Kiplinger Names Top Private Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges of 2014

Although it may seem more challenging than ever to provide a quality education while keeping costs low, many colleges and universities across the country are succeeding on both counts.

Based in Washington, D.C., Kiplinger is a publisher of personal finance advice and business forecasts, available in software, video, audio, online and print products. The company’s yearly list ranks the top 100 liberal arts colleges and 100 private universities. The total ranking points were divided by cost criteria (45 percent) and quality criteria (55 percent).

The colleges on this list exemplify the key attributes that students and parents are seeking in higher education, including student indebtedness, financial aid, cost, academic support, four-year graduation rates and competitiveness. [Read more…]

Airline Industry Suffers from Rising Fuel Costs, Shortage of Pilots

fuel-pricesIn a new report from the Government Accountability Office, there are currently fewer airplane seats and fewer flights available as compared with numbers from 2007.

Seats have declined 9 percent and flights 9 percent at larger airports, the study said. In smaller destinations, seats were down 18 percent and flights fell by 24 percent.

Only rural communities have avoided the impact of this trend. The study authors noted that many of the positive developments in the airline industry are a result of congressional efforts to keep small airports afloat. The number of flights serving Essential Air Service airports has increased about 20 percent since 2007, and the number of seats are up 8 percent. Of the 160 airports featured in the program, 43 are located in Alaska. [Read more…]

Marla Ahlgrimm on Proper Skin Care

Marla AhlgrimmMany women are looking for ways to fight the signs of aging, notes pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm. However, when researching all the products designed to reduce oil, banish pimples, and clean pores, the overwhelming glut of information can be quite confusing. In this recent conversation, Marla Ahlgrimm shares how a few home remedies may help women in their quest for better skin care.

A Gathering of Experts: A warm welcome to you!

Marla Ahlgrimm: Thank you so much, I’m grateful to be here today.

A Gathering of Experts: We’re so glad you could join us to talk about skin care for today’s women.

Marla Ahlgrimm: I’ve been looking forward to it for quite some time… [Read more…]

Philadelphia Earns Praise as the Number-One City for Small Business

PhiladelphiaA pair of new surveys reveal interesting developments about business creation in America’s leading cities.

Biz2Credit Hails the City of Brotherly Love as a Small-Business Mecca

A tribute to the city’s standard of living and relatively low operation costs, Philadelphia has the unique ability to attract startups and help enhance their profitability, according to Biz2Credit.

Biz2Credit is one of America’s leading business loan companies. Its annual survey, “Best U.S. Cities for Small Business,” examines early-stage businesses in terms of average credit scores, age of business and average revenue. Besides Philadelphia, cities near the top of the list included San Francisco, California; Denver, Colorado; Detroit-Dearborn, Michigan; and San Jose, California. [Read more…]

Q & A with the Dentist Professionals: Root Canals and You

If you have a deep cavity or broken tooth, a root canal may be in order. Here, Dentist experts answer questions on this common procedure and offer advice on how to find a dentist to treat your condition.

Q: What exactly is a root canal?

A: A root canal is a dental procedure necessary when tissue inside of the tooth becomes damaged. Your dentist will remove the diseased pulp (connective membranes, nerves, and soft tissue containing blood vessels inside of the tooth). Once the diseased matter is removed, the exposed area is cleaned and sealed. Teeth that contain damaged or diseased pulp may become painful or infected if left untreated.

Q: What causes tooth infections?

A: There are a number of ways that tissue inside of your teeth can become infected. Broken or cracked teeth or those with unfilled cavities are vulnerable to disease. Even teeth with no visible damage are susceptible.

Q: How long will the restoration from a root canal last?

A: A root canal is a restorative procedure that, if cared for properly, may last a lifetime. However, even teeth without nerves can still develop cavities or, worse, gum disease.

Q: Is a root canal painful?

A: Typically, a root canal is more uncomfortable than painful. Your dentist will offer pain management options that may include local anesthesia or nitrous oxide. A root canal typically takes between one and three visits for completion. Post-procedure pain may be managed with over the counter products, according to the advice of your dentist.

Q: How do I find a dentist experienced in this procedure?

A: Root canals are extremely common procedures that are often performed by a general or family dentist. However, if you have any concerns you may want to find a dentist that specializes in the treatment of issues inside the teeth. These dentists are called endodontists and have undergone additional training to identify and treat hidden dental issues.

Google Street View Sinks to New Lows and Rises Above the Clouds

Everyone knows that bright and vivid images of Stonehenge, the great pyramids, and even the North Pole are just a mouseclick away thanks to Google Map’s Street View. But now Google, in conjunction with the United States government, is going under the sea to allow net surfers the opportunity to break the ocean’s surface and visit the reefs and shipwrecks off the Florida coast.

