A pint of milk, and a couple of solar panels please

Sainsbury's customers can now top up their weekly grocery shop with one-off purchases such as Solar Panels, to help them generate their own energy at home.

Sainsbury's Energy, in partnership with British Gas, will offer customers access to new energy technologies and deals, information and advice with trained energy experts available in selected stores.

Sainsbury's chief executive, Justin King, said: "Our ambition is for Sainsbury's Energy to become the number one destination for customers looking for new energy technologies, energy efficiency measures and great energy deals, so we can help them to reduce costs, while also reducing carbon emissions."

Phil Bentley, Managing Director of British Gas, said: "We know people are worried about rising energy costs, but higher prices don't have to mean higher bills.  Energy efficiency and energy generation in the home are the keys to keeping bills down, but people need more help to take advantage of them. This is why British Gas is delighted to be back on the ‘high street' with Sainsbury's, making it easier for customers to get the products, information and advice they need."

The service is now available to customers in Sainsbury's stores across the UK, online and via Sainsbury's Energy call centre on freephone 0800 316 0 316.

Customers will have access to gas and electricity, deals on insulation, solar panels and home energy assessments.

Sainsbury's also plan an Energy roadshow, with a tour of Sainsbury's supermarkets up and down the country with a fully interactive energy display truck where customers can talk to experts and see new home energy generation technologies in action.

Would you be more inclined to adopt solar energy if it's available in your local supermarket? Let us know.

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Free Starbucks coffee, free glasses, Southwest $59 fares, and more!

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Reader tip: home health care site

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Grocery coupons for Ralphs, Safeway/Vons, Albertsons, Whole Foods, Publix, ShopRite, Fresh n Easy, Food 4 Less, Winn Dixie, Stop & Shop, Kroger, Wegmans, and Harris Teeter

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"Onshore wind is the future, and it works" - Chris Huhne

By Cathy Debenham of YouGen

Chris Huhne expressed his strong support for onshore wind at Tuesday's launch for the repowering of Good Energy's Delabole wind farm.

"I wish our fellow country people were more open-minded about onshore wind. It is the most competitive of renewable technologies, on a base with nuclear. And at anything over $100 a barrel for oil the strategy of low carbon means saving money [oil is currently at $104 a barrel]. It is the future of low cost electricity compared with the alternative of relying on oil.

Officially, not only is it the future, but it works."

This wasn't the only interesting thing the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change said. On the feed-in tariff review:

"We have not pulled the plug on large scale solar; we are looking at the levels of subsidy again. We are determined that renewable energy grows in a steady and sustainable way...
Anyone who wants to do solar PV at scale will be annoyed, and I quite understand that. The key point is that if people want to do solar PV at scale on the same subsidies which were designed for small solar, we need to be careful as the comparison will not be with small solar, but with onshore wind. In that comparison onshore wind looks much more economic.

"I’m technology agnostic - I don’t want to play god with one technology over another. My main interest is to make sure the British consumer of electricity wherever he or she may be, is going to get secure, clean, green electricity, and that we get off the oil price hook, and that they can get it for generations to come. That means I’ve got to look out for costs. I am not in the business for writing blank cheques to anybody, because this is real money that’s got to come out of consumers' pockets, it’s got to come out of taxpayers' pockets.

"What I do want to see is the whole industry develop in a sustainable manner and not go through boom and bust, and I can tell you that if we’d not had a review of large scale solar, we’d have had a massive boom and bust, and in a year’s time you’d have had no business left at all."

On community schemes:

"I am very much in favour of community schemes – I see that as part of the way forward. The big conundrum for onshore wind is that this is the cheapest, most economical, most competitive form of renewable energy, yet it is the one that often runs up against the most resistance in local communities. That’s because I think we’re not doing enough to get buy-in, and getting people to understand that they’ve got a real benefit from wind schemes."

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Can energy providers convince us the profits are fair?

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The kids are alright

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Does Solar Power Work?

Solar power is a new concept and there will always be apprehensions before adopting it. However, if you can understand the basics of how does solar power work, you’ll make an educated decision on which solution works to solar power your house. The building block of solar energy is the photo voltaic cell or PV. There has been a lot of research and development around PV over the last ten odd years, primarily due to a push from the government. Today you have many products in the market and picking one can be really tough. This is where understanding about solar energy is useful.

The sun as we see it today, is one of the largest nuclear reactors known to man. The reactions within the sun continue to produce energy in the form of light. Light consists of photons which are characterised by two factors: wavelength and frequency. The wavelength of a photon is the distance between two photons in the same phase of motion and the frequency is the rate at which the photons change their phases.

