We got some great alumni feedback following our inaugural issue, and, of course, we're always open to more. In fact, we love hearing from you! Tell us what you want to read about and, chances are, we can find a Case Western Reserve University grad to offer his or her personal expertise and tips. After all, the whole idea behind Smart is to solicit great advice for alums, from alums, and to keep that conversation going.

Did you take up a new hobby this summer? Discover the key to perfect work-life balance? Figure out the secret to keeping little ones entertained on a long, family road trip? Let us know.

Your fellow alumni, and Smart editors, will thank you.

We also want to make sure you know about the lineup for Alumni Weekend 2011, October 13-16. In addition to the homecoming tailgate, the 6th Annual Stephanie Tubbs Jones Gospelfest and dozens of unique school and college events, alums can sign up for THINK Forums, a new series that features everything from a tour of The Milton and Tamar Maltz Performing Arts Center at The Temple-Tifereth Israel to an insider's view of the admissions process.

Other new events include the Baker-Nord Center for the Humanities' Shakespeare Film Festival and a special Great Lakes Theater Festival performance of Cabaret at the Hannah Theater. The weekend begins in style with BlueBash: A special kickoff to Alumni Weekend, a not-to-be-missed celebration of all things CWRU on Thursday, October 13. Visit cwru.edu/alumni/weekend to register.

Making the Most Out of Making a Difference

"I'd love to volunteer, but I just don't have the time." Sound familiar?
You're not the only one.

Risks and Rewards: How We Handle Life-Changing Decisions

Kimberly Shepherd (CWR '92) doesn't like being told what to do (according to her father, anyway). This year she decided to go into business for herself.

Listen Local: Discover New Music, No Matter Where You Live

Music advice from Emma Sleva (CWR '11), host of The Occasional Detour on Cleveland's WRUW-FM 91.1.

Try a Different Drink

You could crack open an ordinary can of beer at your next backyard cookout. But Mario Mazza (CWR '03) suggests a glass of wine instead.

Combat Stress in Minutes a Day

In the pool, she keeps her body parallel to the bottom and her head titled at 45 degrees. Amateur athlete Jessica Stultz (CWR '02) knows about proper positioning.

Five Great Reasons to Chill Out

A few good reasons to relax.

Dine on a Dime

It's easy to save money on groceries. Just eat every other day. Actually, there is a better way, one that doesn't involve living on rice and beans.

Bringing Home Baby

If you're a parent-to-be going back and forth between preparedness and paranoia, Anita Gaind, MD (CWR '94) knows how you feel.