The People of Pakistan need your help.
September 2, 2010
As of Sept. 1, over 20% of Pakistan was still under water and the estimated death toll had reached 1,600. 6 million people are now homeless with an estimated 17 million affected. The flood victims of Pakistan desperately need your help. Donate your points to the Red Cross Flood program today.
To see just how much damage has been done, please look at this map, or watch this video from the Red Cross.
The i-Say Blogger
Charity of the month - Cancer Society
September 2, 2010
The Cancer Society funds research on all different types of cancer and offers great support for both patients and their loved ones. We’ve received several letters from members nominating the Cancer Society as i-Say’s Charity of the Month. So – September’s charity of the month is the Cancer Society!
September is also Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. To learn more about the Cancer Society or to get involved please visit their website. You can also donate your points to the Cancer Society!
The i-Say Blogger
Is it really convenient?
August 30, 2010
In the early 00’s, online shopping for many people was considered a no-no. There were scams, security violations, shady dealers and an overall sense that there was risk involved when ordering online.
Fast forward to 2010, it seems as though the online world has stepped up a notch and made shopping from your computer as rewarding and carefree as going to the mall. Never have I felt so good as when I bought a new pair of khaki’s from my living room couch while watching Sunday afternoon films on the movie network. It’s a perfect set-up. No longer do you have to deal with the crowded malls, frustrating line-ups and out of stock signs that typically come with the shopping experience. And it’s only getting better. There are hundreds (thousands, millions) of online sites that allow you to purchase products online.
And we wanted to know how web-savvy you were, and how often (if at all) you buy online.
I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
The i-Say Blogger
That's Garbage.
August 27, 2010
Recycle, Reduce, Reuse and waste? Many of us are very waste conscious and there are many programs in place that can help organize our newspapers, bottles and cans, and even compost. But where does the i-Say panel stand on smelly, stinky garbage?
I average about one bag of garbage a week. A very small bag. And my recycling is quadruple that. I also have a composter that I really believe helps cut down on my garbage. But some of us still have a very high number of bags we throw away each week.
Is it because there are more family members per household? Perhaps the local city or state hasn’t initiated a recycling plan yet? Either way, here are the results from our nationwide polls last week…
The i-Say Blogger
Pointing in the right direction
August 25, 2010
During the last few months, some of you may have experienced a delay in receiving your points. Although it has taken us longer than expected to update your point information on the site (we’re only human after all), we’re almost finished! We may experience more bumps along the way but please know you will always get the points you’ve earned. Check your points now!
Thanks again,
The i-Say Blogger
Tired of the same old pictures?
August 19, 2010
Me too. I’ve had the same profile picture for months now, maybe longer, and I can’t seem to find any pictures of myself that I like enough to post. Enter Mosaic. I was randomly searching the web when I came across a very interesting picture generator that recreates your picture from tons of tiny other pictures. Something I have always wanted to do. I’m sure you have seen them before, but the amount of work that goes into a Mosaic can be excruciating (and can really make the whole experience unpleasant). But wait. Not only is this generator FREE, but it takes mere moments to create. And yes, before you ask, I am going to share the one I created for my new profile pic.
Intrigued? Make yours today.
The i-Say Blogger
Poll Share- Who wants top spot?
August 13, 2010
It's yours to be had! Poll Share has been live for a couple of weeks now and there have been some great questions by many of our panelists. Our top poll so far, from Gail, has over 400 votes. Check it out and let her know the 1 thing you cannot start your day without. Then we'd like you to get creative. Make your own poll and see how many votes you can get. Who knows? Next month you could have the Most Popular poll on Poll Share. And make sure you vote! Find out what your fellow panelists are asking and give your opinion. And for the record... I can't start my day without a hot, fresh cup of coffee.
Til next time!
