Instructions

• Step 1: Copy Graceland Make like fans at Graceland and host an Elvis-themed bingo game, an Elvis impersonator contest, and a candlelight vigil on August 15.
• TIP: To make Elvis bingo cards, substitute words associated with the King for bingo letters and numbers.
• Step 2: Listen to Elvis’s favorite music Instead of just playing Elvis’s hits, also listen to musicians who influenced him, like gospel singers Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Jake Hess, pop singer Kay Starr, and crooner Dean Martin.
• Step 3: Enjoy Elvis’s favorite food Fix yourself Elvis’s favorite sandwich: Peanut butter and mashed banana on white bread, fried in butter. He also loved banana pudding, pimiento cheese toast points, and pound cake.
• TIP: Gourmet magazine declared Elvis’s favorite pound cake “the best pound cake we have ever tasted.” Find the recipe on epicurious.com.
• Step 4: Host an Elvis film marathon Host an Elvis film marathon to celebrate Elvis Week: His movies included Love Me Tender, Jailhouse Rock, Viva Las Vegas, and Girl Happy.
• Step 5: Go to an amusement park Spend the day riding a roller coaster. Elvis loved the Zippin Pippin, a roller coaster in the now-defunct Memphis theme park Libertyland.
• Step 6: Support an Elvis charity Make a donation to one of the charities close to Elvis’s heart, such as St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the March of Dimes. Because the best way to celebrate Elvis Week is to continue the King’s charitable works.
• FACT: A photograph of Elvis Presley and U.S. President Richard Nixon is the White House’s most requested picture.

You Will Need

• Elvis-themed bingo
• Elvis impersonator contest
• Music
• Elvis’s favorite foods
• Elvis movies
• Roller coaster
• Donation
• Elvis’s favorite pound cake recipe (optional)

Transcript

Man: In the hot seat?

Woman: Quick tips?

Man: Keep your car upholstery comfortable by throwing a reflective emergency blanket over it. Cool!

Instructions

• Step 1: Hold the bottom spoon Place one spoon facedown between the index and middle fingers on your dominant hand. Wrap your middle finger around the back of the spoon’s handle, and press the handle’s edge against your palm. Rest the middle of the handle on the knuckle of your middle finger.
• Step 2: Add the top spoon Place the other spoon faceup between your thumb and index finger. Wrap your index finger around the back of the spoon’s handle, pressing the handle’s edge against your palm. Press your thumb over the handle to secure the spoon, keeping about 1/2 inch between the spoons’ bowls.
• Step 3: Sit down Sit on a chair with your feet on the floor, and your non-dominant hand a few inches above your leg, palm facing down. Then, place the spoons between your non-dominant hand and your leg.
• Step 4: Play a basic rhythm Move your dominant hand up and down at an even tempo, hitting the top spoon against your non-dominant hand and the bottom spoon against your leg — the backs of the spoons will hit together to make sound.
• TIP: Hit up or down harder to accent the beat.
• Step 5: Get down with the gallop Spice up your rhythm; as you move the spoons towards your knee, hook your non-dominant hand’s middle finger under the bottom spoon, so it catches the utensil slightly and creates a galloping sound.
• Step 6: Try the rake To produce a drum-roll effect, turn your non-dominant hand so the thumb points upward, spread the fingers apart, and rake the spoons downward across them. Then, combine each technique to play the spoons in rhythms that’ll inspire a jig, a full hoedown, or a good, old-fashioned hootenanny. Yee-haw!
• FACT: A sculpture garden in Minneapolis features a spoon that weighs 5,800 pounds holding a 1,200-pound cherry.

You Will Need

• 2 equal-sized spoons
• Rhythm

Instructions

• Step 1: Figure adjusted gross score Figure your adjusted gross score from your last 5 to 20 rounds of 18-hole golf. Your adjusted gross score is your gross score adjusted for unfinished holes, conceded strokes, and holes not played.
• TIP: The United States Golf Association requires a minimum of 12 scores to be submitted in order to calculate a golfer’s handicap.
• Step 2: Subtract the course rating Subtract the course rating from your adjusted gross score from each round to find the differentials. The course rating can be found on the scorecard and is given in decimal form. For example, Pebble Beach Golf Links in California has a course rating of 75.5.
• Step 3: Divide the differentials by the slope Divide the differentials by the course’s slope, also typically found on the scorecard, and multiply the quotients by 113. These products are called the adjusted differentials.
• TIP: If the course rating and slope are not printed on the scorecard, you can call the course to get the numbers.
• Step 4: Multiply adjusted differential Multiply your lowest adjusted differential by 96 percent, or 0.96. This final product is your handicap.
• FACT: Tiger Woods won his first U.S. Open title at Pebble Beach in June 2000.