Wavelength or frequency of the light is important to understand as it determines the color of the light. The sun tends to radiate a lot more energy in what is known as the infra-red range as compared to the visible light range. This implies that if you want to maximise the efficiency of your solar equipment it must operate at the infra-red range. Another factor is in this case of light absorption. The sunlight is basically white, and any white object reflects all the light that falls on it. Along the same lines a black object is one that is absorbing all the light that falls on it. It is clear that you want something that is closer to black for your solar equipment.

The total energy radiated by the sun can satisfy our growing energy demands many times over. In fact, if we can generate 6 kWh of power from 5 square meters of PV cells, that energy is sufficient to power our whole house with all the appliances for that day. Just imagine the sheer quantity of energy we have been neglecting for centuries. Tapping the solar energy is basically, facilitating a photonic reaction between the sunlight and the PV to convert the light energy into electric energy that can be used to power our home. Of course, if you do not have the optimum solar energy absorption you will end up with an inefficient system. Learn more about solar power benefits at the Home Solar Power Guide.

There are some materials that are transparent enough to pass radiation through them but at the same time are good insulators not allowing the heat to escape. These are very important in building solar power equipment. A good choice for such functions is regular glass with iron silicon impregnations. This can pass a wide range of light wavelengths and also block the heat. Here it is useful to understand the concept of a filter. A filter in light terminology is a device that allows certain wavelengths to pass, but reflects the others. A very good example of filter is our sunglasses. We get sunglasses that reflect UV rays and pass visible light. Similarly coatings on windows to block bright light are another example. Filters play an important role in glazing for solar water heaters. The aim is to maximise the energy collection from the sun’s rays which happens to be in the infra-red range the filters used for glazing are designed to pass these wavelengths and filter the less productive colors.

So there are three characteristics of any material: filtering, absorbing and reflecting. Even the windows made from glass that are supposed to pass white light do not do so completely; they actually pass just 85% of the light and rest is lost or filtered. Another common filter is our atmosphere. During dawn and dusk the sun’s rays travel further in the atmosphere and hence they are not that strong or bright. At noon, with sun directly overhead, the light travels perpendicular to the atmosphere so it traverses shorter distances this means it gets filtered less and hence is more powerful. To find more information like this about solar power visit the Home Solar Power Guide.

The same idea holds true for summers and winters as well. During summer more of the sun’s light reaches the earth surface as compared to winters. As a result, more sunlight is reflected and absorbed in summer. Absorption of photons releases energy in the form of heat and this heat warms the air. This why summers are hotter and winters are cooler. In fact, heat is nothing but a function of motion. When a surface absorbs energy its molecules start to vibrate and this generates heat. Thus when solar energy strikes the surface it causes the molecules to vibrate releasing heat energy. These are some of the basic aspects of solar energy that you must be aware of. Understanding these concepts will aid you in understanding how solar power equipment works.

Looking to find the best deal on solar power kits.

Posted in Solar Energy.

Tagged with alternative energy, energy independance, environment, green technology, home improvement, Renewable Energy, Solar Energy, solar panels, solar power, sustainable energy.

By Richie Vee – February 22, 2011

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How to choose a real estate agent

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Why use Wind Turbine Power

Wind turbines for the home are currently becoming very popular. The current surge in hardware purchases is mainly the result of rising oil prices which always trigger an increase in energy costs.

Imagine being able to generate your home’s energy out of a resource that’s free to use, and practically everlasting. It can be quite impressive to see how this could improve your monthly energy spending. Luckily, today there is an affordable way to do so.

Prior to making any investments, the homeowners need to be sure about two aspects which are related to the turbines, the efficiency and durability. In order to clarify these things, any homeowner should read the specifications of these devices. Based on them, he or she can better decide which turbine is appropriate for the home use. Different categories require various wind speeds. The wind turbines that are placed in strong winds can deliver the best results. They ensure a maximum output so you can run all your appliances without encountering any issues.

When people first hear that they can use natural power in their house they might be led to think that it is a joke. They have visions of extremely large and powerful generators that are used in the open fields and prairie land. This is not the only way you can use wind power though, and the other options should be investigated.

Wind turbines for home use must be installed high enough for wind to blow it, otherwise the walls and neighborhood roofs may affect its functionality. The other type of turbine is the horizontal axis (HAWT). This is the most common turbine that is seen in wind mills. This is the one with blades which serve as the propeller. This one needs to face the direction of the wind to function best.

You can find turbines in an array of makes and sizes. Thus, you’ll need to do a search for one that’s right for your site and the energy amount you need. Be sure to check out local building codes, height requirements, noise limitations and where prevailing winds tend to come from. All of these are important when you’re trying to build wind turbines.