Newsfeed Staff
The Dreaded Three Year Term
August 11, 2010
My cellphone contract was set to expire this month after a very long 3 years. I originally signed with a reputable company who had a great deal on a ‘free’ cell if I just promised to stay for the term. It was a solid plan, the phone worked well and it seemed like the perfect situation. Until my phone stopped working. Or I used more minutes than expected. Or when I accidently left my phone on during my vacation to Mexico and racked up a whopping $250 bill for roaming charges (I’m not bitter, am I?). But I digress. We all have a story about our phone company and how they pulled the wool over our eyes. But then I got to thinking. Maybe this entire cell phone thing is built to be a pain in everyone’s neck. After all, we did somehow manage to survive before cells. Who doesn’t remember the pager days of the early 90’s? So We asked the panel what a typical bill was. We wanted to know (more specifically, I wanted to know) if everyone incurs the same costs. That way, I don’t have to complain about what I pay per month on average, because I’ll have the comfort of knowing that we all generally pay the same costs. Check out the results and then go over to our Facebook page and let us know if you are happy with your cell provider.
Happy chatting!
Survey Results:
Newsfeed Staff
What Gaming System has your loyalty?
August 9, 2010
Or does it simply come down to which has the best technology? Either way, there are many gaming systems available in the marketplace and have come a long way from Pong. With the introduction of the Wii in 2006, the gaming world forever changed (and in a big way). And what is the competition doing, you may ask?
Read this interesting Ipsos News article and find out what you can look forward to seeing on store shelves and ,possibly, in your living room. Personally, I’m sticking with my good old fashioned NES. Mario for life.
Full article available here
Newsfeed Staff
Charity of the Month: Big Brothers and Sisters
August 5, 2010
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures. We do this potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that try to have a measurable impact on youth. We nurture children and strengthen communities. And we couldn’t do any of it without you.
Have you ever been a Big Brother or Big Sister? Or, have you ever had a Big Brother or Big Sister? We invite you to share your personal stories about how Big Brothers and Big Sisters have touched your lives. Send them to us and we’ll post some throughout the month.
Donate today!
Newsfeed Staff
Charity Tally for July
August 5, 2010
When we started counting the Charity donations, some of us weren’t sure who would want to donate their points. But, we did know that the results would be impressive. So keep up the good work. There are a lot of great charities that need your help.
Here is the total number of points generously donated in July 2010:
355,500 points
Newsfeed Staff
Do you give back?
August 3, 2010
Our charity program has, up to this point, been very successful. We have had donations from members tallying almost 6 million points to charities like: Habitat for Humanity, The David Suzuki Foundation and The Nature Conservancy (to name a few). But how many panelists have given back? Although the numbers could be higher, we are very confident that you too can give back and donate your points. Imagine how much we could give back if everyone decided to give up just a fraction of their points to these and other fine charities. Here are the results from our latest Quick Poll.
Donate today
Newsfeed Staff
What’s been missing from your life?
July 22, 2010
That may be a tough question to answer but we may have a small solution that just so happens to be on the i-Say site. Poll Share has now launched on the new i-Say site and that’s nothing to shake a stick at. Poll Share is a fun feature designed to put polls right into your hands. You create the question, pick the answers and watch the results. You can even post pictures and videos right inside of your poll. Not only that, but you have the entire panel that is going to help you answer those questions. And don’t forget, you can vote on every poll too. Getting excited? I know we are. Go check out Poll Share today and see who the real Poll masters are.
Newsfeed Staff
Is the recession really over?
July 20, 2010
Many people are starting to talk about the final stages of the recent recession and the return to normal life. And that could mean that jobs start to open up. I haven’t heard any powerful evidence one way or the other, but sometimes it’s good to have faith and begin that transition back to the way things were. For some of us, we’ve held down jobs, taken pay cuts or found work elsewhere to survive. Others have been a little less fortunate and have had to deal with job loss and unemployment during the ‘session’. But with things eventually peaking back up, there are certain skills we should brush up on. I found an interesting article for anybody looking to get back into the workforce, or are thinking about new employment once we are all back on our feet. Take a look at how Scribd.com teaches up how to answer the 64 toughest interview questions. If that’s not enough, jump over to our Facebook page and give your thoughts on how you’re doing during the recession.
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: Was the G20 summit a success?
July 14, 2010
Thanks G20 – It was a riot!
The G20 summit is now over in Toronto, Ontario and now is time to reflect on what progress was made. During the summit and over the week leading up to it, many people decided to take to the streets and protest while others stayed home and watched the events unfold from the safety of their homes.
