Alison Behnke

It's dangerous to talk on the phone during a thunderstorm. Flushing the toilet sprays water around the bathroom. Freezers can burn your food. You may have heard these common sayings or beliefs before. But are they really true? Can they be proven through research? Let's investigate seventeen statements about the kitchen and home to find out which ones are right, which ones are wrong, and which ones stump even the experts! Find out whether the smell...

The Middle East boasts a long, intricate history and a vibrant modern culture that is reflected in their cuisine. Lamb is the most commonly used meat and locally grown beans, rice, dates, and nuts are popular ingredients. Some dishes are shared by many countries in the region, but each nation also has its own specialties, leading to a diverse and interesting blend of dishes.

What would you have worn if you lived during the 1930's, 1940's, and 1950's? It depends on who you were! For 1930's high fashion, nothing beat Coco Chanel's women's suit-a slim, straight skirt with a matching boxy jacket. And for a classy evening, men donned black tuxedos and velvet smoking jackets. Read more about depression era and wartime fashions-from the form-fitting little black dress to polo shirts, stylish snoods, and chic chignons-in this...

The area around the Mediterranean Sea is rich with natural beauty and has a fascinating history and culture. With its mild climate and fertile soil, this region produces a wealth of fresh grains, fruits and vegetables, while its coastline offers plenty of fresh seafood. Each of the more the 15 countries in this area offer their own unique dishes and traditions, resulting in a varied and delightful cuisine.

In the early nineteenth century, the United States was growing quickly, and many people wanted to set up homes and farms in new areas. For centuries, American Indian nations-including the Cherokee-had been living on the land that white settlers wanted. The US government often stepped in to resolve conflicts between the groups with treaties. Many of these treaties called upon American Indians to give up some of their territory. The conflicts continued...

By the early and mid-nineteenth century, many US citizens were moving westward. Some of them settled in the territories of Texas and California, which belonged to Mexico at that time. In 1835 the tension between the two countries turned violent; US settlers started fighting for independence in the Texas Revolution. That conflict went on to ignite the Mexican-American War in 1846. The war lasted close to two years and claimed thousands of lives. In...

The seven countries of Central America share many culinary traditions, while offering their own unique specialty dishes. The region is home to a wide range of resources, including various crops and fresh seafood. Many of their traditional dishes and meals are a blend of Spanish, Caribbean and Native Central American influences, offering the diner a varied and unique dining experience.

Grocers work in stores selling food. Grocers choose the types of foods people will want to buy, then order products, put them on the shelves, and sell them to customers. Whether they work in a small shop or a large grocery store, grocers help make our community better!

New York, December 8, 1980: The announcement shocked the world. Beatles founder and legendary musician John Lennon had been murdered in front of his New York home. With no warning, a lone gunman opened fire, shooting Lennon in the back just as Lennon returned from a recording session with his wife, Yoko Ono. Husband, father of two, cultural icon, and hero to millions, Lennon was dead. Around the globe, people mourned the loss of a man who had stood...

The fifth largest country in the world, Brazil stretches across nearly half of South America. Home to a vibrant blend of indigenous, African, European, and immigrant cultures, Brazil boasts a diverse cuisine. Beans, rice, manioc, tropical fruits, meats, and fresh vegetables form the basis for many traditional Brazilian dishes. With delicious recipes for Brazilian staples such as Farofa, Xinxim, and Feijoada, discover the spicy flavors of Brazil.