Payless Car Rental Blog

Every year millions of Americans celebrate Memorial day, but many do not know the history of or reason for this holiday. At this moment in our nation’s history it is important for us to understand this holiday, and to celebrate it with a new understanding and reverence.

The concept for the holiday began in the 1850′, when towns would gather together in remembrance of Civil War soldiers who fell in combat. In the South many organized women’s groups decorated the graves of confederate soldiers. These activities spurred the creation of a national holiday. Memorial day was officially recognized on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan. The first celebration was observed on May 30 when flowers were placed on Union and Confederate soldiers’ graves, in Arlington National Cemetery.   In 1873, New York became the first state to recognize the holiday and by 1890 the majority of northern states had officially adopted the holiday. The southern states did not recognize the holiday, and held a similar holiday on different days. After World War I, the holiday was changed to include honoring all who have fallen in combat. Currently, the holiday is held on the last Monday in May.

In 1915, Moina Michael started the tradition of wearing poppies on Memorial day, in honor of those who died in combat. She was inspired by the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ and even wrote her own poem:

We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal from the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.

This tradition not only spread throughout the states, but also spread to other countries. In 1922, the VFW became the first veterans’ association to sell poppies nationally. The United States Postal Service honored Moina in 1940 for her role in the National Poppy movement by issuing a special red, three cent stamp.

More recently, Memorial day has been losing its meaning and traditional observances have become increasingly rare. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

here are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50′s on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye’;s Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.

As Memorial day approaches, let us take the time to remember those who have fallen in combat. Many state and national veterans’ cemeteries have moving services for Memorial day. This year let’s take some time to honor our fallen heroes.

Merchant, David M. “Memorial Day” (1994).
       http://www.usmemorialday.org/

Wait spring, as in summer is just around the corner?
Well if you are still working towards your New Year’s resolution of losing those holiday pounds, then you and I are in the same boat.  Don’t let the passing months discourage you from striving to be a healthier, more confident you!  For many – work weeks can be exhausting, whether you’re in the office, driving from point a to point b, or at home taking care of a million different things.  Let’s face it, every day life can be stressful, and sometimes the last thing on our minds is to hit up the gym. But the truth of the matter is that everyone should take 15-20 minutes per day to MOVE!  You don’t need fancy equipment, or a membership to a gym that costs more than your car. It’s simple, and when I say simple I mean there is a workout designed for everyone, everywhere, no matter your age. Follow these pointers to jump start your fitness program!

1)       Take it easy:  As silly as it sounds, whenever starting a new exercise program you have to ease your body into it, or you will be feeling the workout day after day.

2)       Take a cruise: Not in your car, but stroll through your neighborhood, a park, a track, or for those limited by space walk in place.

3)       One of the easiest ways to get your heart rate up without using fancy equipment is doing good ole jumping jacks. Sound too easy?  Try 50 jumping jacks and then see how tired you are. Increase the intensity by doing intervals of 15 fast, 5 slow, or make the exercise less intense by not swinging your arms and legs in full motion

4)       If mid afternoon is a sluggish time for you  pop in a 15 minute exercise video.  You never know, you may encourage other co workers/friends/family members.

5)       Remember, exercise alone doesn’t keep your body in tip top shape. You must incorporate healthy eating. When I hear healthy I assume, another strict diet consisting of soy and tofu. But don’t let those foods discourage you. Here are a few tips to eating better:

-  Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Your daily food selection should include bread/whole-grain products; fruits; vegetables; dairy products; and meat, poultry, fish.

- Eat moderate portions.

- Eat regular meals. Skipping meals can lead to out-of-control hunger, often resulting in overeating.

-  Reduce, don’;t eliminate certain foods.

-  Make changes gradually. Just as there are no “super foods” or easy answers to a healthy diet, don’;t expect to totally revamp your eating habits overnight…

Last but not least, remember foods are not good or bad. Select foods based on your eating patterns, not whether any individual food is “good” or “bad.” Don’;t feel guilty if you love foods such as cake, potato chips, candy bars or ice cream. Eat them in moderation, and choose other foods to provide the balance and variety that are vital to good health.

Follow these small steps to become a more fit, happy you! 
Remember, the key to long-term weight loss success is being optimistic. 

Cheers to positive thinking!

Does it feel like the wheels are always spinning? 
Well don’t let added chaos drive you over the edge, because we’re not talking about spring cleaning here, we’re talking about the fact spring time for many is family reunion time.  For some, the very thought of reunion makes spring cleaning look not all so bad. 
Remember, reunions are a time to gather around with the people you love and have shared so many memories with, and to really take the time to see what’s been going on in their lives.  Now granted this may sound a little over the top for some, but the key to having an enjoyable time is planning, planning, planning.  Follow these 10 simple steps to make your next reunion a success!