You Will Need

• Golf scores
• Course rating
• Course slope
• Calculator

Instructions

• Step 1: Choose the order of play Choose the order of play by spinning a tee. Player one goes first on the first hole, player two on the second, and so on. The rotation stays the same — you tee off after the same person on every hole.
• Step 2: Wolf tees off Tee off first and you’re the wolf. Announce whether you want a partner or are going “lone wolf.”
• Step 3: Wolf chooses partner Watch each of the other players shoot. Decide after each shot whether you want that player as a partner for the hole.
• TIP: You must decide if you want a player to be your partner before the next player drives.
• Step 4: Play the best shot Play the best shot between partners for each hole.
• Step 5: Award points Award points for the lowest score. If the wolf has a partner, they get one point each. If the wolf is playing alone, he gets both points. If the wolf loses the hole, the other team gets one point each.
• TIP: In the case of a tie, no points are awarded.
• Step 6: Play the next hole Play the next hole — the next golfer in the rotation becomes the wolf.
• FACT: In 1971, Ian Colston played 22 rounds and five holes — the greatest number of rounds played on foot in 24 hours.

You Will Need

• A golf course
• Four players
• Golf clubs

Instructions

• Step 1: Avoid heavy meals Avoid eating heavy meals right before you venture onto an intense ride. Don’t stuff yourself with corn dogs and cotton candy and avoid acids like soft drinks and fruit juices. Instead, opt for lighter fare like a sandwich or a salad.
• TIP: Tilting your head to the side can actually increase motion sickness. Instead, keep your head straight, close your eyes, and breathe deeply through your mouth.
• Step 2: Stay hydrated Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially on hot summer days. In addition to minimizing motion sickness, staying hydrated wards off heat stroke and dehydration.
• TIP: Natural remedies to prevent motion sickness include ginger capsules and ginger ale, as well as pressure-point bracelets.
• Step 3: Rest up Rest for a few minutes after exiting an intense ride. Allow your body to adjust and regain its equilibrium. Sit on a bench and put your head between your legs if you still feel nauseous.
• Step 4: Ride in the front Ride in the coaster’s first car. Riding in front minimizes your chances of motion sickness.
• Step 5: Take medication Take Dramamine, an over-the-counter motion sickness medication, about an hour before you arrive at the park. But be careful — it can cause drowsiness.
• FACT: As of 2010, the Kingda Ka roller coaster at the Six Flags amusement park in New Jersey was the tallest, fastest roller coaster in the world.

You Will Need

• Light meals
• Water
• Bench
• Front seat
• Motion-sickness pill
• Ginger capsules or ginger ale (optional)
• Pressure-point bracelet (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare your boat Make sure your drain plug at the stern is in. Then undo and stow the safety straps that secure the stern to the trailer.
• Step 2: Back your trailer down Back your trailer down the launch ramp towards the water until two-thirds of the trailer is in the water.
• TIP: Attach a length of marine rope to the bow of the boat so you can have a friend hold onto the rope as you launch it.
• Step 3: Unhook the bow Unhook your safety chain from the bow and then unhook the wench.
• Step 4: Guide the boat off the trailer Guide the boat off the trailer by gently pushing it back. Get enough of the boat in the water so that it floats above your trailer.
• Step 5: Pull the trailer out Pull the trailer slowly from under the boat.
• Step 6: Have a friend hold the boat Have a friend stay with the boat while you park the trailer. Then wade to your boat, get in, and go for a cruise.
• FACT: In 2005, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that 3,582 people were injured in boating incidents.

You Will Need

• A towing vehicle
• A boat launch or ramp
• A friend
• Marine rope (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Find a local strawberry patch Search the internet for a local strawberry patch. Call first, to make sure the berries are ripe and the patch hasn’t been overpicked.
• TIP: Go picking during the early morning or on a cloudy day to keep the strawberries cool and fresh.
• Step 2: Bring shallow containers Bring shallow containers to hold your berries. You don’t want to stack your fruit more than 5 inches high.
• Step 3: Find the best berries Find the best berries by checking under the leaves and close to the ground. Choose strawberries that are dry, plump, firm, and red all over.
• Step 4: Pick the berries Pick carefully to avoid bruising. Grasp the stem above the berry between your thumb and forefinger, and then twist and pull gently.
• TIP: Although you can pick berries while standing up, it’s easier on your back to pick from a squatting, kneeling, or sitting position. Use a kneeling pad for comfort.
• Step 5: Transport the berries Transport your berries carefully. Don’t crush them or keep them in the sunlight. Avoid putting them in your trunk or leaving them inside the car for very long. Too much heat will accelerate decay.
• TIP: Bring an insulated cooler to keep your strawberries fresh during transport home.
• Step 6: Enjoy Wash your strawberries before eating, freezing, or cooking with them. There are countless ways to enjoy the taste of fresh-picked strawberries.
• FACT: Most linguists think the word “strawberry” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “strae,” which means “to scatter.” It refers to how strawberry plants reproduce by spreading runners across the ground.

