January 2020 - Official Blog-Phoenix Pop

Funny Fundraising Ideas – Event Types to Try

January 27, 2020

If you are looking to do some fundraising for your school, church, community center, or charity then you are probably in search of a way to make your campaign unique and interesting. The more fun people have at your fundraising event, the more likely they will be to donate. Incorporating that fun into your event in the form of quirky event games and activities can also turn your funny fundraising ideas into something special that people will love.

Funny Fundraising Ideas

Coming up with fundraising ideas to raise money can be challenging though. With different fundraising strategies to choose from, you can consider hosting a funny fundraising event. People will generally be bored of the more common activities and may be looking for something a bit more left of center. So here are a few quirky fundraising ideas that might work for your next charity event.

1. Augmented Reality Treasure Hunts Using Smartphones

You can find many smartphone apps that let you run augmented reality treasure hunts. These will generally use the GPS functionality of your phone to display an animated graphic or 3D model at a particular location in the real world. The treasure graphic is seen when the participant looks at a particular point through their smartphone camera and screen, with the graphic blended into the background of the real world. You can also use augmented reality to drop clues and hints that lead participants towards the prizes.

2. Pay to Have People Thrown in Jail

Have someone at the fundraising event dress up as a police officer. Set-up some jail areas and let people pay to have their friends arrested for five minutes or so. You can have your jail areas decorated with fake jail bars and arranged as photo booths where the people paying for the arrest can take pictures of their jailed friends.

3. Run Animal Races

Draw a large circle in an open area and then place some slower-moving animals in the center. Give each animal a number to identify them. The first animal that reaches the outside of the circle is the winner. You can do this with a variety of different animals, including young kittens or puppies and local wildlife such as crabs or lobsters. You can also use insects such as cockroaches.

Take bets on which animal will win and give the winners a prize or part of the pot. You might need to be careful that you don’t violate any gambling laws running this contest though.

4. Do Balloon Popping for Prizes

Buy a few packs of balloons and some prizes to give away. The prizes can be home-cooked food or other items donated by event volunteers. They can be prizes donated by local businesses. Or they can be prizes purchased for the event. Assign a code to each prize and put them up on a shelf on display at your event. Then write each prize code down on a piece of paper and put it in a balloon. Write down funny phrases, jokes, bits of amusing advice, or quirky fortunes and put them in the rest of the balloons. Have people pay to pop a balloon in order to win the prize associated with the enclosed code.

5. Set-up Mystery Box Prizes

This works similarly to the balloon popping activity but involves the code or prize placed into a fancy cardboard box. You and volunteers can set a time to create mystery boxes for your fundraiser. Get people to pay to open the box and receive a fun prize.

In Conclusion

These are just a few ideas to get you started. You can also sell discount cards at your school to help raise funds, and help out your community. Some fundraising tips are to plan ahead and set a goal. Brainstorm with the rest of your event volunteers and see what other funny fundraising ideas you can all come up with. With a bit of resourcefulness and a playful sense of humor, you should be able to turn your next fundraising event into something that your visitors will be happy to donate to.

What Are Cognitive Activities for Preschoolers? – What to Try

January 27, 2020

What are the ways to boost the mental well being of young kids? What are cognitive activities for preschoolers? A young mind learns a lot from playing. If you have a preschooler, you might have realized how fast she learns while playing. Therefore, it is important for parents to create a healthy and inspiring playing environment for their young kids to motivate them to learn. Playing can help them to learn communication and counting. It can boost imagination and problem-solving skills.

What Are Cognitive Activities for Preschoolers?

Preschoolers learn from every activity. Their mind always explores new things and your active participation is a must to even speed up the process. While playing, you can help them to develop their thinking ability, creativity, and social skills. Here are a few tips that you can consider to engage the mind of your preschooler so that they can fully enjoy all of the advantages of preschool.

Which Activities Help Most?

As stated earlier, all the activities can be helpful for mental growth. You just need to create a new situation each time to enable them to learn something new from it. For example, when they will play with a similar age group, they will learn communication. They will try to communicate with each other. When you will introduce them to some games such as snakes and ladders, it will boost the problem-solving skills and will create interest as well. They will try to learn the new game. The same applies for other situations such as fundraising. In order to know the importance of fundraising and enjoy it, it’s key to know how to have a successful fundraiser in the first place.