1) Select the date(s). Whether you plan your family reunion to coincide with a family milestone or a special day, a summer vacation, or a holiday, it helps to poll family members to avoid date conflicts.
2) Pick a location. Preferably within driving distance, although not always an attainable goal.
3) Create a guest list.
4) Form a reunion committee. I know it sounds a little silly, but a reunion committee is essential to planning a smooth, successful family reunion; not to mention it puts less stress on you!
5) Develop a budget.
6) Determine the menu. Hire a caterer, or organize a group of family members to prepare the food for the reunion
7) Plan social activities. Don’t let the only activity consist of standing in line at the buffet table. Get moving! Water polo anyone?
Say cheese! Nothing says family reunion more than photographs and recordings of the event.
9) Decorate for the big day. Create catchy signs to point arriving guests to parking, etc. Planning a reunion is hard enough, so don’t make your brain go into overdrive, purchase pre-made name badges, or print your own.
10) Keep the fun going. Designate a volunteer or volunteers to create and send out a post-reunion newsletter with stories, photos and news items from the reunion.

Most of all, remember that these people are your family, and no matter how the reunion turns out, they’ll always remain family. Group hugs everyone!

Clearwater, Florida is just across the bay from Tampa. Though I was born in California, I was raised in this gorgeous town. There are tons of tourist hot spots, here are some of my favorites. Some very well known, and not so well known. If your headed to Clearwater check them out!

CLEARWATER BEACH: Ranked one of the top 10 beaches by USAToday.com, Clearwater beach boasts white, powder sands and warm Gulf waters. After a day of fun in the sun, head over to Pier 60 for the daily celebration of Sunsets at Pier 60. Two hours before sunset and two hours after, vendors setup to sell handmade wares. For a breathtaking and tranquil view of the sunset, stroll down the pier. It’;s worth the fifty cents to enter the fishing area, where you can enjoy the unobstructed view of the sunset.

TARPON SPRINGS: Historic and serene, the city of Tarpon Springs offers a vast array of activities. Steeped with Mediterranean culture brought by the Greek sponge divers, the area offers rich cuisine and a unique style all its own. Peruse the shops at the Sponge Docks, where you can watch a live sponge diving exhibition. Don’;t forget to stop in one of the Greek bakeries, where you can get some of the best baklava in the area! On your way back to the hotel, stop by Ballyhoos for a relaxed dining experience on their outdoor deck.

DOWNTOWN DUNEDIN: For the perfect 1 -day trip, head over to the beautifully restored Main Street of Dunedin. This area has a refreshing village-like atmosphere, which can relax even the most stressed of travelers. Stop by Kelly’;s for a quick  bite and leisurely stroll through the many shops. When you have finished exploring head down to the Dunedin Marina, where you can fish off the pier or watch the sunset.  After the sunset head over to  the Purple Moon coffee shop for some decadent treats and live music.

March is one of my favorite months of the year. If you’re as much of a die hard baseball fan as I am, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. The smell of peanuts, popcorn, and the sound of the roaring crowd all huddled on the bleachers at spring training games. Alright, not everyone may have the same memories as I do, but spring training marks the start of spring, and the end of dreaded winter. Now it’s time to pull out those baseball caps, and check out your favorite teams up and coming players. The great thing about living in Florida is the fact that 10 major league teams have their spring training here. It’s the most opportune time to take down that convertible top, and drive to a game. For vacationers, transportation is important. I am proud to say that Payless Car Rental has 5 locations in Florida; Tampa, Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Ft. Myers, and St. Petersburg.
Pick your choice of car, from a convertible to an SUV; just make sure you get to the game on time! Visiting Tampa anytime soon? Payless Car Rental has two locations, one serving the Tampa International Airport, and another that serves the Tampa local community. Cruise down the road to see the Yankees, Devil Rays, Phillies, or Reds, all within a 20 mile radius of the Tampa International Airport.
Let’s not forget about the Arizona Cactus League teams. Phoenix is the hot spot for spring training fans! Be sure to reserve your next car rental at Payless of Phoenix, which serves the Sky Harbor Airport as well. Drive to see the Brewers, Athletics, or Angels.
So what are you waiting for? Reserve your next car rental at one of these hot destinations, and get the deal that you’ve been waiting for! Batters up!

Daylight Saving Time (DST) has been a controversial subject since Benjamin Franklin first conceived of the idea, but most Americans have gotten used to the bi-annual changing of the clocks. One question that often pops up when the time draws near is,Why?” The reason is quite simple, we are able to enjoy more daylight during the summer evenings by moving our clocks forward. A few misconceptions surround this event, and here are a few clarifications:

1.) Is it Daylight Saving Time or Daylight Savings Time?
a. Saving is used here as a verbal adjective (a participle). It modifies time and tells us more about its nature; namely, that it is characterized by the activity of saving daylight. It is a saving daylight kind of time. Similar examples would be a mind expanding book or a man eating tiger. Saving is used in the same way as saving a ball game, rather than as a savings account.

Nevertheless, many people feel the word savings (with an ‘s’) flows more mellifluously off the tongue. Daylight Savings Time is also in common usage, and can be found in dictionaries.

Adding to the confusion is that the phrase Daylight Saving Time is inaccurate, since no daylight is actually saved. Daylight Shifting Time would be better, but it is not as politically desirable. (Douman, webexhibits.org)

2.) What time do I change my clock?
a. In the U.S., clocks change at 2:00 a.m. local time. In spring, clocks spring forward from 1:59 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.; in fall, clocks fall back from 1:59 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. In the EU, clocks change at 1:00 a.m. Universal Time. In spring, clocks spring forward from 12:59 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.; in fall, clocks fall back from 1:59 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.