You Will Need

• A computer with internet access
• A strawberry patch
• Shallow containers
• A kneeling pad (optional)
• An insulated cooler (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Understand the solstice Understand what the summer solstice is — in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s the day when the North Pole is tilted closest to the sun, making it the longest day of the year.
• Step 2: Have a bonfire Make a bonfire. Ancient civilizations believed that the fire they created would ward off evil spirits. Many cultures carry on this tradition today.
• Step 3: Pick some flowers Pick some flowers. In medieval Europe, people believed that plants picked during the summer solstice had the ability to heal.
• Step 4: Head to Stonehenge Visit Stonehenge, Britain’s famous prehistoric stone monument. Because the structure aligns with the sunrise on the solstice, thousands of people gather there to celebrate the day by watching the sun come up.
• TIP: Other great destinations for celebrating the solstice include Sedona, Arizona, and Cairo, where an ancient sun temple was discovered in 2006.
• Step 5: Dance around a maypole Dance around a maypole — a flower and ribbon-festooned vertical bar. That’s a cherished tradition in Sweden, where the summer solstice is a major holiday.
• Step 6: Organize a naked run Organize a naked run — if you can secure your town’s permission! It’s a new — but increasingly popular — ritual in Riga, the capital of Latvia, as part of their solstice festivities.
• FACT: “Solstice” comes from the Latin words “sol,” which means sun, and “stare,” to stand.

You Will Need

• Bonfire
• Freshly picked flowers
• Stonehenge visit
• Maypole
• Naked run

Instructions

• Step 1: Take a dip Grab a towel, don a bathing suit, and cool off with a swim. Wear waterproof sunscreen and play a little Marco Polo; before you know it, you’ll be having such a good time, you won’t realize you’ve burned off all those ice cream calories.
• TIP: Drink plenty of water, even when you’re swimming. You might not feel thirsty, but you’re still moving around in the hot sun.
• Step 2: Get growing Start a vegetable garden. Find a plot of land and map out areas for various veggies. Aerate and weed with a trowel, then plant summer produce like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Water regularly and watch the perfect complements to a summer barbecue come to life.
• Step 3: Find a sport Toss a ball around, shoot some hoops, ride a bike, spike a volleyball, toss a Frisbee, play some tennis, go for a run — anything that gets you up and moving outdoors. Being active in the sun improves sleep, promotes vitamin D production, and boosts your mood — just be sure to wear sunscreen.
• Step 4: Grab some reading material Pick a book, stretch out in the shade, and read. Choose a book that interests you, rather than something you think you have to read. Try a masterpiece you’ve always meant to check out, and challenge yourself to finish it by Labor Day.
• Step 5: Go camping Explore the great outdoors with a camping trip. Grab a canteen, food, and a flashlight, pack up a tent and sleeping bag, throw it all in a backpack, and hit the road. Even if you’re just in your own backyard, the summer months are the perfect time for a night away from the television.
• TIP: If you live in an area with fireflies, bring a mason jar on your trip and catch some to give your camp a little extra mood lighting.
• Step 6: Look to the heavens Wait for night to fall, go outside, and stargaze. Consult a star chart to find constellations, many of which were named centuries ago. Let your imagination run and find new shapes and images in the sky to inspire you as you consider your next fun summer activity.
• FACT: In August 1969, Sly and the Family Stone’s single “Hot Fun in the Summertime,” hit no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

You Will Need

• Beach towel
• Bathing suit
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Trowel
• Vegetable seeds
• Sports equipment
• Book
• Camping gear
• Star chart
• Mason jar (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Find a projector Find a digital projector to fit your needs. Take into consideration cost, picture quality, and how often you’ll use it. Look for projectors that track lamp life and have more than 600 hours of life left.
• TIP: A projector with a lens shift feature lets you adjust the image without moving the projector.
• Step 2: Pick a video source Pick a video source. Laptops can screen a variety of file types. If screenings will rely only on DVDs, use a home DVD player.
• TIP: If you plan on renting HD downloads, look into an HDCP-compatible projector, which prevents digital content from being copied.
• Step 3: Choose an audio source Choose an audio source. If you already have desktop computer speakers with a subwoofer, or a stereo with auxiliary inputs, use one of those. For a louder, more professional setup, get an amplifier with the appropriate speakers.
• Step 4: Get cables Get connecting cables. If you’re using a DVD player, use a component video cable to connect to the projector, and an RCA cable to connect to the sound system. For a laptop, use a VGA, DVI, or HDMI cable, plus an adapter if you have a Mac, to connect to the projector, and a mini stereo or mini stereo-to-RCA cable to connect the audio.
• TIP: If you’re confused about which cables to get, take pictures of the inputs and outputs on each of the devices and get help at an electronics store.
• Step 5: Set up the projector Set up the projector 10 to 15 feet from the screen on a table or other flat surface that’s slightly taller than the height of bottom of the screen. Make sure there’s enough room for your audio and video sources.
• Step 6: Connect the components Connect the video source to the projector and the audio source. If necessary, place speakers in the desired locations and connect them to the amplifier with speaker wire. Run an extension cord from the nearest power source to a power strip, and plug the components in.
• TIP: Tape loose cords and wires to the ground, or put blankets or rugs over them to reduce tripping hazards.
• Step 7: Take a practice run Turn on the devices for a practice run before showtime. If you’re using a laptop, select an auxiliary screen by pressing one of the function keys, often F5 or F7, depending on your model. Adjust the focus, and experiment with different distances between the screen and the projector to get the largest, sharpest image.
• Step 8: Hold a screening Wait until dark. Then, pop some popcorn, put on a movie, and enjoy the fruits of your labor with friends and family.
• FACT: The private movie theater in the White House, for use by the First Family, was converted from a cloakroom in 1942.