When your preschooler is playing, you will have to be around to answer their curious minds. You should never come forward to help them unless they want it. Let them play independently so that they can manage things on their own when they will be alone at their school. When it comes to games, you can consider the following:

Snakes and Ladders: This game will make your child organized and will introduce them to systematic playing. They will be familiar with numbers and counting.
Read books whenever you have time: Use a language that your kid can easily understand. It is noteworthy that reading and storytelling is the best way to boost the imagination of your kids. Your little one will be more creative in nature. Also, they will try to read and find out what is written. This can help familiarize your child with the alphabet.
Introduce construction games to your kids: This is ideal to improve problem-solving skills. It will also teach them patience. Ensure that you’re present while your child is playing this sort of game to guide them when they need help.

Conclusion

What are cognitive activities for preschoolers? Any game can contribute to the cognitive development of your preschooler. You just need to open up new possibilities so that your kids can explore new things at the preschool. With required exposure, they will get a better chance of learning. Every day, they will learn something new and will prepare themselves for the challenges ahead. If you still need more help with what you can do to help your child adjust to preschool, you should reach out to one near you.

Moving Tips and Tricks from a Personal Organizer

Moving Tips and Tricks from a Professional Organizer

January 24, 2020

Moving is never easy. You can decide to do everything by yourself, but that will take a lot of energy and time. So, what now? How about arming yourself with moving tips and tricks from a professional organizer? You heard that right, and it is one sure way to make your move easy and less stressful.

Moving Tips and Tricks from a Professional Organizer – Moving Checklist

This post knows how stressful moving can be. Whether you’re moving to Phoenix, Chandler, Scottsdale or anywhere else in the valley, it’s important to plan in advance. It is all about making the burden lighter and moving to the other side without a single incidence.

Now let’s see what the pros have in store for you to guarantee a smooth move.

Transfer Utilities Before You Move

You do not want to move into a dark house with no lights and running water. Take time off your schedule to follow up on utilities. Do this in good time so that everything will be in place when you arrive at your new home.

Hire Seasoned Movers as Soon as You Confirm Your Moving Date

Waiting to get close to the moving date is a bad idea. Movers will be booked and they may try and fit you into a different date. Book your movers early and keep them posted. The least you want is last-minute surprises when you are supposed to be moving out of your previous house.

Don’t Buy More Food Right Before Moving

The last two weeks are time to consume perishables in your fridge. You do not want the inconvenience of having to pack your vegetables just because you did not do your timing well. Eat everything and do not buy supplies towards the last days.

Donate or Sell your Non-essentials

There is no point of packing stuff you no longer use. They will consume space and your time. Donate them to a charity or organize an online sale. Only the things you don’t use should be first in the line of packing. Once you’ve done this, you can create a packing checklist, as you’ll know what is moving with you.

Pack a Separate bag for Things You Will Need During the Move

Medicine, water, chargers, light linen, warm clothes, and anything else you will need during the journey should be packed separately. If you will be traveling by your car, keep the bag with you.

Bottom Line

We hope these moving tips and tricks from a professional organizer will make the process effortless. Start planning early and follow your schedule, it doesn’t hurt to figure out what to pack first and start early. Moving should not be a stressful affair after all.

How Much Time Should You Spend Preparing for a Job Interview – How can I be successful in an interview?

January 15, 2020

If you are going to a job interview, please remember to think of it as a school exam – midterms or finals even. The biggest mistake job seekers make is showing up for interviews clueless. Overpreparation is also an issue, where you work like mad on a gazillion of potential interview questions, then you show up acting like a robot. The thing about the mind is if you spend a lot of your brain resources trying to comprehend or remember information, then you won’t enjoy conversations; then, bang goes any fond hopes of landing that job.

How Much Time Should You Spend Preparing for a Job Interview

If you are searching for a job, it is important to prepare for the interview. Professional recruiters say when you show up for an interview, therefore, you’ve got to be prepared. But how much time should you

spend preparing for a job interview? Well, preparing for midterms or finals exams at school takes 5 to 10 hours plus, therefore it’s only logical that you dedicate the same for interview preparations.

If you want to ace your first interview or your internal interview, here’s how to do it correctly:

How to distribute your interview preparation time?

Now that you know you need to commit 10+ hours to prepare for a promising interview, how do you allocate the time to researching the organization, polishing your answers, and practicing pay negotiations?

Follow the 20:40:40 approach

The 20:40:40 approach is a technique of allocating 20 percent of your time researching your potential employers. The other 40 percent is used in identifying potential interview questions and answers, and the last bit is spent honing those answers.

