Plaza College

The Growing Trend: Biking Through the Boroughs!

2012-03-06T08:09:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

The Queens Courier recently published an article reportingthat more NY residents are turning to pedaling their bicycles around town thengetting behind the wheel.

“As New Yorkers spin their wheels thinking of ways to savemoney with the nation in the midst of a recession and gas approaching $4 pergallon, a record number of residents are spinning a different set of wheels…The New York City Department of Transportation announced recently that bikinghas doubled over the last four years, and almost 10 percent more New Yorkersare taking to their bikes compared to last year,” (QueensCourier.com).

An average of 18,846 cyclists were observed each daythroughout locations across the five boroughs – Staten Island, Brooklyn Bridge,Manhattan Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, Queensboro Bridge and the Hudson RiverGreenway at 50^th Street. This is more than double the number ofriders recorded four years ago (QueensCourier.com).

With the growing number of bikers, the city is forced toincrease the number of bike lanes across the city streets. “Over the past fouryears, more than 250 miles of bike lanes have been added in the five boroughs,”(QueensCourier.com).

A recent Quinnipiac University Poll found: 53% of Queens Residentswere in favor of expanded bike lanes, finding cycling to be a greener andhealthier alternative in transportation. Additionally, residents were also overwhelminglysupport a city program that will allow New Yorkers to rent bikes – what a greatidea! “Over two-thirds of borough residents approved of New York City BikeShare, which is planned to launch next summer. More than 50 percent ofresidents favor having a bike rental lot in their neighborhood,”(QueensCourier.com).

Thanks to munimeters, the city is converting individualparking meters into bike racks throughout NY. The Department of Transportationhas installed “175 of the parking meter bike racks throughout the city,including along 37^th Avenue between 73^rd Street and 77^thStreet,” (Queens Courier.com).

Have you used the new bike racks yet throughout the city? Doyou prefer biking or other means of transportation? Let the Plaza College Community know on our Facebook Wall, linked HERE.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2012-03-02T14:16:00.001-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Do GreenEggs & Ham, Thing 1 & Thing 2, and how about the Grinch, mean somethingto you?

On March 2^ndin 1904, Theodor Geisel, better
known as Dr. Seuss, and the author of some ofthe most memorable and popular children’s books, was born in Springfield,Massachusetts.

Geiselgraduated from Dartmouth University and then went on to study also at OxfordUniversity, where he met his first wife, Helen Palmer.

It was HelenPalmer who encouraged Geisel to become a professional Illustrator.

The firstbook Geisel wrote and illustrated, “And to Think I saw It on Mulberry Street,”was rejected by more than two dozen publishers before making it into press andbecoming his first best seller.

Geisel wenton to write 48 books and sold over 200 million copies, which have been translatedinto multiple languages, across the world. Some of his most popular books were “OneFish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish,” “Fox In Socks,” and “The Cat In The Hat.”

He lived andworked in an old observatory in La Jolla, California known as “The Tower,” anddied September 24, 1991, at age 87.

Which Dr.Seuss book is your favorite? Tell us on the Plaza College

Facebook wall, linkedHERE.

The Apple Takeover!

2012-03-01T08:03:00.001-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

With Apple’s sleek designs, high quality and service, the company is now worth a little over 500 Billion dollars- making it now one of the five most-valuable companies at any point history (CNN.com)!

Apple’s valuation is now higher than the domestic rate of Sweden, Poland, Belgium, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan (CNN.com). Only one month ago, Apple’s market valuation rose to $400 billion for the first time, passing ExxonMobil as the top runner in the stock market (CNN.com).

Apple has a more than a predictable chance of superseding Microsoft, which has reached the highest company value at $600 billion dollars, becoming one of the fastest growing technology companies world-wide (CNN.com).

Despite Apple’s technological prestige, shares come at an impressively reasonable price. The company’s gains in stock have not kept pace with its earnings (CNN.com)

At the tender age of 35, Apple’s earnings have gone up from $10 to half a trillion dollars in ten years (CNN.com)

To learn more about the Apple uprising, check out the article published on CNN.com, linked HERE.

Wrapping Up Black History Month at The Academy Awards!

2012-02-28T09:53:00.001-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

At the 2012 Academy Awards, Octavia Spencer received anOscar for “Best Supporting Actress” in the highly acclaimed film The Help.

Spencer has been picking up awards left and right for herturn in The Help, so this award cameas no surprise. Still, the actress – only the fifth African American in historyto win a supporting actress Oscar, seemed genuinely taken back.

On February 29^th, 1940, Hattie McDaniel becamethe first African-American actor to win an Academy Award. The Oscar, for BestSupporting Actress, was for her portrayal of Mammy in Gone With The Wind. On the night she won, McDaniel and her escortwere seated at a segregated table fortwo, away from her fellow Gone With TheWind cast members. Two months prior to the Oscar’s, McDaniel wasn’t allowedto attend the premier of Gone With The Windin Atlanta, GA due to Georgia’s segregationist laws. Winning an Oscar at thattime was an extraordinary achievement.

Whoopi Goldberg was the second African-American to win aBest Supporting Oscar, 38 years after McDaniel in 1990.

In 2001, Halle Berry became the first African-Americanfemale to win the Best Actress Oscar. She won for her role as Leticia Musgrovein Monster’s Ball. The 2001 Oscar’swas also the first time two African-Americans took home both Best Acting honors,with Denzel Washington taking home Best Actor for his role in Training Day.

With Black History Month coming to an end, celebrating the achievementsof so many African-American actors and actresses and the strides they’ve takenin the entertainment industry seems fitting, especially with an Oscar award!

Five Unique Ways The 2012 Academy Awards are Going Green

2012-02-24T09:38:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

TheAcademy Awards, one of the most prestigious entertainment award shows, is rightaround the corner, airing this Sunday, February 26^that 7pm. Many ofHollywood’s most admired actors and actresses, directors, writers and othermoguls will unite to help celebrate this past year. Thisyear, the award show is taking huge strides towards going green! From dressesto gift bags to preparing for next year, the Oscars is sure to be “a green hit.”

Beloware the top 5 ways this year’s ceremony’s contributes to the environment,provided by ECorazzi.com.

MissiPyle to Wear Sustainable Dress

Thered carpet is always full of fabulous dresses. One to keep an eye on this yearis Missi Pyle’s sustainablegown designed by Valentina Delfino, winner of the Red Carpet GreenDress design contest. Founded by James Cameron’s wife, SuzyAmis Cameron, the contest gives aspiring designers the chanceto craft a sustainable dress for the Oscar red carpet. Delfino is this year’slucky winner and now “The Artist” star will strut her stuff in the gown madefrom silk peace chiffon, recycled polyester and natural mineral dye. “It is anincredible honor for me to walk the most glamorous red carpet in the world insuch a stunning and meaningful dress,” Pyle said.

CelebsDine with Fresh California Cuisine

Afterhours of sitting in the audience, Academy Award attendees get famished, sothankfully they have Wolfgang Puck preparing deliciousfood. The famous chef will be cooking over 50 dishes for 1,500 guestsat the Governors Ball in the Hollywood & Highland’s Grand Ballroom. For thepast 18 years, Puck has showcased his talent and this year his buffet andlounge style food will feature fresh California produce and sustainableseafood. The menu includes beet salad with pistachio butter, burrata and citrusbalsamic, lobster tacos and traditional favorites like macaroni and cheese.However, for dessert he is serving gold-dusted chocolate Oscars, which may cause somecontroversy like this year’sGolden Globes.

Actorsand Actresses Celebrate with Green Parties

Itwouldn’t be the Academy Awards without a magnificent party, especially beforethe show even begins! With several pre-parties to choose from, two soundworthwhile. First, Global Green USA hostedits ninth annual event with favorite green celebs in attendance like Adrian Grenier, Kyra Sedgwick, Ed Begley Jr. and Sophia Bush. Bush even showed up in a Chevy Voltelectric car. In addition to promoting eco-awareness, an electric Xenon“lightcycle” from Evolve will was auctionedoff. Can you say sweet?! The event also raised money for GlobalGreen’s National Green Schools initiative and the launch of its Rio EarthSummit.