You Will Need

• Digital projector
• Laptop or DVD player
• Computer speakers
• stereo
• or amp
• Component video cable
• RCA cable
• VGA or DVI cable
• VGA
• DVI
• or HDMI adapter for Macs
• Mini stereo
• or mini stereo-to-RCA cable
• Flat surface
• Speaker wire
• Extension cord
• Power strip
• Popcorn
• Movie
• Digital camera (optional)
• Tape
• blankets
• or rugs (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Set up the middle support Attach a T-connector to a 6-foot-2 piece of PVC pipe. Then, attach the 4-way cross connector to the other end. This will be the center support for the screen’s frame.
• Step 2: Make the top of the frame Affix two of the 4-foot-7 sections to either side of the T-connector to form the top of the frame. Attach an elbow to each open end of the 4-foot-7 pieces.
• Step 3: Attach the sides Connect two 6-foot-2 sections of PVC to the elbows at the top of the frame. Affix T-connectors to each free end of those sections.
• Step 4: Finish the bottom of the frame Run a 4-foot-7 piece between each T-connector and either side of the cross at the bottom of the middle support.
• Step 5: Attach the legs Affix the three 3-foot-1 sections of pipe to the open ends of the bottom two T-connectors and the cross connector to make the screen’s three legs. Seal all the connections using PVC cement, and let it dry.
• Step 6: Attach eyebolts Drill one ¼-inch hole on each side of the frame just below the elbow joints. Thread an eyebolt through each hole so the eye is on the outside. Then, put the washers on, and tighten the nuts to secure the bolts in place.
• Step 7: Mix the concrete Mix the concrete in each of the three buckets according to the directions.
• TIP: Add water in small increments and stop when you’ve got a workable but thick consistency.
• Step 8: Put sleeves in concrete Put an end cap on each of the 3-foot-2 sections of pipe. Set the capped ends in the wet concrete so they’re centered at the bottom of the bucket and the pipe is vertical. Let the concrete dry.
• Step 9: Reinforce the blackout cloth Fold the blackout cloth in half to form a 6-foot by 9-foot screen. Pin it to hold it in place and sew along each side. Remove the pins. Then, use the grommet punch to fix grommets along the edge of each side at 1-foot intervals.
• TIP: The more grommets you make, the better the screen will stretch.
• Step 10: Attach the screen to the frame Lay the six-by-nine sheet of blackout cloth in the center of the PVC frame. Run zip ties through each grommet and around the outside of the frame. Pull the ties tight so there are as few wrinkles as possible.
• TIP: While you may still see a few creases, you won’t notice them when watching your movie, especially when it’s dark.
• Step 11: Mount the screen Decide where to set up the screen. Slide each of the supports from the frame into the sections of pipe in the buckets.
• Step 12: Complete screen set up Drive four anchor stakes into the ground around the screen, two on either side of the screen. Run nylon rope from each eyebolt to the stakes, and tie it so it’s taut to keep the screen from tilting forward or backward. Now that you’ve got the screen, watch “How to Build an Outdoor Movie Theater Part 2: The Projector”:http://www.howcast.com/videos/356332-How-To-Build-an-Outdoor-Movie-Theater-Part-2-the-Projector to finish the job.
• FACT: The country’s first commercial outdoor theater was opened in New Jersey in 1933.

