Tires 101: What your tire's markings tell you

"Tires carry a wealth of information on their sidewalls. Unfortunately, it's all in code. Most of it is of no concern to many owners, but it can be valuable for those who want to know the seasons for which their tires are intended, those who plan to replace their tires, or new-car buyers who are given a choice of sizes and types."

For tips on deciphering the code, click here.

Save the Children’s SMS Texting Program Helps Pakistani Flood Survivors to Help Themselves

"The simple act of SMS text messaging has helped scores of people displaced by the floods in Pakistan after Save the Children implemented an innovative way to use the mobile phone technology in its relief work.

A hotline has been up and running since early August which allows people to phone in or text suggestions or complaints relating to Save the Children’s health clinics and distribution centres."

Click here for more on this texting strategy.

What Are Christians Known For?

"In the earliest days of Christianity, the Roman emperor Julian was contemptuous of Jesus's first followers. But he recognized that their generosity to the poor was making converts of many. 'Nothing has contributed to the progress of the superstition of the Christians as their charity to strangers...the impious Galileans provide not only for their own poor, but for ours as well,' he is quoted as saying."

Click here for more on this question.

World Vision emergency team covering two disasters in Indonesia in 24 hours

"World Vision's emergency response staff in Indonesia are currently dealing with two disasters in less than twenty-four hours: the volcano eruption at Mount Merapi in Java and Monday's 7.2 earthquake in West Sumatra."

Click here for more on World Vision's response to these two disasters.

She turns flour into gold

"Baker Joanne Chang spins pantry staples into rich desserts complete with cupcakes and 'crispy magic frosting.' Check out her video."

Click here for the story and video.

Western Springs family sees makeover as key to independence

"Like every other 12-year-old girl, Grace Ligon just wants to be independent.

However driven and determined, living with cerebral palsy means Grace faces physical obstacles to everyday tasks — and as a single mother, Kathy, too, has difficulties of her own."

Click here for more on this brave family.

Do the 'Thriller' dance

"Zombies and ‘80s-era Michael Jackson — what’s not to love?

Thrill The World is a worldwide, simultaneous recreation of Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance. The annual event has taken on added relevance since Jackson’s 2009 death, which still makes us very sad."

Click here for more on this social phenomenon turned fundraiser.