The second party that was an eco-hit was the Oxfam America Dinner hosted by Vanity Fair, Zenga clothingand Colin and LiviaFirth. Colin may be an Oscar-winner for his role in “The King’sSpeech,” but his wife deserves an award for her eco-fashion efforts. Thisparticular dinner benefits not only Oxfam’s international relief efforts, butalso Livia’s Green Carpet Challenge that has tried to get top designers to jumpon the sustainable design bandwagon. If you remember, Livia made a fashionstatement at the Golden Globes with her eco-friendly Armani dress.Livia also took time to tweet about her sustainable evening wear, “Wearing gorgeousdress #BeulahLondon #GCC2012 perfect as example of relieve women out of poverty@Oxfam India.” Hopefully, we’ll see more of this on Sunday.

GreenGift Bags

Ifbeing nominated for an Oscar isn’t enough, nominees also receive plentiful giftbags filled with goodies. This year, organic, eco-friendly and non-toxic giftswill be given away. For the nominees in major categories who don’t win, theywill receive non-toxic, food safe kitchen products from Essential Safe Products in their “Everybody Wins at theOscars®” nominee gift baskets. Valued at over $250, the baskets includereusable items like produce bags, stainless steel snack containers and bambooutensil sets. A $200 ESP gift certificate will also be inside.

Academy Award nominees and presenters will luckily takehome an “Academy Awards Celebrity Gift Box” from Green PolkaDot Box, a company that provides organic andnatural goods. The recycled boxes willbe stuffed with aone-year GPDB savings membership, $75 in reward points and 48 organic products,such as Eden’s Pumpkin Seeds, Vermont Soap’s Oatmeal Lavender bars and St.Dalfour’s Black Raspberry Conserves. Well, at least the noms (who don’t win)won’t go empty-handed, but of course I’d rather go home with an Oscar.

OscarsPrepare Greeness for Next Year

TheOscars aren’t even here yet, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts andSciences is already planning for next year. They’ve partnered with EveryoneCounts Inc. to develop an electronicvoting system, rather than a paper one. This new electronic ballotwill not change the traditional tabulation of Academy members’ votes. It willalso remain tightly secured. Sounds like the 85th awards show is off to a goodstart!

It’s nice to see how the Academy Awards contribute to theenvironment, even in the smallest of ways. Also, be sure to check out our othergallery of “The Ten Most CharitableOscar Nominees” and see how the most talented actors and actressesare giving back to others.

A Few (Out of Many) Notable African Americans To Mention Throughout Black History Month

2012-02-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

February is African-American History Month. There are many African-Americans who have made a difference for the lives of African-Americans and the history, and future, of American History. Here are a few notable people to mention during African-American History Month.

Dr. George Washington Carver was a scientist, botanist, educator and inventor. His research gained him much worldwide acclaim. Additionally, his humanitarian efforts were well documented and he received much recognition for his selfless acts to help others. Franklin D. Roosevelt, Henry Ford and Thomas Edison are among many others who were fans of Dr. Carver.

Barack Obama, the current President of the United States, is the first African American to be elected President. Obama previously served as a United States Senator from Illinois from January 2005 until he resigned after his election to the presidency in November 2008.

Octavia Butler was an American science fiction writer, one of the best-known among the few African-American women in the field. She won both Hugo and Nebula awards. In 1995, she became the first science fiction writer to receive the MacArthur Foundation Genius Grant.

Mae Jemison is an American physician and NASA astronaut. She became the first African American woman to travel in space when she went into orbit abroad the Space Shuttle Endeavor on September 12, 1992.

Dr. Cater G. Woodson was an African-American historian, author, journalist and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. HE was one of the first scholars to value and study Black History. He recognized and acted upon the importance of people having an awareness and knowledge of their contributions to humanity, and left behind an impressive legacy. Dr. Woodson is known as the Father of Black History.

Bessie Coleman was an American civil aviator and was the first female pilot of African American descent. She was also the first person of African American descent to hold an international pilot license.

Maya Angelou is an American autobiographer and poet who has been called “America’s most visible black female autobiographer.” She is best known for her series of six autobiographical volumes, which focus on her childhood and early adult experiences. The first and most highly acclaimed, I Know Why the Caged Birds Sing, tells of her first seventeen years. It brought her international recognition and was nominated for a National Book Award. She has been awarded over 30 honorary degrees and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for her 1971 volume of poetry, Just Give Me a Cook Drink of Water ‘Fore I Die.

February 13, 1866: Jesse James' First Bank Robbery

2012-02-13T12:19:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

On February 13, 1866, Jesse James held up his first bank. Although Jesse was unable to actively participate in the robbery because of a near fatal chest wound he received shortly after the close of the Civil War, he planned the robbery of the Clay County Savings Bank in Liberty, Missouri for weeks. Jesse’s “gang” of thirteen or so men rode their horses to the front of the bank where Frank James and Cole Younger dismounted their horses and entered the bank. The encounter went down like this:

Cashier Greenup Bird went to help Frank James at the counter. Frank gave Bird a large bill and asked it to be changed. Suddenly, Frank yanked out his pistol and shoved it in Bird’s face. Cole Younger then pulled his pistol and jumped over the counter. Cold grabbed Bird’s son, William Bird, who was the only other person in the bank at the time. The Birds were handed a large grain sack and ordered to put all the money in the bank into the sack. The two Birds quickly put money into the sack, including a tin box of government bonds. The gang got away with $60,000. When all the money was stolen, Frank and Cole forced the Birds into the vault and slammed the door. The two bandits then ran outside. What they didn’t realize was that the vault wasn’t locked, so the two Birds just pushed it open after Frank and Cole left. The Birds ran to a window and began yelling “robbery!”

Two young men, George Wymore and S. H. Holmes, were walking down the street when this happened. When they stopped to see the robbers, who were now all outside and mounted, the robbers all drew their pistols and began firing into the air to scare Wymore and Holmes away. The method of firing into the air was an old guerrilla tactic which the gang would use again and again. Compulsive killer and gang member Arch Clements fired one shot at Holmes, but the bullet went through his coat. After the two began running away, Arch shot Wymore dead for no reason. The original plan was to have no one killed. It was foolish to bring Arch along since he was well known for killing “just for fun.” The thirteen bandits then rode out of town.

After the robbery, around two dozen men were listed as suspects. A few days after the robbery, the family of George Wymore received a letter from Jesse James, or someone claiming to be him, apologizing for the murder of Wymore. The letter went on to state that it was not the robbers’ intention to kill anyone. Since Jesse was not famous as a robber at this point in time (after all, this was the first bank robbery in America during peacetime), it is doubtful that anyone would impersonate him by signing this letter with his name. Therefore, the letter is probably authentic, and since it would have been nearly impossible for Jesse to actually participate in the robbery, the letter seems to prove that Jesse did help plan the robbery.

February is Black History Month

2012-02-10T13:39:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

February is Black History Month. Every year there’s a different theme for February’s celebration of Black History Month, also known as African American History Month. The 2012 theme for African American History Month is “Black Women in America: Culture and History.”

This national observance originated in 1926, by historian Carter G. Woodson as “Negro History Week.” Woodson chose the second week of February because it marked the birthdays of two Americans who greatly influenced the lives and social condition of African Americans; Abraham Lincoln, former President and abolitionist; and Frederick Douglass, a former slave.

National, social, scientific and political contributions by black Americans are recognized during Black History Month. Historic accounts related to the civil war era, the civil rights movement of 1955-1968, abolitionist movements, slavery in America, etc.

In honor of the celebration, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum has created interesting, interactive programs, starting on February 18^ththrough February 25^th. Click HERE for the full list of activities available to celebrate Black History Month.

Check out this "Origins of Black History Month" video, provided by History.com.

February 8, 1587, Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots Gets Beheaded in England & in 1910, The Boy Scouts of America is Founded!