20 percent of the time researching the company:

The interviewers won’t miss asking you about the sector to gauge your interest. So be ready for questions about the firms, what they do, breakthroughs, challenges, and opportunities, etc.

40 percent researching questions and answers:

The next batch of questions is going to be as described in the job advert, your qualifications, skills, and qualities. This is where those academic hours and internships come in handy. Just make sure you

understand what you are going to be asked about. Familiarize yourself with the how to’s and be ready to give examples of success stories or moments when your skills came in handy in previous jobs/ internships.

40 percent polishing your answers:

This point where you build confidence by speaking the answers aloud, recording yourself, asking for other people’s feedback, and making the necessary adjustments on sound, speed, length of speaking time, etc. By polishing, your answers are going to stand out from the competition.

Lastly, remember that interviews are not gameshows. Overpreparation is just as worse as under preparation. You are going to look phony if you start to blurter answers like a robot. The key is to build a relationship. So, make those hours count because you can prepare for a day, a week, or two, but if you don’t comprehend what you are preparing for, then you are surely going to lose. And make sure to bring your resume with you.

What are Good Eid Gifts – Best Presents for Your Loved Ones

January 10, 2020

Everyone has a particular time they look forward to during the year. To Muslims, that time is Ramadan. It is a full month of fasting and dedication to help the needy. At the end of the month, faithfuls celebrate Eid. They sample all types of foods, wear exotic fragrance, and are generally happy. Other people use the chance to reward those close to them. But the question is: what are good eid gifts?

What are Good Eid Gifts

Whether you are giving gifts for Ramadan or Eid, it is important to choose the right one. If you are here looking for perfect gifts for Eid, this is the place for you. This post will suggest irresistible gifts that you

can give your spouse, kids, relatives, and friends and make them remember you forever. It is an extensive list, read and pick what appeals to your preferences.

Clothes

Eid is a time to be clean and tidy. A set of new clothes will go a long way to make it a memorable time. Anarkalis and salwars are perfect picks for women. Men will be overly delighted if you gift them a thobe and a scarf. Remember that the kind of clothes you choose should be in sync with the Eid traditions of the country.

Food

Like it or not but Eid is never complete without food. Order or prepare some delicacies and invite your relatives, friends and neighbors for a treat. Chocolates, fruits, dates, and a range of other sweet foods will be appreciated by your guests.

Money

Coincidentally, money is unofficially referred to as ‘eidi’ in some quarters. That means money gifts are common during Eid celebrations. If you have saved for this big day, you should gift your family and friends some of that money. Whoever is generous with their money earns respect of the rest. Keep the love going around by gifting those who need some money.

Islamic books

You want your kids and those in your neighborhood to grow on firm roots of Islam. You can set them on that path by gifting Islamic books. Books about prophets, Islam morals, and heroes will excite them. Buy as much as you can afford and surprise the young ones as they celebrate this important day.

Accessories

Teens and young adult Muslims are beyond receiving toys. Nevertheless, they deserve to get some Eid gifts. How about getting them accessories? Fragrances, jewelry, handbags and great quality watches will make their hearts melt. Find a few accessories that would match their style and you will be their favorite relative forever. Jewelry can also be a great gift for your girlfriend as well.

Volunteer or Donate to Charity

Well, Eid is a time to be generous to those around you. It is also the time to think and help the needy. Find a charity of your choice and make a donation. You can also volunteer and spend time with orphans, the sick, and the elderly.

Have you been wondering about what are good eid gifts? Now you have a wide list of eid gifts that you can make your choice. Pick your prizes depending on who you want to treat for eid and make their time the perfect experience. Do not forget those who need your help the most because this is what Ramadan is all about. And remember, whatever gift you choose, make sure you gift it in a surprising way.

How Many Days Do You Need for Disney World? – How to Fit Everything In

January 10, 2020

One of the most popular bucket list destinations in the world is a trip to Disney World. Do you want to visit the place? Well, then you need to plan accordingly and make sure everything is perfect. You have to figure out how much time you can allot to explore the entire theme park properly. The most important and frequently asked questions regarding the Disney World trip is how many days do you need for Disney World? If you are thinking the same, then you are at the right place.

How Many Days Do You Need for Disney World?

We are here to help you in different ways. We will offer you some of the best itinerary that can help you to decide the right number of days for your Disney World trip.

