Today's Number: 20 billion - Pieces of mail that the Postal Service expects to deliver between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, Pat Donahoe, chief operating officer, said.

        Today's Career Advice: To work the grapevine on the job, you first must learn where the vine's roots are located, advises the Work & Wealth section in the December edition of Essence. First, figure out which co-workers are privy to helpful information and then drop by their desks to chat with them from time to time. Go out to lunch with them and if you uncover relevant information, share it. Above all else, do not gossip. Negativity will always hurt you. And remember, being informed in advance can mean the difference between moving up the ladder or out the door.

        Today's Money Tip: If you don't decide what happens to your property after you die, someone else will decide for you — perhaps the government. In order to have control over your assets and who gets them, you must make your wishes known in writing.

        Today's Company: Aandre Jergens Co.

        SUDSY STORY: First known as The Jergens Soap Co., this Cincinnati enterprise was founded in 1882 by Andrew Jergens Sr. and Charles H. Geilfus. Its original product was coconut oil soap. Gradually, Jergens acquired related companies and expanded its line of personal-care products. Jergens Lotion became a household name in the 1920s and was further popularized by Walter Winchell, whose radio programs the company sponsored. In 1970, the company was purchased by American Brands.

        SKIN SPECIALISTS: Jergens' products fall into three categories: lotions and creams, body wash and cleansing bars, and hand wash products.

        A WORLD OF PRODUCTS: The Andrew Jergens Co. was bought by Kao Corp. of Japan in 1988. Kao stock trades on the Over-the-Counter market. Jergens' products are sold in 50 countries and territories.

        Send tips and questions to Bill Ferguson at bferguson@enquirer.com

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