In 2014, scientist with NOAA will begin getting a “fisheye” view as they dropped cameras into the waters of the Florida Keys. The researchers will release much of their visual findings to Google in an effort to increase public awareness about and spur interest in the marine world. Google hopes the partnership will help national agencies find support in their aquatic preservation efforts and shed light on the ecological struggles of the Earth’s oceans. [Read more…]

Berni Fried Calls for More Research into Addiction Treatment Programs

Eager to challenge the accepted norms of traditional medical organizations, licensed therapist Berni Fried has dedicated her career to advancing treatment methods for people who are struggling with addiction. In the following interview, A Gathering of Experts asks Berni Fried about the epidemic of drug and alcohol abuse that has ravaged communities throughout the United States.

A Gathering of Experts: Thanks for offering your thoughts to us today. Welcome, Ms. Fried.

Berni Fried: I’m grateful for the invitation.

A Gathering of Experts: We’re looking at some of the most recent statistics regarding drug and alcohol abuse in America.

Berni Fried: It’s frightening, to be honest. [Read more…]

Preventative Dental Care Begins with Education, says Damon R. Johnson, DDS

Damon R. Johnson, DDS answers common questions regarding preventative dental care and explains why oral hygiene is vital to overall health.

Q: What is preventative dentistry?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: This is the area of dentistry that allows dentists to identify and avert problems before they require costly (and painful) treatment.

Q: What does it consist of?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: First and foremost, patient education. This includes providing information on proper dental care and nutrition. We also educate our patients on the benefits of prophylaxis – preventative care, cleanings, and exams.

Q: Why are regular cleanings important?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Even patients who brush regularly need twice-yearly cleanings to remove plaque build-up. Regular exams also allow us to check for cavities and damage to teeth and gums.

Q: What causes gum disease?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Heavy deposits of plaque along the gum line cause inflammation. This painful, red, and swollen condition is gum disease and it has been linked to other health concerns, including diabetes.

Q: What is the difference between gingivitis and gum disease?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Gingivitis is early-stage periodontal (gum) disease. At this stage, bacteria begins to attack the soft tissue of the gums.

Q: Is gum disease reversible?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: If caught early enough, yes. Otherwise, we must look into restorative dental procedures to get the mouth back to a pre-diseased state.

Q: How has modern technology made preventative dentistry easier?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Medical advancements, such as 3D x-rays and powerful microscopes, allow for a better view and consequently a more thorough analysis of  a patient’s dental state, meaning that we can treat problems sooner.

Q: How do sealants play a role in oral health?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants allow us to cover teeth at-risk for dental caries, also known as cavities, with a special formula to prevent further decay.

Q: Where are sealants used?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants are effective on back teeth, which tend to have grooves that collect debris and breed bacteria.

Q: What is bruxism?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Most people know this as teeth grinding. Bruxism is a common issue that can cause a host of health problems such as migraine headache and tooth damage.

Q: How can a dentist help prevent bruxism?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: We can’t stop a patient from the action of grinding/clenching but we do offer custom night guards to eliminate damage to teeth and ease the tension on muscles around the mouth.

Q: Can mouth guards help athletes on the field?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Yes, a well-fitting mouth guard helps athletes improve their balance. More importantly, they work to prevent or minimize facial trauma.

Q: Are all mouthguards the same?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: No, the best mouth guard is a custom-fitted piece. At Damon R. Johnson, DDS Dental Excellence, we use the Under Armour® Armour BiteTM. This mouthpiece has been praised by both athletes and coaches. For anyone who plays sports, mouth guards are a must.

Sophia Wong of YOR Health Endorses the YOR Best Body Championship

Sophia Wong YOR HealthWith over 250,000 votes cast, the 2014 YOR Best Body Championship is the most successful edition yet, according to Sophia Wong of YOR Health. Sophia Wong, a YOR Health co-founder, is proud to share the news about this year’s finalists. In a recent interview with A Gathering of Experts, Sophia Wong of YOR Health offers her gratitude for the health-savvy competitors who strive for the finish line.

A Gathering of Experts: Thanks for joining us this morning!

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Hello! How are you doing?

A Gathering of Experts: It’s a beautiful day…

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Indeed! [Read more…]

An Interview with C. Frederick Wehba

C. Frederick WehbaC. Frederick Wehba is recognized in the real estate community as one of the most trusted advisors and leaders in the field. From his home base in Los Angeles, California, C. Frederick Wehba has made a considerable difference in the lives of his tenants, as well as his fellow community members. In this interview with A Gathering of Experts, C. Frederick Wehba describes his humble beginnings in Crowell, Texas, and how these experiences informed his later work.

A Gathering of Experts: Welcome, Frederick!

C. Frederick Wehba: Hello! It’s always a pleasure to speak with you.

A Gathering of Experts: Today we’d like to give our readers a little background about your career.

C. Frederick Wehba: Wonderful…I’m ready to answer your questions. [Read more…]