You Will Need

• 1 1/2″ diameter PVC pipe:
• 3 6′ 2″ pieces
• 4 4′ 7″ pieces
• 3 3′ 1″ pieces
• 2 elbow connectors
• 3 T-connectors
• 1 4-way cross connector
• 2″ diameter PVC pipe:
• 3 3′ 2″ pieces
• 3 end caps
• PVC cement
• Drill
• 2 1/4″ eyebolts with washers
• and nuts
• 3 5-gal. buckets
• 2 80-Ib. bags of concrete mix
• 6′ X 18′ blackout cloth
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine
• Grommet punch
• 30 3/8″ grommets
• 30 zip ties
• 100′ of nylon rope
• 4 anchor skates

Instructions

• Step 1: Dry ear Dry your ear with a towel or tissue.
• TIP: Do not use a cotton swab to dry your ear.
• Step 2: Tilt your head Tilt your head to the side with the plugged ear.
• Step 3: Pull lobe Pull your ear lobe downward to allow the water to drain out.
• Step 4: Use a blow dryer Hold a blow-dryer a few inches from your plugged ear. Put it on the lowest setting and turn it on, but be careful to not burn your skin.
• Step 5: Mix a solution Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol in a medicine dropper and drip a few drops into the ear.
• Step 6: Consult a doctor Consult and seek treatment from a doctor if the problem persists.
• FACT: Ear infections are among the most common illnesses for young children.

You Will Need

• Towel or tissue
• Blow-dryer
• White vinegar
• Rubbing alcohol
• Medicine dropper
• Doctor

Instructions

• Step 1: Buy balloons Buy balloons. Look for medium-size ones that won’t break too easily. Plan on a few dozen for each player.
• Step 2: Fill balloons Fill the balloons with water, and tie them shut. Place the filled balloons into buckets.
• TIP: Filling balloons with water can take a while; ask friends to help.
• Step 3: Play water balloon dodgeball Try playing dodgeball, only with water balloons. Divide your group into teams and stand facing each other.
• Step 4: Start the game When the signal is given, everyone starts throwing their balloons at the opposing team.
• : Water balloons can sting upon impact. Protect your face.
• Step 5: Earn points When someone is hit, the other team scores a point.
• TIP: To make it easier to keep score, you can have individuals face off against each other, one-on-one, taking turns throwing.
• Step 6: Finish the game Play until all the balloons are gone, the members of one team have all been hit, or a certain number of points have been reached.
• Step 7: Use the leftover balloons Once the official game is over, everybody can grab the leftover balloons and throw them at whomever they want.
• Step 8: Clean up Pick up all the burst balloons. Leave the space clean for next time!
• FACT: Nearly 3,000 people threw more than 55,000 balloons during the world’s largest water balloon fight, staged in Australia.

You Will Need

• Balloons
• Water
• Buckets
• Friends
• And a place to play

Instructions

• Step 1: Plan ahead Make a shopping list as early as you can. The more time you give yourself to shop for bargains, the more time you’ll have to hunt for them.
• TIP: Find paper plates, cups, napkins, and flatware at dollar stores.
• Step 2: Recruit a co-host Ask a couple of neighbors to co-host. You can split the costs, as well as the work involved in preparing and cleaning up.
• Step 3: Make flyers Make flyers and, in addition to including the time and date, request donations like tables, chairs, barbeques, food, and beverages. Include your phone number or e-mail address on the flyer so that people can let you know what they’ll be bringing.
• Step 4: Buy in bulk Find a neighbor with a discount club membership if you don’t have one. Buy food for the party in bulk.
• TIP: Having the party as a potluck can reduce your costs.
• Step 5: Contact local businesses Contact local businesses for donations. Sometimes local stores will donate door prizes, equipment, or coupons as a way to attract new customers.
• Step 6: Plan activities Arrange for inexpensive activities and games. Sack races, bike parades, and water balloon fights are cheap entertainment.
• TIP: Put a sign up at the end of the block to remind neighbors to attend.
• Step 7: Employ kids Offer children cash or prizes for picking up trash and cleaning up when the party is over.
• Step 8: Enjoy Enjoy the party! Have fun and mingle.
• FACT: Did you know? The Atlantis Hotel in Dubai threw a $20 million grand opening party in 2008.

You Will Need

• Supplies
• Co-hosts
• Flyers
• A discount club membership
• Activities
• Signage
• Cash or prizes for kids

Instructions

• Step 1: Plan menu Plan your picnic menu. Barbecuing means carrying and cleaning up more, so it is easier to pack sandwiches.
• TIP: Make your sandwiches ahead of time but put the dressing on just before you eat them.
• Step 2: Pack side items in plastic bowls and bags Pack side salads and side items in plastic bowls and bags.
• Step 3: Cut fruit ahead of time Cut fruit before you leave to save a mess at your party. Pack in plastic containers.
• Step 4: Get coolers and a few other bags Grab your coolers and a couple of other carrying bags. Grocery store bags or clothing bags with handles work well.
• TIP: Use a separate cooler for drinks since people will be in and out of that one the most.
• Step 5: Pack extra bags with necessities Fill a bag with sunscreen, bug spray, hats, sunglasses and a first aid kit. Put a plastic tablecloth, plastic plates and cups, plastic silverware, wipes, dry towels, and garbage bags in a second bag. Fill a third bag with balls, a Frisbee, bubbles, and other toys for the kids.
• Step 6: Layer ice and food in cooler Line the bottom of your cooler with a layer of ice or cold packs and pack perishable food items, dessert at the bottom. With each layer add ice or more cold packs.
• Step 7: Pack car Load up the car and save room for the family.
• FACT: Did you know? The word picnic comes from the French word piquenique meaning to pick or peck.