Posted in Solar Energy.

Tagged with electricity, home, information, online, power, solar, Solar Energy, turbines, website, wind.

By Edify G Horsittel – February 24, 2011

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Soaring Fuel Costs And Making Bio-Diesel On Your Own.

A few weeks ago John Hofmeister, the former director of Shell, now the chief executive of a non-profit group known as Citizens for Affordable Energy, proclaimed he expects U.S. gas prices to hit $5.00 a gallon by November 2012 mostly because of much higher demand for petrol worldwide specifically in nations like China.

In fact AutoNation CEO Mike Jackson has spoken out and calls it the “freak out point.” It is the price of a gallon of fuel when customers will freak out and make a informed decision to change their driving habits, the kind of vehicle or truck they will purchase, or perhaps decide not to purchase at all.

When gas prices spiked in 2008, folks started freaking out when gas reached $4.00 a gallon. It eventually topped off at $4.11 in July of that summer.

This time around, Jackson thinks the panic point is higher, nearer to $4.50 or 5.00 a gallon.

Now you ask , what are you going to do to prepare for this non-negotiable hike in gasoline prices we all must contend with?

Making biodiesel at home has been a well-known alternative for a lot of people all over the world. Biodiesel kits enable you use from home, and are safe and efficient, with 5 hours of time you could make 45 gallons of fuel for your own vehicles from home.

What if gas costs do spike to $5.00 a gallon, are you ready to improve your vehicles to diesel power to save money? At the time of this article writing you may get a 1987 Mercedes 300D Turbo Diesel, automatic, cold a/c, new battery, new waterpump, 210 miles, well kept, clean, mechanically sound, for only $1600.00.

Is the cost of a diesel-powered vehicle and a biodiesel kit worth it to have energy independence for you and your family? Sure it is! fuel prices are expected to only go up within the next 24 months never to return to the $3.00 dollars a gallon we currently enjoy.

Books like the encyclopedia of making bio-diesel at Home will help you thoroughly comprehend the process of making biodiesel, even If you have never made biodiesel before, even If you do not know the distinction between a biodiesel processor from a food processor books like this will show you how to get started.

Making biodiesel at home is an straightforward, proven solution that’s so easy, anybody can do it and start saving money right now while guarding against the escalating cost of gas.

For more details about Biodiesel Download “FREE” biodiesel books. Or view the Making Biodiesel at Home books for yourself.. This article, Soaring Fuel Costs And Making Bio-Diesel On Your Own. is available for free reprint.

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How You Can Start a Simple Solar Power Project and Start Saving Money Now

When it comes to adopting solar energy, it is not a simple straight forward thing, especially since there are many questions. The best thing to do is to start small and grow your solar power project as you get more comfortable with it. A simple project could be a portable solar shower. This is a hot water shower that can be used at any outdoor location: at camp sites as well as on boats. All you need is a special five gallon plastic bag which can be filled with water and exposed to the sun. The front or top portion of the bag is clear to allow the sunlight to pass while the other end is dark to absorb maximum energy. You can enjoy a good hot water shower almost anywhere; alternately you can use that water for cleaning purposes too.

Adding sunscreens is an example of another simple solar project – the difference is that you are not tapping into the sunlight here, just reflecting it back. The sunscreens are great to reflect the sun’s rays away from your home and at the same time they are also great insulators. In summer when you coat your windows with these screens, you will see a big reduction in disturbingly bright light and also in the heat inside the house. Typically, it is the windows that face south, so coating them with sunscreen is the ideal solution. Visit Richie Vee’s site for more inexpensive solar power project tips like these.

Of course, come winter, you’d want to get rid of the sunscreen – after all you want your house to be as warm as possible. The best solution is to have your sunscreens mounted on frames that can be easily replaced with clear windows in the winter time. Alternately, you can use an electric window which flips the sunscreen on or off as per your needs. Such systems can actually last three years on an average. So it is pretty good investment.

Typically, the sun screens are available in rolls that are 8 feet wide. So you can place them on any window 8 feet long or smaller. Since they are in rolls, you can adjust the length as per your needs. If you are installing removable sunscreens, just get yourself some tacks, a hammer, a box cutter and a standard stapler. Besides these, you can also get sunscreen frames from the store directly. They are available in a wide range of colors. You can also get them with the screens or without the screens. Before you invest a lot into these screens, you can try out the solution at home using some cheap sunscreen products. Just install them on your windows and experience the change. If you like them, you’ll feel more confident about adding the sunscreen to your house. If you’re looking for more solar power project tips like these visit Richie Vee’s site.