3.) What day do I change my clock?
a. This year is somewhat different for the United States and changes to the second Sunday in March. That means that in the U.S. you will ‘spring forward’ (set your clock ahead one hour) at 2:00 AM on March 11, 2007. In the European Union you will ‘spring forward’ at 1:00 AM on March 25, 2007.

Soon you’ll be able to book your next Payless rental in the Canadian cities of Montreal or Toronto. With locations planned for Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (ADM) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), these locations will offer travelers to Canada the low rates and quality service that Payless Car Rental customers have come to expect.

Payless Car Rental re-launches its website with the consumer in mind.

To celebrate a renewed focus on the customer, Payless has totally redesigned its website. The car rental company is hoping that the customer friendly changes will help increase traffic as well as sales through the website. Payless has carefully redesigned their website with their customers in mind. The redesign allows customers to easily navigate through the website.

The release of the redesigned reservation engine will be the first step in creating a more customer-friendly website. The current reservation engine is adequate for customers to reserve their rentals, but Payless is in the process of creating a reservation engine that does much more. The new engine will not only be easier to use, but will also allow customers additional savings and options.

Hard to decide where to take the family on the next vacation? Well… there are plenty of choices! Maybe I am biased because I live only hours from the front doorstep, but my personal favorite family destination is the Disney theme parks in Orlando, FL. For me, Disney is truly the happiest place on earth! There is so much to do at Disney, both for adults and children, that it makes it the ideal destination for almost any family.

Here are a few points of interest:

1.) Magic Kingdom: This is the most visited of the parks, with the ever famous Cinderella’s castle as the backdrop. As you enter you a greeted by Main Street USA, which is a beautifully designed replica of the American main streets of old. Many people make the mistake of perusing through the shops before heading into the park, but I recommend you save this until last. This area is opened after the rides are closed, and can be the last on your list to do for the day.

Directly past and framed by Main Street is the landmark Cinderella’s castle, using the circular courtyard as a meeting place if someone in your party gets lost is a very good idea. It is best to make a circular pass of the park, if you are trying to get everything in one day. If you go counterclockwise you’ll hit Tomorrowland first, with rides such as Buzz Light Year’s Space Ranger Spin and Space Mountain this area has rides both for the adults and children.

Passing the Small World ride you’ll find Liberty Square, which has the Haunted Mansion, Riverboat rides, and the Hall of Presidents. The Haunted Mansion is a slow ride, but may not be suitable for very young children.

The final area is Frontierland and Adventureland, which is popular with the rollercoaster buffs! You’ll find Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Pirates of the Caribbean! One of my favorite rides (though a little hokey) is the River Boat tour! This ride is suitable for all in the family, and depending on the tour guide, can be one of the most entertaining rides you’ll have all day.

There are several places to eat at the park, but if you’re looking to save money, I would recommend that you eat a hearty breakfast before heading to the park. Then you just spend money on drinks and snacks until dinner. All-in-all, the Magic Kingdom is one of the best parks on Disney property, and it continues to inspire children year after year.

2.) Downtown Disney:

Driving a car in an unfamiliar city is not only stressful, but can be dangerous as well. Taking the time to prepare you and your family, can help reduce the stress and risk of driving in a new environment. Here are some quick tips to help you prepare:

<!–[if !supportLists]–>1.) <!–[endif]–>Check the Car: Whether you are driving your own car or renting, it is imperative that you ensure that your vehicle is prepared for your trip. Get the oil changed, check your lights and windshield wipers, ensure that your tires are properly inflated/rotated, and make sure everything is in good working order.

<!–[endif]–>

<!–[if !supportLists]–>2.) <!–[endif]–>Get to Know the Area: Though you may have never been to the place you’ll be driving to/in, there are steps you can take to familiarize yourself with the area. Buying a map is the first step, but you can do a bit more. If you have a set itinerary of where you are going, use a service such as Mapquest.com to map out your routes to and from your hotel. You can also call the city’s visitors bureau and ask them about the area you are visiting, that way you not only can get familiar with the area, but you also can add interesting destinations you did not previously know about.

<!–[endif]–>

<!–[if !supportLists]–>3.) <!–[endif]–>Be Alert: Never drive if you are tired! If you are getting tired at the wheel, stop and let another person drive for awhile. If you don’t have anyone else driving with you it seems silly, but if you feel tired find a rest stop and take a nap. It is better to arrive late and alive, than not to arrive at all.

<!–[endif]–>

<!–[if !supportLists]–>4.) <!–[endif]–>Always Wear Your Safety Belt: It is not only smart, but in many areas it is the law. The reason is clear, seat belts save lives. Don’t start the car without having everyone put their seatbelts on. If you have children too small for seatbelts, ensure that they have an appropriate child seat or harness.

You can’t plan for everything, but by taking these precautions you minimize many of the risks associated with driving. They are all easy to do, so ensure you and your family’s safety by taking the time. Remember, safety first!