Now, we all know there are 3 sides to every story. Many peaceful protesters have made powerful statements about being unfairly treated; having their rights taken away from them and being arrested unlawfully. The other side of the coin is that police cars were being burned, windows smashed, and violent acts all took part before any police interruption. Regardless of what went on, the truth may just be somewhere in the middle.
One can only hope that in future summits, wherever they take place, safety and equality will take precedence over violence and anarchy – and that goes for both sides. But now that it’s all over and done with, we want to know where you stand. And whether it was even a big deal.
Check out the latest results below. If you haven’t had a chance to give your opinion, visit our Facebook page and let us know what you think.
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: Who do you think will win the World Cup?
July 8, 2010
Oh Predictions
We all have a team of choice. Mine is England. The high flying Brits were expected to do great things this World Cup. With the likes of Rooney and Lennon, Terry and Crouch, Barry and Defoe; this team had it all on paper, but with no results during the big show. They were eliminated by the German team in the first round. With the sour taste of defeat still lurking, we posted a Quick Poll last week to see who everyone else was cheering for.
As of today it's down to 2 teams, but some of us guessed right when predicting Spain and Netherlands would be meeting in this final. I've also managed to get over England's defeat and have predicted a Dutch cup in 2010.
Here's a look at who everybody had going into last week.
Nows your chance to vote on who you think will win in Sunday's match. Head to your Available Surveys page to vote now!
Newsfeed Staff
Charity Tally for June
July 5, 2010
When we started counting the Charity donations, some of us weren’t sure who would want to donate their points. But, we did know that the results would be impressive. So keep up the good work. There are a lot of great charities that need your help.
Here is the total number of points generously donated in June 2010:
454,990 points
Newsfeed Staff
Charity of the Month: Habitat for Humanity
June 30, 2010
We seek to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. We invite people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need.
Over 350,000 houses around the world have been built so far! That means housing for more than 1.75 million people in 3,000 communities with safe, decent, affordable shelter.
Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses alongside our homeowner (partner) families.
Families in need of decent shelter are always encouraged to apply to local Habitat affiliates. If you would like more information on applying or volunteering in your community, please visit our website. (http://www.habitat.org)
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: How do you commute?
June 30, 2010
Zoom Zoom Zoo!
I was intrigued when the results from our recent Quick Poll “How do you commute?” came off the press. As a public transit user (and advocate), I see hundreds, if not thousands, of people every day going into the subway station. I mean, it is environmentally friendly (at least when compared to cars) and worth every penny. But before I moved into the big city, driving was the only means of transportation I had. Unless I rode my bike 45 minutes to the bus terminal. It didn’t quite seem possible to get around without a car. From these results, it seems as though a lot of our members have the same need.
Take a look at just how many of us rely on our cars to commute.
Survey Results:
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: Friend Request
June 22, 2010
We have a Facebook page. We also like having fans. Feel free to add us if you want so we can chat about how much we like Modern Family (is it just us, or is that show awesome?). We’re also revamping our Twitter account if you love to tweet. We’ll be using it more in the coming months so follow us for our latest ‘144 character’ rants. And as for the panel? Take a look who has an FB account and who doesn’t. Perhaps you non-socialites should join us. You don’t know what you’re missing.
Survey Results:
64,804 voters
Newsfeed Staff
How traffic helps commute
June 15, 2010
Darn pesky traffic.
Every morning I used to go through the same thing. Wake up just a little earlier than I should have to, leave a little earlier than I want to, and sit like everybody else on the highway trying to make my way into the office. Cars piled up like herds of sheep trying to make it through the fences. Mindless drones fixed with one hand on the wheel while the other hand grips a hot mug of coffee. Well, at least that’s what it felt like for me.
The point is that there was always traffic and, as far as I can see, there WILL always be traffic. So I decided to toss the car and rely on the local transit system to get me to and from work. Since switching my commute has been cut in half and other than the occasional odd smell, it couldn’t be easier. I’ve even started to read more as a result. The difference is night and day.
This week on the Quick Poll, we want to know how you get around. Check it out.
And maybe you should look at the benefits of your transit system. You never know.