2012-02-09T06:50:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

On February 8, 1587, Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, was beheaded at Fotheringhay, England, after 19 years as a prisoner of Queen Elizabeth I. She became entangled in the complex political events surrounding the Protestant Reformation in England and was charged with complicity in a plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth.

Mary, Queen of Scots, was queen regnant of Scotland from December 14, 1542 through July 24, 1567, and queen consort of France from July 10, 1559 through December 5, 1560. She was only nine months old when crowned Queens of Scots. Even though she was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle, in Northamptonshire, the tomb of Mary can be found at Westminster Abbey.

Later in time on February 8, 1910, the Boy Scouts of America was founded by William Boyce in Washington, D.C., modeled after the British Boy Scouts.

The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the US, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions. Since 1910, more than 110 million Americans have been members of the BSA.

New York Giants Bringing Home the Vince Lombardi Trophy, But the Winning Color of Super Bowl XLVI was GREEN!

2012-02-06T13:37:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Although the New York Giant’s are bringing home the Vince Lombardi Trophy, the overall winning color of the 2012 Super Bowl was not blue, but GREEN!

Sure, between air travel, overbooked hotels, packed bars, all-night parties, exhibits, fan activities and busloads of media crews, Super Bowl XLVI generated more solid waste and greenhouse gas emissions than there were yards rushed during the course of the game.

However, the folks at the NFL Environmental Program were committed to doing their part to help offset all of that. This year, the 18th year of the program, they seem determined to outdo anything else they’ve ever done. The slate of green programs for Super Bowl XLVI was pretty impressive.

This year’s NFL Environmental Program included a waste management effort designed to salvage recyclable and reusable trash, collection and donation of leftover food, and recovery of leftover decorations, office supplies and other materials that could be auctioned off, reused, donated or re-purposed.

The program also featured a book and sports equipment-donation center coordinated with local school districts, and a tree-planting program that will put thousands of new trees in local neighborhoods.

The program even covered team travel through the purchase of carbon offsets for air and ground transportation.

As for renewable energy initiatives, the NFL is looking not just to meet, but beat, its previous use of renewable energy.

The highlight is a renewable energy certificate purchase through the company Green Mountain Energy, which for the first time will cover all of the major venues, a total of six, instead of only covering the football stadium.

According to Green Mountain’s press materials, that means 15,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy, which will power “everything from the computers in the Motorola Super Bowl XLVI Media Center to the lights that shine down on the teams as they compete during Super Bowl.”

The NFL is also supporting the local “Rebuilding Together” program as its officially sanctioned charity, and as part of the Super Bowl festivities Green Mountain donated a rooftop solar array for a home involved in the program.

It would be a little much to ask Lucas Oil to install solar panels at Lucas Oil Stadium, but that’s the direction other NFL teams are going in. The Philadelphia Eagles have a comprehensive program that includes onsite wind, solar and biofuel to power their Lincoln Field exclusively with renewables.

The Washington Redskins are not too far behind; that franchise has partnered with the company NRG to install a two-megawatt solar array at FedEx Field. The array is part of a public awareness boost for renewable energy that also includes a solar power educational display prominently located outside the stadium.

Check out the 1^st and Green, a web-based program developed to encourage individuals, households and groups to make a difference in our environment by offsetting carbon emissions and saving water. The program was aimed to educate and change people’s habits to be more sustainable using the Super Bowl as a common ground. 1^st and Green was part of the NFL Environmental Program to create an environmentally responsible event.

January 1882: Franklin Delano Roosevelt Was Born

2012-02-01T12:35:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Assuming the Presidency at the depth of the Great Depression, Franklin D. Roosevelt helped the American people regain faith in themselves. He brought hope as he promised prompt, vigorous action, and asserted in his Inaugural Address, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Born in 1882 at Hyde Park, New York, Franklin attended Harvard University and Columbia Law School. On St. Patrick's Day, 1905, he married Eleanor Roosevelt.

Following the example of his fifth cousin, President Theodore Roosevelt, whom he greatly admired, Franklin D. Roosevelt entered public service through politics, but as a Democrat. He won election to the New York Senate in 1910. President Wilson appointed him Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and he was the Democratic nominee for Vice President in 1920.

In the summer of 1921, when he was 39, disaster hit-he was stricken with poliomyelitis. Demonstrating indomitable courage, he fought to regain the use of his legs, particularly through swimming. At the 1924 Democratic Convention he dramatically appeared on crutches to nominate Alfred E. Smith as "the Happy Warrior." In 1928 Roosevelt became Governor of New York.

He was elected President in November 1932, to the first of four terms. By March there were 13,000,000 unemployed, and almost every bank was closed. In his first "hundred days," he proposed, and Congress enacted, a sweeping program to bring recovery to business and agriculture, relief to the unemployed and to those in danger of losing farms and homes, and reform, especially through the establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority.

By 1935 the Nation had achieved some measure of recovery, but businessmen and bankers were turning more and more against Roosevelt's New Deal program. They feared his experiments, were appalled because he had taken the Nation off the gold standard and allowed deficits in the budget, and disliked the concessions to labor. Roosevelt responded with a new program of reform: Social Security, heavier taxes on the wealthy, new controls over banks and public utilities, and an enormous work relief program for the unemployed.

In 1936 he was re-elected by a top-heavy margin. Feeling he was armed with a popular mandate, he sought legislation to enlarge the Supreme Court, which had been invalidating key New Deal measures. Roosevelt lost the Supreme Court battle, but a revolution in constitutional law took place. Thereafter the Government could legally regulate the economy.

Roosevelt had pledged the United States to the "good neighbor" policy, transforming the Monroe Doctrine from a unilateral American manifesto into arrangements for mutual action against aggressors. He also sought through neutrality legislation to keep the United States out of the war in Europe, yet at the same time to strengthen nations threatened or attacked. When France fell and England came under siege in 1940, he began to send Great Britain all possible aid short of actual military involvement.

When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Roosevelt directed organization of the Nation's manpower and resources for global war.

Feeling that the future peace of the world would depend upon relations between the United States and Russia, he devoted much thought to the planning of a United Nations, in which, he hoped, international difficulties could be settled.

As the war drew to a close, Roosevelt's health deteriorated, and on April 12, 1945, while at Warm Springs, Georgia, he died of a cerebral hemorrhage.

Jan. 27, 1967: 3 Astronauts Die in Capsule Fire

2012-01-27T08:45:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Gus Grissom, Ed White and Roger Chaffee were killed on the launch pad when a flash fire engulfed their command module during testing for the first Apollo/Saturn mission. They are the first U.S. astronauts to die in the line of duty.

The command module, built by North American Aviation, was the prototype for those that would eventually accompany the lunar landers to the moon. Designated CM-012 by NASA, the module was a lot larger than those flown during the Mercury and Gemini programs, and was the first designed for the Saturn 1B booster.

Even before tragedy struck, the command module was criticized for a number of potentially hazardous design flaws, including the use of a more combustible, 100 percent oxygen atmosphere in the cockpit, an escape hatch that opened inward instead of outward, faulty wiring and plumbing, and the presence of flammable material.

Regarding the cabin atmosphere and hatch configuration, it was a case of NASA overruling the recommendations of the North American designers. North American proposed using a 60-40 oxygen/nitrogen mixture but because of fears over decompression sickness, and because pure oxygen had been used successfully in earlier space programs, NASA insisted on it being used again. NASA also dinged the suggestion that the hatch open outward and carry explosive bolts in case of an emergency mainly because a hatch failure in the Mercury program's Friendship 7 capsule had nearly killed Gus Grissom in 1961.

The test on Jan. 27 was a "plugs-out" launch simulation designed to see if the Apollo spacecraft could operate on internal power only. It was considered a non-hazardous test. Several problems delayed the beginning of the test until evening.

After the accident, NASA reduced the amount of flammable Velcro in the crew cabin, and tested many of the capsule's materials for flammability.

Now, as a result of the lessons learned from Apollo 1, many new materials have been developed for spaceflight with fire safety in mind. The insulation surrounding wires, for instance, is now made of a special coating so fire-resistant that it can't burn even when put in a pure oxygen environment.

