen, take a moment to pre-mix a combination of spices, like the very Italian combination of ground thyme, marjoram, garlic and onion powder, oregano, paprika, parsley and basil. Combine a quarter-teaspoon of each spice in an airtight jar, and add it to tomato or meat sauce, or use it with pasta, poultry or grilled artichokes.

-- Surprise your guests by adding a touch of India to your appetizers; try a tamarind and date dipping sauce. You can also bring a Mediterranean flavor to your table with Za’atar, a mixture of the spice called sumac, sesame seeds and other herbs, which, when combined with olive oil, can be spread on bread and crackers.

-- Seafood lovers will enjoy a taste of tandoori. It goes great with baked shrimp, various seafood steaks and shrimp pasta salad.

In addition to discounts on cooking and entertaining, members can also receive exclusive savings on home decorating, home improvement and safety improvement as well as a variety of member resources for the home and the family, concludes AP9 HomeWorks Plus.