You Will Need

• Sandwiches
• Dressings
• Salads and sides
• Plastic bowls and bags
• Fruit
• Coolers
• Carrying bags
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• A first aid kit
• A plastic table cloth
• Plastic plates
• cups
• and flatware
• Wipes
• Towels
• Garbage bags
• Balls
• A Frisbee
• Bubbles
• Ice or cold packs
• A beverage cooler (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Use outdoor insect fogger Set off an outdoor insect fogger in the picnic area. The fogger spreads a preventative into the air and onto the surrounding trees, shrubs, and plants.
• : Carefully read and follow the instructions on the fogger’s label. A fogger should only be used a few times a year in seasons of high use.
• Step 2: Keep area clean Keep the area clean by wiping the table with a soapy sponge and by keeping the area clear of food debris and litter.
• Step 3: Empty and wash garbage cans Empty garbage cans often and occasionally wash them with detergent or ammonia to deter ants and insects.
• TIP: Locate your garbage cans at least 50 feet from your picnic table to reduce the chance of an ant attack.
• Step 4: Spray around picnic table Spray the area around the picnic table with an ant and flying insect repellent at least 15 minutes before the planned activity.
• Step 5: Store food in closed containers Store all picnic foods in containers with lids. Keep the food covered when it’s not being served. This discourages food smells from attracting pests.
• Step 6: Clean up spills immediately Clean up food spills as soon as possible – on the table and on the ground.
• Step 7: Clean area thoroughly after picnic Clean the area thoroughly after your picnic. Wash and rinse the table and dispose of trash appropriately.
• FACT: Did you know? If not sufficiently controlled, Argentine ants threaten to wipe out native species in California.

You Will Need

• An outdoor insect fogger
• Soap and water
• A sponge
• Garbage cans
• Detergent or ammonia
• An outdoor ant and flying insect repellant
• Food containers with lids

Instructions

• Step 1: Sit in the “bow” Head to the front of the boat and say, ‘I’ll be fore’ or ‘I’ll be in the bow.’
• TIP: All directions are given in relation to the position of the boat itself, regardless of which direction the person happens to be facing.
• Step 2: Move “aft” Switch to the back of the boat and announce you’re moving ‘aft’ to sit in the ‘stern.’
• Step 3: Go “starboard” Proclaim you��ll be ‘starboard,’ then go to the side on the right when facing forward to the front of the boat. Or mention you’ll be ‘port’ and sit on the left.
• Step 4: Talk about “leeward” and “windward” Speak authoritatively about the ‘leeward’ side–the side opposite the source of the wind–or ‘windward’–the side of the boat that the wind is coming from.
• Step 5: Know the ins and outs If the engine is attached to the outside of the boat, comment on the ‘outboard’ (‘That’s one fine outboard!’), as opposed to a built-in or ‘inboard’ one.
• TIP: ‘Inboard’ and ‘outboard’ can also refer to a direction toward or away from the centerline of the boat.
• Step 6: Ask about knots Ask the captain how many knots you’re going–the number of nautical miles per hour that you’re traveling, or, duh, how fast you’re moving.
• TIP: A nautical mile is longer than a mile on land.
• Step 7: Inquire about the “course” Inquire, ‘What’s our course?’ A ‘course’ is the direction in which a boat or ship is sailing. This can be different from the ‘heading,’ which is the direction in which a boat is pointing.
• Step 8: Ask for rum Ask for some of the captain’s best rum. You’ve earned it.
• FACT: If an aircraft circles your boat three times and then heads off in a particular direction, it’s signaling that there is a vessel in distress in that direction that needs your help.