5 Days 6 Nights Trip

The perfect number of days that you can give for the Disney World trip is a complete package of 5 days and 6 nights without counting the check-in and check-out days. This is the perfect one as you will be able to explore the whole park completely and enjoy every bit of it thoroughly. The typical itinerary and best order to visit the parks within the 5 days 6 nights trip is:

Day 1: Check-in

Day 2: Magic Kingdom

Day 3: Epcot

Day 4: Spend time at the resort

Day 5: Animal Kingdom

Day 6: Hollywood Studios

Day 7: Return back

This is the best plan that you can follow to complete your Disney World trip. You should also look into tips for going to Universal Studios as well so that you know how to tackle that theme park. Also, this will provide you with a complete exploration time to explore outside the theme park as well.

8 Days at Disney World

If you are going to Disney World for once and it will be a once in a lifetime trip, then you can spend at least 8 days in this trip. You can explore the water parks, theme parks and many more things. Hence, adding these few extra days in your trip is the perfect way to explore the entire place thoroughly. There are many experiences and activities to do. Here is a complete itinerary for you that you can follow:

Day 1: Check in at the hotel

Day 2: Explore the Magic Kingdom

Day 3: Go to Epcot

Day 4: Trip to the Hollywood Studios

Day 5: Hangout at the Disney Resort

Day 6: A visit to the Animal Kingdom

Day 7: Go to Typhoon Lagoon

Day 8: Checkout

This is the ideal itinerary to follow if you are going to Disney World for once and you will not visit it again. Then, of course, you need to spare more time to visit the places properly and explore all.

In Conclusion

If you are wondering about how many days do you need for Disney World, this article has made it quite clear to you. Now it depends completely on you to realize whether you want a 5 day tour or 8 day one. Once you have figured that out, you can book the tickets to go to Disney World. Regardless of how long you plan on staying at Disney World, it’s important to know what to pack and how much to bring with you on the trip. The coming season is quite popular for the Disney World trip. You need to book your tickets fast. Once that is completed, you can then do your research and look into ways you can save money on food and what to pack with you depending on the season you’re going.

Ballpoint vs Rollerball vs Fountain – What are the best writing pens?

January 6, 2020

Choosing between a ballpoint, rollerball and fountain pen can be a bit confusing, especially considering the different types of ink each pen uses and how differently they write. Ultimately, it all depends on preference as well as the results you want to achieve. And that’s why it’s important to understand the differences between ballpoint vs rollerball vs fountain pens.

Ballpoint vs Rollerball vs Fountain

In this post, we’ll highlight the differences between fountain, rollerball and ballpoint pens. By the end of the article, you should be able to differentiate the various types of pens and choose the one that’s most appropriate for your application.

Ballpoint Pens

The ballpoint pen is without a doubt one of the most common and well-known types of pen. These pens use an oil-based ink that was originally designed as a more reliable and cleaner alternative

to fountain pens. The pens allow for a wide range of shading, which makes them appropriate for everyday use as well as for industrial engineers and artists. They come in various tip sizes with the most common being the fine tip that is about 0.7mm and the medium tip that is about 1.0mm.

Pros

Long-lasting ink refill
Dries quickly
Less finicky or fussy
Smooth writing

Cons

Messy
Not the best choice for long writing

Rollerball Pens

Rollerball pens use water-based liquid ink. The ink flows fast, creating a nice vivid line. They use water-based ink and a ballpoint mechanism. They come in tip sizes of between 0.5mm and 0.7mm. These types of pens are designed with finer tips and smaller balls because they flow faster than their ballpoint pen ink counterparts.

Pros

Less pressure required to write
Large color selection
Quick-drying
Dark line

Cons

Not travel-friendly
Uncapped pens leak
Short ink refill life
Bleed and feathering

Fountain Pens

Fountain pens use a nib to write and use a converter, cartridges or come with a built-in reservoir to hold ink. The pen draws ink from the cartridge/reservoir through a feed system with the use of capillary action and gravity. The reservoir can be filled with an internal piston style filling system, a syringe or pipette. Fountain pens that use a converter/cartridge filling system accept a pre-filled ink cartridge or draw ink into a converter.

Fountain pen nibs come with a wider section of tip sizes and compared to ballpoint and rollerball style pens.

Pros

Eco-friendly
Line variation
Huge color section and many cartilage types available
More customizable

Cons

Most difficult to use and require more maintenance. Filling a fountain pen and cleaning a fountain pen are both things that need to be maintained.

Bottom Line

Each type of pen has its own benefits and drawbacks. So, when comparing ballpoint vs rollerball vs fountain pens, weigh all your options. The right pen for you depends on what you’re using your pen to do as well as your writing style. With the tips mentioned, you should be in a better position to make the right choice.