While spacecraft safety has improved leaps and bounds since Apollo 1, the business of flying in space is still risky, and NASA aims to remember that. The Apollo 1 fire was not the last of NASA's deadly space accidents. Two fatal space shuttle accidents, one in 1986 and the other in 2003, killed 14 astronauts in all, forcing NASA each time to reexamine its spacecraft safety.

January 26, 1880: Douglas MacArthur Was Born

2012-01-26T07:21:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Douglas MacArthur was born on 26 January 1880 in Little Rock Arkansas, one of three sons of Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur. When Douglas was thirteen the family moved to San Antonio in Texas where he attended an Episcopalian school and later the West Texas Military Academy. In June 1899 he entered West Point Military Academy and graduated as valedictorian in 1903.

MacArthur commenced his professional military career as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army Corps of Engineers, serving for a time in the Philippines. In 1911, with the rank of Captain, MacArthur served as Officer-in-Charge at the Staff College at Leavenworth in Kansas and, following the death of his father in 1912, with the War Department in Washington DC. In 1915 he was promoted to Major and in 1916 became the Army's first ever public relations officer. Upon the entry of the US into the First World War, MacArthur served as Chief of Staff with the so-called Rainbow (42nd) Division, and was then appointed in June 1918 as the youngest ever Brigadier General and Commander of the 84th Infantry Brigade. Aided by his excellent war record MacArthur was appointed in June 1919 as Superintendent of West Point. From 1922 to 1925 he again served in the Philippines before returning to the United States as the youngest two star general in the US Army.

Following the break-up of his six year marriage to divorcee heiress Louise Crowell Brooks MacArthur had another two year tour of duty in the Philippines before his appointment in November 1930 as a full general and Chief of Staff of the United State Army. In this role in July 1932, in the depths of the Depression, there occurred the most infamous event of MacArthur's career when he led infantry and cavalry in Washington DC to force the evacuation from government property of more than 10,000 members of the so-called Bonus Army. This 'Army', alleged by MacArthur to be led by Communists, consisted of World War One Veterans who had been in the capital for several weeks seeking earlier payment of their promised war bonuses. Although no shots were fired, two babies died and there were many injuries when the veterans and their families were routed and their camps destroyed by fire.

In 1935 MacArthur reverted to the rank of Major General and served as Chief Military Adviser to the Commonwealth Government of the Philippines, helping prepare the islands for independence. He retired from the Army in 1937 and was included on the retired lists with the rank of full general (and the rank of Field Marshal in the Philippine Army). In April 1938, while coming to terms with the death of his mother, who had lived with him for much of the time since the break up of his first marriage, he married 39-year-old Jean Faircloth. The couple's only son, Arthur MacArthur IV, was born in 1938.

In July 1941 MacArthur was recalled to the Army and appointed Commanding General of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East. Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour in December, he was promoted to full general and ordered to defend the Philippine islands from invasion. However, with the military situation rapidly deteriorating, he was ordered to leave on 22 February 1942 delivering his famous parting message 'I shall return'. As Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in the SouthWest Pacific Area he initially had his command base in Melbourne where he arrived on 21 March but his headquarters were relocated in Brisbane from 20 July. In 1944 he returned to the Philippines and in December was promoted to the rank of General of the Army: Manila was liberated on 5 February 1945. At one stage it was envisaged that Macarthur would lead a massive invasion of Japan, an outcome which did not eventuate with the Emperor's announcement of a Japanese surrender following the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Instead it was MacArthur who formally received the Japanese surrender in September 1945.

Between 1946 and 1948 MacArthur, as Supreme Commander of the Allied powers, was responsible for overseeing the reconstruction of Japan, including creating the constitution promulgated in 1946. The new Japanese government took power in 1949. In the following year MacArthur was named Commander of all United Nations forces in Korea to lead the Allied counter offensive against North Korea. However in April 1951 he was recalled by President Truman after issuing a unilateral ultimatum to Mainland China. On 19 April in his farewell address to the US Congress, MacArthur concluded with reference to the old soldiers' barracks ballad, 'Old soldiers never die, they just fade away'.

After one unsuccessful attempt to run as a Republican for the US presidency, MacArthur spent his last years in New York apart from one visit to the Philippines in 1961 where he was decorated with the Philippine Legion of Honor. In May 1962 at West Point, when receiving the Sylvanus Thayer Award,he delivered his famous 'Duty, Honor, Country' valedictory speech.

On 5 April 1964 he died in Washington, survived by his wife (who died in 2000 at the age of 101) and was buried in his mother's birthplace-Norfolk, Virginia. DC. To date MacArthur and his father remain as one of only two father-son combinations both to have received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

The Top Winter Safety Tips From Plaza College

2012-01-24T06:41:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

With its cold and often stormy weather, winter presents many safety challenges both indoors and out. Being prepared and following simple safety tips can help you stay safe and warm this season.

Tips to Keep Your Home Safe and Warm:

Install a smoke alarm near bedrooms and on each floor of your home. Test it monthly! If it has a 9-volt battery, change the batter once a year.

Install a carbon monoxide alarm near bedrooms and on each floor of your home. If your alarm sounds, press the reset button, call emergency services (911 or your local fire department), and immediately move to fresh air (either outdoors or near an open door or window). Know the symptoms of CO poisoning: headache, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, get fresh air right away and contact a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Make sure heating equipment is installed properly. Have a trained specialist inspect and tune up your heating system each year.

Keep Children and Pets away from space heaters. Never leave children in a room alone when a space heater is in use.

Never use your range or oven to heat your home, even for a short time.

Tips To Survive a Winter Storm:

Be prepared before cold weather hits, make sure you have a way to heat your home during a power failure.

Keep on hand extra blankets, flashlights with extra batteries, matches, a first aid kit, manual can opener, snow shovel and rock salt, and special needs items.

Stock a few days supply of water, required medications, and food that does not need to be refrigerated or cooked.

Tips For Clearing Snow and Ice:

Dress warmly, paying special attention to feet, hands, nose, and ears.

Avid shoveling snow if you are out of shape. If you have a history of heart trouble, do not shovel snow unless your doctor says it's okay.

Do light warm-up exercises before shoveling and take frequent breaks for water.

Use rock salt or de-icing compounds to remove ice from steps, walkways, and sidewalks. Sand placed on walkways may also help prevent slipping.

Winter Safety Driving Tips:

Keep emergency gear in your car for everyday trips: cell phone, flashlight, jumper cables, sand or kitty litter, ice scraper, snow brush, small shovel, blankets, and warning devices.

For long car trips, keep food, water, extra blankets, and required medication on hand.

If you must travel in bad weather, drive slowly. Let someone know what route you're taking and when you plan to arrive so they can alert authorities if you don't get there.

Don't sit in a parked car with the engine running unless a window is open. Do not let your car run while parked in a garage.

If you car stalls or gets stuck in snow, light two flares and place one at each end of the car, a safe distance away. Make sure snow has not blocked the exhaust pipe. Then stay in your vehicle and open a window slightly to let in fresh air.

For more winter safety tips please click HERE.

January 19, 1809: Edgar Allen Poe Was Born

2012-01-19T08:18:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Edgar Allan Poe was born on January 19, 1809 in Boston, MA. American short-story writer, poet, critic, and editor Edgar Allan Poe's tales of mystery and horror introduced the modern detective story, and the atmosphere in his tales of horror is unsurpassed in American fiction.

His parents were David and Elizabeth Poe. David was born in Baltimore on July 18, 1784. Elizabeth Arnold came to the U.S. from England in 1796 and married David Poe after her first husband died in 1805. They had three children, Henry, Edgar, and Rosalie.

Elizabeth Poe died in 1811, when Edgar was only 2 years old. She had separated from her husband and taken her three kids with her. Henry went to live with his grandparents while Edgar was adopted by Mr. and Mrs. John Allan. Rosalie was taken in by another family. John Allan was a successful merchant, so Edgar grew up in good surroundings and went to good schools.