You Will Need

• Memorization skills
• And a desire to show off

Instructions

• Step 1: Study the course layout. Pick up a scorecard, which will give you the pars for each hole, and walk the course. Note the obstacles and hole placements on each green so you won’t be surprised later.
• Step 2: When you’re dealing with short distances, speed control is everything. Take plenty of practice putts before playing a round with a group to determine whether the turf is slow or fast, and how hard you have to hit the ball.
• TIP: Bring your own putter to avoid using an unfamiliar club. The putters courses provide are often too short, too tall, or in poor condition.
• Step 3: Take time to read the rules on the scorecard. Know the stroke limit for each hole, and how far you’re allowed to reposition your ball when it’s pinned against a barrier. Learning the rules can actually help you shave strokes off your score.
• Step 4: When it’s your turn, take into account the position of the hole, the distance to the hole, and line up your shot. Most courses let you place your ball anywhere within a designated tee-off area, so find the position that gives you the best angle. Look for direct routes that skip the water hazards and moving obstacles, and consider bank shots off barriers.
• TIP: If there are unavoidable moving obstacles on the hole, watch them for as long as you need to learn their patterns and get the timing down.
• Step 5: Tune out distractions like noisy children, pesky mosquitoes, and disturbing fiberglass animals, and focus on your shot. Grip the putter securely and square up the club head, then stand tall and swing from the shoulders, not the wrist.
• TIP: Putting too hard can send your ball in all sorts of crazy directions. Use a nice, light touch that will leave you in a good position for your next shot.
• Step 6: The last hole is usually a skill shot without a second chance, so go for the hole-in-one. With a little planning, practice, and concentration, you’ll win a free game every time.
• FACT: During mini golf’s heyday in the 1930s, there were more than 30,000 courses in the U.S., with over 150 rooftop courses in New York City alone.

You Will Need

• A scorecard
• Time to practice
• The rules
• Concentration
• Your own putter (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Praise their body Grease the wheels by praising the person’s body — just make sure you do it in a non-sleazy way. Remark on how “fit” and “toned” they look; speculate that they must be working out. You’ll have no chance of getting them naked if they’re self-conscious about their figure.
• Step 2: Bring up the idea casually Casually bring up the idea of skinny-dipping. Ruminate on how you’ve always wanted to try it.
• Step 3: Proceed cautiously Proceed cautiously. Once you’ve introduced the subject, drop it for a while — unless, of course, your companion is already ripping off clothes and dashing toward the water.
• Step 4: Announce your intention to skinny-dip Announce that, by gosh, you’re going to do it — you’re going to skinny-dip! Behave as though you are talking yourself into it. Make no mention of them joining you.
• Step 5: Begin undressing Begin undressing like it’s the most natural thing in the world. Keep up a steady stream of chatter, as if nothing could be more innocent.
• Step 6: Run into the water Run into the water and begin splashing around with an expression on your face that suggests pure joy.
• Step 7: Share your delight Describe the “indescribable” feeling of having nothing between your body and the water.
• TIP: If your companion is the type of person who doesn’t like to lose a challenge, dare them to join you.
• Step 8: Give up If your friend isn’t nude by now, forget it. Remember, you can lead a person to water, but you can’t make them strip.
• FACT: Woody Harrelson was once caught skinny-dipping — with Owen Wilson!

You Will Need

• A smooth delivery
• Persuasion skills

Instructions

• : Never run along the side of a pool. Children should always swim with adult supervision.
• Step 1: Grab some friends Marco Polo works best if you’ve got a ton of friends with you. Pick a sunny day, organize a trip to a local pool or a back yard oasis, and dive on in.
• Step 2: Pick a Marco Pick someone to be ‘it’ or ‘Marco,’ and have them swim to the opposite end of the pool. As is tradition, feel free to taunt this person mercilessly.
• Step 3: Count down Marco has to close their eyes, and keep them closed throughout the game. Marco then counts to ten, which is everyone’s first chance to scatter around the pool. Be creative with your hiding place, and always keep moving, but whatever you do, don’t get out of the water!
• Step 4: Heed the call of Marco When the Marco is done counting to ten, they’ll shout ‘Marco!’ Everyone then has to shout the response call, ‘Polo.’ This shouting process is like sonar, and Marco can call out as much as he or she wants. Everyone has to respond.
• TIP: If you don’t shout ‘Polo,’ Marco can call you out on it. If Marco’s right, and you didn’t respond, you automatically become the next Marco.
• Step 5: Don’t get caught Now, it’s Marco’s job to swim around the pool trying to find a victim. Just like tag, if Marco touches you, you’re the new Marco.
• Step 6: Be a fish out of water In one version of the game, only Marco has to remain fully in the pool at all times. Everyone else can slip in and out as they want—but if Marco shouts ‘Fish out of water!’ while someone is out of the pool, they become the new Marco. If there is more than one person caught, Marco chooses the loser.
• FACT: Marco Polo’s account of his travels in China introduced the concept of paper money to the West.