Newsfeed Staff
This One's For You
June 10, 2010
Good morning, good evening, or good day.
Today, in the spirit of taking some you time, the i-Say panel team invites you to take part in a fun little experiment. This one is just for you.
Here’s what you need to do.
Grab a hot beverage, some freshly squeezed orange juice or your drink of choice and turn on your sound.
Open these 3 links in order, in three different tabs or windows (just right click). Then sit back, relax and enjoy.
‘Til next time.
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: How Clean Is Your Fridge
June 2, 2010
It’s spring cleaning time; the dreaded time of year when we have to buckle down, roll up our sleeves and tidy our homes. Luckily I live in an apartment so my cleaning isn’t as extensive as it could be. But there was one major task that I completely overlooked- the refrigerator. It seems my roommate and I both forgot to clean out the fridge last year and the end result was something that looked like a grade 10 science project. Now my imagination may be getting the better of me here, but my crisper had grown legs and arms. The expired salad dressings and yogurts were talking amongst themselves and the onions were making other veggies cry. It took some bravery, a whole lot of disinfectant, and hours of painstaking scrubbing, but we got it done. And we’ve promised not to let it get that out of hand again. Hopefully my experience encourages our members into cleaning their fridges at least twice a year.
Here are the results for how often you do clean out your fridge:
Survey conducted between May 25 - June 1, 2010.
Newsfeed Staff
Charity of the Month: David Suzuki Foundation and Nature Conservancy
June 1, 2010
David Suzuki Foundation
Our mission is to protect the diversity of nature and our quality of life, now and for the future.
Some of the environmental issues that we’re working on finding solutions to are:
- Climate Change: Finding new sources of energy, making policy commitments to reduce our emissions, and making smarter decisions as consumers are just some of the ways we can help solve the problem.
- Health: Preventing pollutants and toxics from entering our environment and bodies will help improve our health.
- Oceans: Changes under the surface are taking place. Things like pollution and climate change threaten the coastal and marine environments and wildlife.
- Wildlife & Habitat: Protecting the environment and biodiversity is more than a moral responsibility; it has important consequences for human health and welfare.
Nature Conservancy
We address threats to conservation involving climate change, fire, fresh water, forests, invasive species, and marine ecosystems.
Some of our special initiatives include:
- “Adopt-an-Acre”: Protect threatened habitats by adopting acres in critical locations around the world.
- Offset your Carbon Footprint: Climate change and forest experts designed and implemented this program which will produce measurable reductions in greenhouse gases.
- “Adopt-a-Coral-Reef”: Raises funds for important coral reef projects around the world that provides permanent protection and restoration of some of the last great places on Earth.
- “Plant a Billion Trees”: Help Reforestation. With every dollar, one tree is planted. Trees remove carbon dioxide from the environment which contributes to cleaner air.
Newsfeed Staff
World Environment Day
May 30, 2010
In honor of World Environment Day on June 5th, Ipsos i-Say will be highlighting two very worthy non profit organizations, David Suzuki Foundation and the Nature Conservancy, in our rewards catalogue for the entire month of June! This means that in addition to our regular rewards, you’ll also have the option of donating your points to these two environmental charities.
Starting in June, Ipsos i-Say will be featuring a different charity and cause every month. If you have a charity that is close to your heart, you can nominate them to be Ipsos i-Say’s featured charities. Send us an email with the name of this charity and why it’s so important to you. Together, we can all make a difference!
We’ve also added a new feature to our website – a point tracker that shows how many points have been donated to charities. Check for daily updates to see how i-Say members are making a difference!
Newsfeed Staff
Survey Results: What you cook best
May 27, 2010
I cook a mean breakfast. I mean, it’s really good. I’m also a vegetarian and sometimes even cook vegan meals (no meat or dairy) so I have to be really creative. One of my favorite breakfast meals to cook happens to be tofu scramble, a healthy dish made of tofu, peppers, spices and onion. The best part is it comes served with guacamole and tortilla chips. And yes, chips for breakfast can be healthy and delicious. Last week, we asked panel members what meal they cook best. Even though I prefer cooking breakfast, Dinner won by an incredible margin.
Take a look at the results.