When Poe was 6, he went to school in England for 5 years. He learned Latin and French, as well as math and history. He later returned to school in America and continued his studies. Edgar Allan went to the University of Virginia in 1826. Edgar developed a drinking problem while at school and in less than a year, dropped out.

In 1835, Edgar finally got a job as an editor of a newspaper because of a contest he won with his story, "The Manuscript Found in a Bottle."

In 1836, Edgar married his cousin, Virginia. He was 27 and she was 13. As the editor for the Southern Literary Messenger, Poe successfully managed the paper and increased its circulation from 500 to 3,500 copies. Despite his success, Poe left the paper in early 1836, complaining of the poor salary. In 1837, Edgar went to New York and wrote "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym."

In 1840, Edgar Poe joined George R. Graham as an editor for Graham's Magazine. During the two years that Poe worked for Graham's, he published his first detective story, "The Murders in the Rue Morgue" and challenged readers to send in cryptograms, which he always solved. During the time Poe was editor, the circulation of the magazine rose from 5,000 to 35,000 copies. Poe left Graham's in 1842 because he wanted to start his own magazine. Shortly after, his magazine failed.

His wife, Virginia, died in 1847, 10 days after Edgar's birthday. After losing his wife, Poe collapsed from stress but gradually returned to health later that year.

On October 3, Poe was found at Gunner's Hall, a public house at 44 East Lombard Street, and was taken to the hospital. He lapsed in and out of consciousness but was never able to explain exactly what happened to him. Edgar Allan Poe died in the hospital on Sunday, October 7, 1849.

The mystery surrounding Poe's death has led to many myths and urban legends.

To view Edgar Allan Poe's literature click HERE.

Benjamin Franklin's Birthday: January 17, 1706

2012-01-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, MA on January 17, 1706. May by his life alone be the most profound statement of what an American strives to be.

With no formal education after the age of 10 years, Franklin was celebrated throughout Europe, greeted in any Royal Court, sought out by every prestigious society. When the reputations of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson had yet to be sorted out, Franklin was worshipped wherever his name was known.

He attended grammar school at age eight, but was put to work at ten. He apprenticed as a printer to his brother James, who printed the New England Courant, at age twelve, and published his first article there, anonymously, in 1721. Young Benjamin was an avid reader, inquisitive and skeptical. Through his satirical articles, he poked fun at the people of Boston and soon wore out his welcome, both with his brother and with the city. He ran away to New York and then on to Philadelphia at the age of 16, looking for work as a printer. He managed a commission to Europe for the purpose of buying supplies to establish a new printing house in Philadelphia, but found himself abandoned when he stepped off ship.

Through hard work and frugality he bought his fare back to Philadelphia in 1732 and set up shop as a printer. He was appointed clerk of the Pennsylvania Assembly in 1736, and as Postmaster the following year. In 1741 he began publishing Poor Richard's Almanac, a very popular and influential magazine. He was elected to the Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751 and served as an agent for Pennsylvania to England, France, and several other European powers.

He was elected to the Continental Congress in 1775, where he played a crucial role in the rebellion against Gr. Britain, including service to Jefferson in editing the Declaration of Independence. Franklin, who was by this time independently wealthy and retired from publishing, continued to serve an important role in government both local and national. He was the United States first Postmaster General, Minister to the French Court, Treaty agent and signer to the peace with Gr. Britain, Celebrated Member of the Constitutional convention.

Benjamin Franklin was a Businessman, Writer, Publisher, Scientist, Diplomat, Legislator, and Social activist, was one of the earliest and strongest advocates for the abolition of Slavery, and for the protection of the rights of American aboriginal peoples. He died on the 17th of April in 1790. On that day he was still one of the most celebrated characters in America. So should he always be.

What Happened On This Day in 1990? First African American Governor of Virginia.

2012-01-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Lawrence Douglas Wilder is an American politician who became the first African American to be elected as governor of Virginia. He is also known as the first African American to serve as governor of a U.S. state.

Wilder was born on January 17, 1931 in Richmond, VA as the seventh of eight children. He attended George Mason Elementary School and Armstrong High School, then racially segregated. He did his undergraduate work at Virginia Union University, where he graduated with a degree in chemistry in 1951.

Wilder served in the Korean War, earning a Bronze Star for heroism at Pork Chop Hill. He rose to leadership in his first experience in an integrated organization, as President Truman had desegregated the military in 1948. After his service, Wilder earned a law degree at Howard University School of Law under the G.I. Bill. Virginia university law schools did not then admit African Americans. He graduated in 1959 and returned to Richmond to co-found the law firm of Wilder, Gregory, and Associates.

Douglas Wilder began his career in public office after winning a 1969 special election to the Senate of Virginia from a Richmond-area district. He was the first African American elected as state Senator in Virginia since Reconstruction. A 1970 redistricting gave Wilder a predominantly African-American district, and he was repeatedly re-elected into the 1980s. Although a liberal in a conservative legislature, he worked hard and gained influence through committee chairmanships when he gained seniority.

Since Wilder's career in public office, he has continued as an adjunct professor in public policy at Virginia Commonwealth University. He writes occasional editorials for Virginia papers, and is still considered to be very influential in Virginia politics.

To find out more about Lawrence Douglas Wilder please click HERE.

The History On The Harm Of Cigarettes: Tips To Help You Quit

2012-01-11T11:08:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

On January 11, 1964 the U.S. Surgeon General declared cigarettes may be hazardous to health, the first such official government report.

In 1964, the US was a country where over 50% of adult males smoked and 46% of all Americans smoked. Smoking was accepted in offices, airplanes, elevators, and even cartoon TV programs were sponsored by cigarette brands.

It was a country where a multi-billion dollar industry and a way of life were severely threatened by the Surgeon General Report's astounding conclusion: SMOKING CAUSES CANCER! Within 3 months of this report, cigarette consumption had dropped 20%.

Since this statement, every year hundreds of thousands of people around the world die from diseases caused by smoking cigarettes. One in two lifetime smokers will die from their habit. Half of these deaths will occur in middle age. For more facts and statistics on the harm of smoking cigarettes click HERE.

If you are currently a smoker and would like to know how to stop, please view helpful quitting tips below.

Believe in yourself. Believe that you can quit. Think about
some of the most difficult things you have done in your life and
realize that you have the guts and determination to quit
smoking. It's up to you.

After reading this list, sit down and write your own list,
customized to your personality and way of doing things. Create
you own plan for quitting.

Write down why you want to quit:
live longer, feel better, for your family, save money, smell
better, find a mate more easily, etc. You know what's bad about
smoking and you know what you'll get by quitting. Put it on
paper and read it daily.

Ask your family and friends to support your decision to quit.
Ask them to be completely supportive and non-judgmental. Let
them know ahead of time that you will probably be irritable and
even irrational while you withdraw from your smoking habit.

Set a quit date. Decide what day you will extinguish your
cigarettes forever. Write it down. Plan for it. Prepare your
mind for the "first day of the rest of your life". You might
even hold a small ceremony when you smoke you last cigarette, or
on the morning of the quit date.

To view more tips click HERE!

New York City Marathon Returns to Live National TV in 2012

2012-01-09T11:07:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

The ING New York City Marathon will be aired on live national television in 2012 for the first time in almost 20 years, announced today by WABC-TV/ESPN and NYRR officials. The Marathon will be televised live nationally on ESPN2 and accessible through ESPN from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET/6:00 to 9:30 a.m. PT, and in New York on WABC-TV and 7online.com from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. That same afternoon, ABC will broadcast nationally a two-hour Marathon highlight show. The agreement begins with this year’s event on Sunday, November 4.

The extraordinary partnership will also highlight coverage of ING New York City Marathon weekend events and other marquee NYRR races throughout the year. The deal reunites NYRR with ABC, which carried the first live national broadcast of the Marathon in 1981 and where it aired until 1993.

“The ING New York City Marathon is one of the greatest spectacles in all of sport, and today’s announcement is a huge step forward in bringing all of the event’s passion and excitement into homes, live, across the country,” said Mary Wittenberg, president and CEO of NYRR and race director of the ING New York City Marathon.