You Will Need

• Friends
• A pool

Instructions

• Step 1: Moisten your mouth Before you attempt to spit seeds make sure your mouth is moist. Take a drink of water or a bite of watermelon. The seed needs lubrication in order to achieve good distance.
• Step 2: Choose your seeds wisely Select your weapon, er, seed wisely. The bigger the better. A heavier seed can fly farther than a lighter, smaller seed.
• : Limit the seeds in your mouth. Since taking a deep breath is part of the technique, you want to avoid choking on a seed!
• Step 3: Aim the seed With the small tip of the seed pointed forward in your mouth, take aim. Choose a target far in the distance.
• Step 4: Take a deep breath Take as deep a breath through your nose as you can. Remember, the more air, the farther you can propel the seed.
• Step 5: Technique A good spitting technique is essential. Lean back, and then throw your head and body forward when you spit, allowing both the air and the water to force your seed forward through the tunnel of your tongue.
• Step 6: Measure your progress Measure your distance and write it down. Knowing what is working and what isn’t will help you improve your technique.
• TIP: Spit at a loved one. Good seed spitting takes practice and motivation. If you’ve reached a plateau, spitting at a loved one may loosen you up and improve your technique.
• Step 7: Enter a competition As you get better and better, you may want to enter a competition. You never know. You could become the next watermelon seed-spitting world champion.
• FACT: In 1989, Lee Wheelis set the world record by spitting a watermelon seed 68 feet and nine and one-eighth inches.

You Will Need

• Watermelon seeds
• Water
• Lips
• A tongue
• A measuring tape
• A human target

Instructions

• Step 1: Take motion sickness medication Take an over-the-counter motion sickness medication, like Dramamine, at least an hour before you begin going on rides. But don’t take anything if you’re going to be behind the wheel, as these meds can cause drowsiness.
• Step 2: Take some ginger If you want a natural remedy, take a capsule or two of powdered ginger, available at health stores. Studies have shown ginger is effective in combating motion sickness.
• Step 3: Stay hydrated Sip water throughout the day. Being dehydrated increases your risk of ride-induced nausea and headaches.
• Step 4: Don’t stuff yourself Resist the urge to stuff yourself. Getting on a ride with a belly full of funnel cakes and corn dogs is just asking for it.
• TIP: Enjoy whatever junk food you want by eating mini-meals throughout the day.
• Step 5: Sit in the front If you have a choice, always sit in the front of the ride. Your chances of getting nauseous are higher in the back.
• Step 6: Avoid multiple motion Avoid rides with multiple motions. Sitting in a cup that is twirling, tilting, rising, and descending—all while moving counterclockwise—is a recipe for disaster.
• TIP: Rides with the highest barf factor are those that spin or rock back and forth, roller coasters with turns that are tight and frequent, and rides that often go upside down.
• Step 7: Try pressure point bracelets Try wearing pressure point bracelets; some people find them very effective. They’re available at drugstores.
• FACT: In 2003, an American man rode a roller coaster in an English amusement park for 401 hours, or more than 16 days.

You Will Need

• Motion sickness medication
• Water
• Self-control
• A seat at the front
• Pressure point bracelets
• Prescription motion sickness patches

Instructions

• Step 1: Prove your strength Win the ‘test your strength’ game—the one where you swing a mallet to make a weight shoot up and ring a bell—by focusing more on landing the mallet in the center of the target than on how hard you’re hitting it. But beware—some machines are rigged by the operator, who controls who wins simply by putting his foot on a cable.
• Step 2: Sink a basket Sink a basket by aiming for the basket to the right or left of the one in front of you. Shoot in a high arc and hope for a swish. If you miss, the angle might make the ball spin around the rim, causing it to drop in. Beware—some carneys won’t let you to shoot this way.
• TIP: Ask the carnie to sink a bucket before you waste any money. Sometimes the scam is that the basket is too small, the ball is overinflated, and/or the hoop is bent or misshaped.
• Step 3: Pop the balloon Pop the balloon with a dart by arcing it rather than rifling it. But even this might not work, because those balloons are underinflated and the dart tips are hopelessly dull.
• TIP: If the carnival is crowded and the carnie is distracted, heat the tip of the dart with a lighter, or quickly sharpen it with a stone.
• Step 4: Land the coin toss Land the coin toss—where you throw a dime or other coin toward a glass plate and hope it sticks—by spitting on it (discreetly!) before you toss it in a gentle arc.
• Step 5: Knock over the milk jugs Knock over the milk jug pyramid by aiming for the bottom of the bottom two jugs rather than the center of the stack. The bottoms of the jugs are weighted, so you’ve got to take out the pyramid at the base.
• Step 6: Shoot out the star Shoot out the red star by completely shooting around the edges of the star—in a circle—rather than aiming for the center.
• TIP: Watch others use the gun for a while; the sight is manipulated to be off-center, but by closely observing others you can compensate for the skew.
• Step 7: Break the beer bottles Break the beer bottles by choosing the baseball that looks the most used; it will be a tiny bit heavier than a newer one.
• Step 8: Blow up the balloon Blow up the balloon above the clown’s face by choosing the water pistol that won the last time. A new balloon will pop more easily than one that’s already been stretched out several times.
• FACT: The word ‘carnival’ partly derives from the Italian word for ‘meat,’ as it originally referred to a festival that took place before Lent, a time of fasting.

You Will Need

• Knowledge of the most common scams
• The determination to beat them