Standard Bank Blog

Today Groundhog Day is celebrated. Many different cities celebrate but the most notable and recognized event is held every year in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The popular groundhog Punxsutawney Phil determines whether or not there will be six more weeks of winter, or if spring will come early. Phil, the groundhog, determines this by coming out of his home this morning. If Phil sees his shadow, it means there will be six more weeks of winter. If Phil does not see his shadow, it means spring will come early.

It is important to remember that Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions are not always accurate. Only 39% of the time Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions have been correct. Regarding your financial future, it is better to listen to the human Phil (myself) and not Punxsutawney Phil.

Out with the old, in with the new. The old year, and the old you. This year you’re going to change everything—eat healthier, get organized, exercise more, spend less.

We’ve all had these big ideas as we greet the beginning of a new year. And we’ve all experienced the discouragement that comes in a month or so when we realize that, in spite of our good intentions, nothing much has really changed.

There’s something about a fresh, new year that inspires lofty goals and big, sweeping resolutions, but for many of us, it’s easier to make changes in small, bite-size steps. Here are some tips for cutting some common resolutions down to a more manageable size. Follow them, and you could be looking at BIG successes come New Years 2013!

I hope all of our loyal readers agree with us when we say that 2011 was a great year.  Our blog continues to grow thanks to your support.  We know 2012 is going to be an exciting year and we look forward to continue bringing you interesting and relevant posts to read about.

He may have been making his list and checking it twice, but with high-tech modern gadetry and incredible amounts of private funding, now we can finally turn the tables on jolly-old Saint Nick and do a little spying of our own!

We present, once again, by way of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), Santa Claus' present position on this Christmas Day:

Columbus Day first became a national holiday in 1937 to commemorate the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492. After a 2 month journey from Spain Columbus first landed in the Bahamas. He set up Spain's first colony with his 39 men before returning to report his findings. It took him 3 trips to realize these were not the lands he had set out to find. His journey to find a western route to China and India had actually run him into a new world, The Americas.

The first celebration of Columbus Day was in 1792 to celebrate the landing's 300th

This Sunday September 11th, 2011, will mark the official 10-Year Anniversary of the series of attacks made on our country. While this event will forever be a tragedy to the citizens of the United States, it will always live on through the memories of both those involved and those affected in any way during these events.

From the simplest acts, to the more compound acts, there are never enough ways to respect the tragic events of the past. Here are some ways you can honor the memory of September 11th, 2011:

Labor Day is right around the corner, and if you have not started thinking about what to do this Labor Day, it might be time to start. Labor Day marks the end of summer for most. Many families may take quick vacations or simply want to relax and take in the warm weather. Here are a few ideas for you this Labor Day:

• Go to the beach - Take in the last few days of summer at the beach, as the warm weather is on its way out.
• Have a family barbeque - There is nothing like getting your family and friends together for a summer cookout in the backyard.

In celebrating the United States’ liberty and freedom this Independence Day, remember that the best times in life are those times shared with family and friends. Here are just a few ways you can enjoy those times on the 4th of July in the beautiful summer weather:

1. Take a Tour- Whether it be a formalized tour or an impromptu tour, take time to learn about the city or state you live in and celebrate its rich history!

2. Enjoy a Swim- Spend the hot summer day at your local or community swimming pool. Cool off while under the sun and feel refreshed for the day’s activities!

3. Have a BBQ Party- Invite friends and family over to celebrate the nation’s day of independence. Relax with some great food and drinks and each other’s company!

4. Go to a Parade- Find your local or community parade location and enjoy the participants as they entertain you and dish out treats!