“We’re thrilled that for the first time in almost 20 years, a nationwide audience can experience the 26.2 exhilarating miles that combine the spectacle of great racing with the triumphant celebration of the human spirit—a captivating drama starring more than 47,000 runners, including the world’s best, played out on the vibrant streets of New York City,” said Wittenberg. “The scope of this agreement, which also showcases the events surrounding the Marathon as well as other marquee NYRR races throughout the year, is a significant step forward as we seek to develop and promote our sport.”

The first New York City Marathon was held in 1970, with 127 competitors running multiple loops around the Park Drive of Central Park. Only about 100 viewers watched Gary Muhrcke win the race in 2:31:38. Their were a total of 55 runners that crossed the finish line. Since then, the marathon grew larger and larger and incorporated all five boroughs of New York City. Two years late Norwegian, Grete Waitz, broke the women's world record, finishing in 2:32:30.

An official wheelchair and handcycle division was introduced in 2000, and starting in 2002, the elite women are given a 35 minute headstart before the elite men and rest of the field. The New York City Marathon has now become the largest marathon anywhere in the world. Each year nearly two million cheering spectators line the course from all different neighborhoods of New York.

New Year’s Resolutions for College Students

2012-01-04T07:20:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

The new year is here, which means there is plenty of time to get motivated and make your New Year’s resolutions. Whether you’re committing to cut down on technology usage or swearing to stop eating junk food, the key to success is taking baby steps. Here are a few simple ways to make intimidating resolutions become much more manageable from http://nextgenjournal.com.

1. Stop Procrastinating: Giving up use of the computer or other electronics is not an easy task. Give yourself reasonable time limits throughout the day to use technology (cellphones, computers, ipads, etc). You can apply this technique to your favorite distraction; just make sure that your breaks are proportional to the amount of work you need to get done.

2. Get Organized: The beginning of a new term is a great opportunity to get organized. If by the end of last semester your room started to get messy, try to avoid the chaos by investing in some organizations tools: folders. Most school supply stores sell folders, so try to buy one for every class and make it a habit to place all handouts and assignments into the correct folder at the end of every day. Once it becomes a routine, it’ll be simple to follow, and you’ll thank yourself later when you’re looking for that one quiz you want to review before you take a midterm or final.

3. Lead a Healthier Lifestyle: Between class, work, and studying, it can be a challenge to eat healthy, especially when living on a tight budget. If you find yourself eating microwaveable meals and junk food a bit too often, try to make small changes that your body will appreciate. Eat at least one fresh fruit and one fresh vegetable per day. If that sounds easy, see if you can eat one with every meal. Have vegetarian nights with friends and switch to low fat or soy milk to eat with oatmeal or cereal. If possible, incorporate some super foods like acai berry, blueberries, salmon, green tea, and soy into your diet. They’re easy to find and can help prevent heart disease, cholesterol, and even cancer.

4. Exercise!: If you can’t make it to the gym, see if you can do some stretches and crunches at home or walk somewhere that you’d usually take a bus or car to get to. Believe it or not, walking around campus all day from class to class burns major calories, too, so you’re likely getting a workout without even knowing it, especially if you’re lugging heavy books around.

5. Manage Stress Effectively: College life is stressful for tons of reasons, and sometimes it’s important to just take the time to stop and reboot. Make time every day to relax and do something that makes you happy, no matter how busy you get. Take a quick nap, Skype with a friend from home, or play a video game, whatever does it for you. Remember, even if you have a massive project due the next day, or an exam that you absolutely need to study for, five or ten minutes won’t make or break your grade but can do wonders for your mental health.

6. Sleep: Sleep is a hot commodity at college, and while getting the recommended eight hours per night is often highly improbable, it’s a good goal to have. Busy nights are one thing, but staying up late for no apparent reason isn’t a great idea. If you don’t have too much schoolwork, head to bed early, even if it’s only 9 p.m. That way you’ll have much more energy for studying and working.

7. Save Money: How much money do you think you spend on coffee per year? If the average cup is about $2.00 and the average American has about two cups per day, then that adds up to just under $1500. Save money by brewing your favorite blend at home and bringing it with you in a portable cup.

Physical Activity May Help Children's Grades

2012-01-03T12:02:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

While physical activity is known to advance a child's physical health and lower their risk of obesity, new studies show it may also help them perform better in school.

Dutch researchers reviewed 14 previous studies from multiple parts of the world that looked at the relationship between physical activity and academic performance. Their review was published in the journal Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.

The data from the studies "suggests there is a significant positive relationship between physical activity and academic performance," wrote the authors, led by Amika Singh of the Vrije Universiteit University Medical Center's EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research in Amsterdam.

While they did not examine the reasons why the relationship may exist, the authors said regular physical activity seems to be linked to better brain function. The effect on the brain could be the results of a number of factors, including increased flow of blood and oxygen to the brain as well as higher levels of chemicals that help improve mood.

This latest report comes at a time when schools across the country debate cutting physical education from their curriculum or have already eliminated it because of budget constraints. There is also concern that physical activity in schools can be harmful to academic performance.

But in addition to the latest research review, a 2010 literature review done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that out of 50 studies, more than half showed a positive association between school-based physical activity, such as physical education, recess and extracurricular sports, and academic performance and about half found no effect. Only a few showed a negative relationship that could be attributable to chance.

Some of the research reported that concentration, memory, self-esteem and verbal skills were among the improvements noted in students who participated in school-based physical activity.

"School boards, school administrators and principals can feel confident that maintaining or increasing time dedicated for physical activity during the school day will not have a negative impact on academic performance, and it may positively impact students' academic performance," the CDC's authors wrote.

New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

2011-12-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

The New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square is perhaps the most famous New Year's Eve celebration in the world.

New Year's Eve in Times Square has been a huge celebration since 1904, even though the first Ball Drop was not until 1907. Since 1907, the ball has been dropped once a year from Times Square, except in 1942 and 1943 due to wartime restrictions on lighting in New York City.

There have been many different types of balls dropped from Times Square in the past years, but a new ball was introduced in 2008. It's a 12 foot geodesic sphere, double the size of previous Balls, and weighs 11,875 pounds. That is the same weight as a Dodge Ram 3500 Pick-up truck!

As the ball drops from Times Square starting at 11:59 p.m. on New Year's Eve, there are typically more than one million people in Times Square and millions of people watching the ball drop from around the world. Once the ball drops, 1 ton of confetti will be released over Times Square.

It is free and there are no tickets to attend the New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square.

Here are some tips from About.com of what to bring and wear for the New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Times Square.

1. Dress in Plenty of Warm Layers

Even if it's fairly mild in the afternoon of New Year's Eve, the temperature is bound to drop as Midnight approaches, so be prepared with plenty of warm clothing, including a hat, scarf, and gloves.

2. Comfortable Shoes & Socks

New Year's Eve in Times Square is no time for wearing your Jimmy Choos. You will be standing for many hours, so wear comfortable, broken in shoes and warm socks.

3. Bring Your Camera

You'll want to record the ball dropping, fun moments with your friends, and preserve the memory of this unique experience. Read up on taking pictures at night so you can get the best possible shots.

4. Food

Snacks, like granola bars, energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit are great ways to keep yourself from getting hungry while in Times Square. It's also a good idea to have a nice big lunch before you head to Times Square.

5. Drinks

Despite the fact that you won't want to stop at a bathroom, you also won't want to get dehydrated. While alcohol is not officially permitted, there are always people popping open bottles of champagne at midnight.

6. An Autograph Book

One of the greatest things about celebrating New Year's Eve in Times Square is all of the folks from around the world that you will meet during the festivities. Bring along an autograph book (& pen) or do like my friend did and have your new friends sign your t-shirt!

7. Friends

It's always best to celebrate the New Year with your friends. You'll also have a chance to make new friends, so be friendly and welcoming to those around you. Keep your old friends together using a balloon, your cell phone, or even matching T-shirts.