Our US Panel Members
Our Canadian English Members
I guess I should spend a little more time practicing my entrees.
Newsfeed Staff
Ipsos i-Say awards a Honda Fit to the 2009 VIP Grand Prize Winner, Peggy Clayton, for taking online surveys.
April 28, 2010
On April 16, 2010 Ipsos i-Say reps hit the road to San Francisco, CA to present 2009 VIP Grand Prize winner, Peggy Clayton, with a 2010 Honda Fit. Clayton was one of over 112,000 North Americans eligible to win the new car. Clayton was shocked when she got the phone call informing her that she had won the car. After a challenging start to the year, this win couldn’t have come at a better time. Only a week before finding out that she was the winner, Clayton was diagnosed with Diabetes. She also suffers from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) and skin cancer. Nevertheless, Clayton maintains a positive attitude and outlook on life that is truly inspiring. “I love doing surveys because I feel like I’m helping companies improve products and I like making a difference”, says Clayton. If that weren’t enough, Clayton decided to share the good fortune with her son, Joseph, and gave him the car as a gift.
Online surveys present a great opportunity for people express their opinions and to earn rewards. With an average Ipsos i-Say survey taking between 5 to 20 minutes, the rewards quickly add up. Just ask Clayton, who was selected as the winner of Ipsos i-Say’s annual car giveaway. This is the third car that Ipsos i-Say has awarded as part of the VIP incentives program.
The draw was open to anyone in the United States and Canada who was a member of the Ipsos i-Say panel (www.i-say.com) and who answered the majority of surveys offered to them for at least two quarters during 2009. Ipsos i-Say incentives program provides many reasons to join: reward points, sweepstakes, and a VIP program. Ipsos i-Say is one of the largest online panels in North America.
Are you a Crazy Cat Lover?
April 26, 2010
Not that I’m judging you if you are, but many North Americans are perceived to be.
I couldn’t believe this article when I found it.
It seems there is a divide between the pet owners of the US.
Non-cat owners have let their opinions be heard, and the consensus is that if you are the owner of more than one cat – you are either lonely or crazy! Ummm, great picture to paint of your fellow countrymen and women, lol.
I can’t help but think of that woman from old Simpson’s episodes. I know you know who I’m talking about.
Of course, this isn’t necessarily the case. But there are some extremes.
Two or three cats may be considered acceptable, but what about over 100 cats?
That’s right. One Russian woman, who rescued her first cat 15 years ago, has built up her pet allowance to 130 (pause for shocked faces).
You can watch that video here.
As Bob Barker used to say at the end of every episode of Price is Right, “Spay and neuter your pets”
Til next time.
Newsfeed Staff
Here’s one for the pet lover in all of us.
March 28, 2010
If I could get the same treatment most American dog owners (have told us) give their pups, I would be the luckiest human alive.
I found this article in my searches that goes through all of the simple pleasures dogs have. The numbers behind how many owners indulge in pampering their pets and some other pretty interesting stats… well, I won’t ruin it all.
That’s for you to find out. I will hint at this though….
It may have something to do with doggie fashion items and how many of us may actually be conceding to this trend.
Read Full Article
You won't be disappointed.
Til next time!
67% of Americans are Overweight.. But only 30% admit it.
March 28, 2010
Let’s get right to it.
This issue may be sensitive to about 37% of U.S. citizens.
I had a really unhealthy late night snack this weekend (yes, it did include melted cheese) and couldn’t help but think of the documentary I watched recently, Food Inc.
Check out this trailer...
Whether or not this doc is fact, or fiction – I got a pretty clear message that I would like to know more about the food I’m scarfing down my gob.
I started to look through our Ipsos News Center website and came across this incredible article about how people perceive their weight. As the title of this post clearly states, there are a lot of Americans who just don’t think they are overweight.
Do me a favor. Read this article
It's pretty interesting. We have become less likely to see ourselves as overweight, but nearly 7 in 10 of us are in fact, a little on the heavy side. That includes 27% percent of us who are considered (you can read all about it) obese.
Oh. And you may want to go check out Food Inc. Healthy or not, it has some pretty shocking ideas.
I'm going to grab a burger...errr. salad. Sigh.