8. Sound Unappealing? Attend an Event at a Hotel, Restaurant or Bar in Times Square

Reservations are essential, but if you're at a restaurant, bar or hotel in Times Square there's a good chance you'll be able to step outside and watch the ball drop at midnight.

New York Jets V.S. New York Giants: The Big Apple Battle

2011-12-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

The highly anticipated Jets V.S. Giants game will be taking place tomorrow, December 23 2011, at 1:00 PM EST on FOX! The Giants take on the Jets, with both teams competing in their divisions for a playoff spot.

This game clearly has enormous leverage on both teams’ playoff chances. If the Giants win, they gain an advantage, hosting the Cowboys in Week 17 with the winner taking the division. That will give them a 59 percent chance of making the playoffs. If the Giants lose to the Jets, they are left with only a 7 percent chance of making it to the postseason; they would have to beat the Cowboys and depend on assistance to get in.

If the Jets win this week, they will have the inside track for the wild card. They would control their chances in Week 17, as a win over Miami, which is a 60 percent chance. That would keep their season alive. Should they lose to the Giants, they’re still alive, but would need serious help!

Imperative games like this are not too unusual at this time of year, but it is a treat for fans when both teams have so much on the line and they share a home stadium.

How much home-field advantage should we expect the Jets to have, when there will be no plane or train travel involved? The crowd will be mostly Jets season-ticket holders, but there will no doubt be a considerable number of Giants infiltrators. Will green signage instead of blue signage surrounding the field matter? Will the Giants’ standing on the visitor sideline matter?

With that in mind, this will be one of the most enjoyable games to watch for all fans and especially, New Yorkers.

Holiday Season Travel Tips for Drivers, Fliers and Commuters

2011-12-21T11:35:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

U.S. Airlines reported that fewer people will be flying this holiday season, but flights will still be crowded.

Airlines for America predicted that about 43.3 million travelers will fly on U.S. carriers over the three-week holiday period, which is a 1 percent decline from last year. That works out to about 20,000 fewer people per day. "The trade group attributes the decline to lingering economic concerns and high energy prices that are limiting would-be travelers’ disposable income."

About 1.6 million to 2.3 million people are projected to fly each day between December 21st and the first week of January.

Whether you're traveling by air or by land, make sure to check out these tips from IB Traveler before you head out to maximize holiday travel happiness and minimize coal-in-the-stocking grief.

Know When to Travel - AAA estimates that 91 percent of holiday travelers will use the nation's roadways. If you can avoid traveling at peak times, you'll have a more enjoyable trip.

Check Road Conditions - If you are traveling in a cold or mountainous region, make sure to check the road conditions before you head out. Forecasters warn travel conditions across much of the West and Midwest will be "dangerous, if not impossible" Wednesday and Thursday due to blizzard conditions. Make sure to check conditions before you hit the road.

Know what to Pack - If you're stuck in traffic on the highway in the middle of nowhere, you're going to want to have some drinks and snacks on hand to hold you over. In addition to snacks, make a point of packing for automotive emergencies. Make sure your car has a flashlight, blankets, a car cellphone charger, a can of aerosol tire repair, duct tape, and motor oil ... just in case.

Check Gas Prices - According to the Lundberg Survey of fuel prices released Sunday, the average price of gasoline is $3.24 per gallon, slightly higher than last year. Check AAA's Fuel Gauge Report or the Web site Gas Buddy to find the best spots to fuel up and save.

Rest Up - Get at least 6-8 hours of sleep the night before a long trip. Fatigue decreases reaction time and awareness. The last thing you need on your holiday is an accident.

Tips for the Air

Travel Light - Traveling light will save you time and money, especially with increasingly hefty checked-bag fees.

Print out your Boarding Pass: Get this done at home before you leave and head straight to security when you get to the airport. Also, make sure your name is spelled correctly on the itinerary before it becomes a problem with security.

Check for Delays - Before you head to the airport, double-check for flight delays. You can also sign up through an airline's Web site for flight-delay alerts. Similarly, have a number for your airline handy in case of flight cancellations.

Don't Wrap Gifts - TSA urges travelers not to wrap gifts until they've arrived at their destination. Furthermore, food items such as salsas, jams, sauces, syrups and dips will not be allowed through the checkpoint unless they are in containers three ounces or less and in your one quart zip-top bag.

Get to the Airport Early - Allow at least two hours for check-in and security lines, even for short domestic flights.

Don't Forget Your ID - Any passenger 18 and older will need a federal or state-issued photo ID at airport checkpoints. All passengers traveling internationally will need their passport. Forgetting an ID or passport can make or break your trip.

Free Wi-Fi - Skype is offering a gift for all holiday travelers: Free Wi-Fi. From Dec. 21-27, travelers passing through over 50 airports across the country will be able to access third-party hotspots using Skype Wi-Fi and connect with loved ones via Skype video or voice calls for free.

Don't Stress - Relax, it's the holidays! Consider splurging on a day pass to an airline lounge for nice seats, tasty drinks, and less crowds.

Tips for Mass Transportation

Check for delays - It's important to watch the local news for mass transit closings and delays.

View the Weather Report - Be sure to watch the local weather channel for a full 48 weather forecast. It is easiest to plan a head when you know what to expect.

Dress warmly - Mass transit can shut down at anytime. It's important to keep yourself warm in case of an emergency where you might be stuck for a long time.

Bring Water and Snacks - In case of an emergency it is always important to stay hydrated and have nutrition.

Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for 2012: What are your New Year's Resolutions?

2011-12-19T08:43:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

New Year's Eve is acknowledged as a time for looking back to the past and setting new goals for the near future. It's a time to inspire yourself to make the changes you want or need, and most importantly, following through on those changes. View the top 10 list of New Year's Resolutions from Pittsburgh.about.com and let Plaza College know what your New Year's Resolutions are for 2012!

1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends

In recent polls conducted by General Nutrition Centers, statistics shows that more that 50% of American vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year. Make plans to meet up with friends or family for an evening.

2. Fit in Fitness

Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits that anything else known to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better. Why not make this the time to start getting in shape.

3. Focus on Weight-Loss

Over 66 percent of adult Americans are considered overweight or obese by recent studies, so it is not surprising to find that weight loss is one of the most popular New Year's resolutions. Setting reasonable goals and staying focused are the two most important factors in sticking with a weight loss program, and the key to success for those millions of Americans who made a New Year's commitment to shed extra pounds.

4. Quit Smoking

If you have resolved to make this the year that you stamp out your smoking habit, over-the-counter availability of nicotine replacement therapy now provides easier access to proven quit-smoking aids. Even if you've tried to quit before and failed, don't let it get you down. On average, smokers try about four times before they quit for good. Start enjoying the rest of your smoke-free life! Even Allegheny County is trying to go smoke-free, and it's taken them a few tries as well. Locally, there are a variety of free support services, hotlines and smoking cessation classes to help you kick the smoking habit.

5. Enjoy Life More

Given the hectic, stressful lifestyles of millions of Americans, it is no wonder that "enjoying life more" has become a popular resolution in recent years. It's an important step to a happier and healthier you!

6. Quit Drinking

While many people use the New Year as an incentive to finally stop drinking, most are not equipped to make such a drastic lifestyle change all at once. Many heavy drinkers fail to quit cold turkey but do much better when they taper gradually, or even learn to moderate their drinking. If you have decided that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available. There are also a number of treatment-based programs, as well as support groups for families of alcoholics.

7. Get Out of Debt

Was money a big source of stress in your life last year? Join the millions of Americans who have resolved to spend this year getting a handle on their finances. It's a promise that will repay itself many times over in the year ahead.

8. Learn Something New

Have you vowed to make this year the year to learn something new? Perhaps you are considering a career change, want to learn a new language, or just how to fix your computer? Whether you take a course or read a book, you'll find education to be one of the easiest, most motivating New Year's resolutions to keep.

9. Help Others

A popular, non-selfish New Year's resolution, volunteerism can take many forms. Whether you choose to spend time helping out at your local library, mentoring a child, or building a house, there are many nonprofit volunteer organizations that could really use your help. If your time is really in short supply, maybe you can at least find it in you to donate the furniture, clothing and other household items that you no longer need, rather than leaving them out by the curb to fill up our landfills.

10. Get Organized

On just about every New Year resolution top ten list, organization can be a very reasonable goal. Whether you want your home organized enough that you can invite someone over on a whim, or your office organized enough that you can find the stapler when you need it, these tips and resources should get you started on the way to a more organized life.

Today is Free Shipping Day! Tips to Buy Wise and Ship Free

2011-12-16T09:02:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Free Shipping Day is know to be one of the BEST days of the year for online shopping. This year, more than 2,000 online merchants are participating!

There are many things to look out for when purchasing your gifts online. Beware of minimum spending thresholds, free shipping on select items only or on non-sale merchandise, and hidden return shipping costs. Read the fine print and consider all of these options before heading to the free shipping bandwagon.

90 percent of consumers spend more when offered free delivery and nearly 50 percent of consumers won't go through with their online order if they run into steep fees during the checkout process. The term for this is, "abandoned shopping carts." It's one of the biggest issues an e-commerce company faces, and free shipping takes that obstacle out of the equation.

Free Shipping Day may actually be bigger than Cyber Monday. "When you look at last year, Cyber Monday sales were just over $1 billion -- up 16 percent from the year prior, and Free Shipping Day was $942,000 -- up a whopping 61 percent," CBS News contributor and personal finance expert Regina Lewis stated. "We'll see. Perhaps the best indicator is that fact that FedEx, which has extensive forecasting capability, says its expecting to deliver 17 million shipments on Monday -- the busiest day in the company's 40 year history -- fueled by e-commerce sales. In other words, what people order today, gets shipped Monday."

The promotion for free shipping may not last. She explained, "Free shipping has started to be a consumer expectation. The big players, like Amazon, who have fine-tuned their distribution models, are in the best position to offer it year-round for a nominal annual fee. Other big (online retailers) offer it intermittently as a promotion. ... Free shipping will be most widely-available (on Free Shipping Day), because it is still based on standard U.S. shipping rates, which the merchants are willing to absorb. Then, it's definitely not a given and will phase out quickly. By Monday, you're going to start to run into expedited shipping charges, because retailers aren't going to be willing to absorb premium rates. Keep in mind, they have to pay the UPS and FedExes of the world. They'll pass those off to you, and you'll be boxed in if you're trying to get something under a tree in time for Christmas morning. Better hustle!"

Go to Free Shipping Day.com to see which retailers are participating!

New Dinosaur Species Discovered in 1916?

2011-12-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

A new species of horned dinosaur known as Spinops sternbergorum has been discovered in the vaults of the Natural History Museum.

The remains of the herbivores, from the same family as the Triceratops, were excavated from a quarry alongside a large group of fossils in a so-called "bone bed" in Alberta, Canada in 1916.

The bones were described as "rubbish" by the Museum's Keeper of Geology at the time, and lay unnoticed for almost 100 years before experts realized they belonged to an undescribed species.

They were rediscovered by a current group of researchers who decided to take another look at the fossils and realized that they were unlike any others known to science.

Dr. Andrew Farke, who led the research team, said: "I knew right away that these fossils were something unusual, and it was very exciting to learn about their convoluted history.

"Here we have not just one, but multiple individuals of the same species, so we're confident that it's not just an odd example of a previously known species."

Mammograms Cut Risk Of Breast Cancer Death By Half

2011-12-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

Women who get routine mammograms can lower their risk of dying from breast cancer by nearly half, a new Dutch study suggests.

"Our study adds further to the evidence that mammography screening unambiguously reduces breast cancer mortality," said Dr. Suzie Otto, a senior researcher in the department of public health at Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The routine screening also decreased the chances of being diagnosed with an advanced cancer, she said.

To view this study online click HERE.

Mammography screening, including the best schedule and the best age to begin, is being hotly debated in the United States and elsewhere. A great number of experts think women should start getting them at age 40. Other think women should discuss the pros and cons of the test at 40, decide on an individual basis and start screens routinely at 50. Otto's study only looked at women aged 49 and older.

Otto traced 755 patients who died from breast cancer from 1995 to 2003 and another 3,739 control patients corresponded by age and other measures.

Among the women with breast cancer, nearly 30 percent of tumors were found at screening and about 34 percent between screens. Nearly 36 percent of these women had never had a mammogram.

Advanced tumors were found in about 30 percent of the patients who had never been screened but in just over 5 percent of those who had mammograms.

Women who experienced screening reduced their risk of dying from breast cancer by 49 percent. Women aged 70 to 75 had the greatest risk reduction, reducing the risk of dying from breast cancer by 84 percent. The risk reduction in younger women, aged 50 to 69, was smaller, at 39 percent, but still considered substantial.

The greater risk reduction in women aged 70 to 75, Otto said, is probably a result of the long-term good effects of screening participation in the earlier target age group, 50 to 69, before the upper age limit for screening was extended in the Netherlands from 69 to 75.

The study findings "add to the body of evidence supporting the fact that mammography matters in improving detection and survival," said Dr. Stephanie Bernik, chief of surgical oncology at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. "This study focuses on survival."

The study, however, has some limitations, Bernik noted. It's not clear, for instance, whether the women who died of cancer got less aggressive treatment or refused treatment. That could have affected survival, of course.

Mammography does lead to "overtreatment" in some cases, Bernik acknowledged. Some cancers that are found on mammography may not have proven to be an issue in a woman's lifetime. "But there is no way to figure out which cancers will be a problem or not," she said.

70 Years Later, Pearl Harbor Survivor Tells of Attack

2011-12-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

Plaza College

# 202, 74-09 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

www.plazacollege.edu (718) 779-1430

*** Press Release ***

89-Year-Old William Muehleib will visit the place where 70 years ago the sound of Japanese bombs exploding awoke him.

William is one of about 120 survivors of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which killed 2,400 Americans, sunk 12 ships and destroyed 188 aircraft's. These heroic survivors returned to the Hawaiian island of Oahu for its 70th anniversary.

There is no exact figure on living survivors, but the Pearl Harbor Survivors Assn. has 2,700 registered members, said Muehleib, the group’s president. The association estimates that there are between 7,000 and 8,000 who are still living, Muehleib stated.

As an 18-year-old, Muehleib was sent to Hawaii’s Hickam Field, adjacent to Pearl Harbor, as a member of the Army Air Corps to begin aircraft mechanics school.

In November 1941, he and 250 other soldiers were told that instead of classes, they would be forming a ground force battalion and be on 24-hour patrol at the airfield. But on Dec. 5, the men were told they would no longer be on patrol and instead would be going back to school.

Two days later, while sleeping under tents, he and his fellow soldiers were awakened by the sounds of airplanes and explosions.

“I could see underneath the tent flaps Japanese planes dropping bombs,” he said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. “I couldn’t believe it was happening.”

After the initial shock, the soldiers fired with their personal weapons as they awaited trucks to take them to their duty stations, Muehleib said. When the trucks came, they piled in and rode over the runways as bombs exploded around them and bullets from Japanese aircraft rained down. They eventually arrived at their gun stations and fought back.

In the weeks following the attack, there were moments of joy, such as when he came across a friend who had survived; and others of extreme sadness, when he heard of friends who perished, Muehleib said.

Today, returning to the site of the attacks can be difficult, but also heartening.

“It's touching. You get choked up sometimes,” he said. “It brings into focus the experience you had that day.”

Many of the survivors come to recall the moment of the attack with one another, not to seek acknowledgment of their efforts. “It is something that happened to us; it was a bonding experience,” he said. “We aren’t looking for accolades or special recognition.”

To many, each anniversary takes on greater importance, as the window to honor those who survived is rapidly closing. Many survivors, who are now in their 80s and 90s, do not worry about being forgotten, Muehleib said.

With the substantial investment the federal government has made in commemorating the attacks, including a sprawling new $56-million Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, what happened on Dec. 7, 1941, will not be forgotten.

“We have no fear of it slowly sliding into oblivion"