Security lights are another great solution of small scale solar power projects. These kits include a PV cell, a battery, a spot light and a sensor. The PV cell needs to be placed in the sunlight to capture the energy. However, the rest of the parts can be placed anywhere you like. Depending on how you want to use the motion detector spotlight, you can place them in different locations. Here are some ideas:

a) The front porch overlooking the driveway is a great spot for this light. With the sensor you can ensure that the light turns on every time someone walks on to the driveway.

b) Garage or personal work sheds are other places where you can have this unit setup. As soon as you walk into the garage, the light turns on to aid you in working or look around.

c) Basements are another location where you would appreciate motion triggered lighting system. As soon as you step on the stairs, the lights in the basement can turn on.

d) Light is also great inside the gazebo with a dining table.

e) In fact, this can be used in any remote location in your home where there is not enough light or limited brightness. The sensor can be programmed to shutoff the light at whatever time you prefer.

Finally, the solar lighting tubes are another mini solar power project. Of course this solution is not as simple as the previous ones and involves some complexity. What you have in this is a unit on the roof that captures the sunlight and a silver tube that directs the light into a diffuser. The diffuser then reflects the light through tubes that can light up the entire room.

This solution is quite complex for an in-house project, but it can be very satisfying when completed. Darker family rooms are great place to have this solution implemented.

Want to find out more about solar power then visit Richie Vee’s site on how to choose the best solar power for your needs.

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Emergency help! How to switch on electricity?

Emergency help! How to switch on electricity?
Today is a bank holiday so everything is closed (including the electricity company and my landlord’s office). I just moved into my new appartment and I have no gas and no electricity. I need urgent help because I am on a deadline and have important work to do on my computer.

I have signed up for electricity and gas with the company already so normally it should already work. My accounts are up to date.

I found both the gas control box and the electricity fuse box and I can’t switch on any of them!! I mostly need electricity right now.

SO I tried switching on the switches in the electric fuse box, including the bigger one (for overall control). The lights are not working, neither are the electric plugs.

Since I have already signed up for gas and electricity, I suppose that there’s a problem with the fusebox. The problem is that I can’t remove the fuses from the box to see if they are the problem. They’re like stuck inside the fusebox. Is there a problem with wiring?

Answer by Spaghetti MY
call the emergency line and get creative with an excuse

Tags: electricity, emergency, help, switch

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Coupons for Target, CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and Staples

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Carbondale NeighborWorks Week, Sponsored by the Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Lackawanna County

We live in a world where we’re constantly being bombarded with negative news. We hear about natural disasters, man-made disasters, financial crises, deadly diseases, crimes, fatal accidents, and violence on a daily basis. Sometimes it’s hard to remember that there are people working daily to make the world a better place for all of us to live in.

However, at least 60 residents in Carbondale, Pennsylvania got reminded of this niceness during the past week. On June 28th, more than 400 adult and teenaged volunteers converged on Carbondale to carry out various small home repairs and improvement projects for the residents. All the work was done cost-free to the homeowners.

The volunteers and homeowners were taking part in the Carbondale NeighborWorks Week, which was sponsored by the Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) of Lackawanna County. Believe it or not, the majority of volunteers came in from out of state just to help the Carbondale residents. The volunteers came from various areas of the northeastern United States. They provided services to residents who were elderly, living on low-incomes, or who were disabled. The projects included weatherization, painting, porch/deck installation or repair, and wheelchair ramp construction, as well as other minor home repairs.

Carbondale NeighborWorks Week came about due to the NHS’s desire to directly connect homeowners who needed help with those who wanted to provide help. They wanted to do a large scale service project that would have an immediate positive impact, and knew that Carbondale had an older housing stock that needed attention. The recipient homeowners were chosen after a review of the applications they submitted to NHS earlier in the year.

According to NHS executive director Jesse Ergott, NHS is a private, non-profit organization that has been around for about 30 years. NHS helps people to buy their first home, finance major home repairs, and to work with their lender in order to avoid foreclosure. They hope doing so will strengthen the financial stability of the families involved, thus improving the community at large.

Since the Group WorkCamps Foundation (GWF) was set up specifically with this type of volunteer work in mind, NHS asked GWF to join in carrying out the large scale service project. Once GWF agreed to provide volunteers, NHS approached the City of Carbondale with the idea. The NHS expected to spend at least $25,000 on construction materials alone. NHS estimated the volunteer labor was worth about $80,000.

GWF is also a non-profit organization that has been around for over 30 years. It was founded in Loveland, Colorado, after a major flood hit the area in 1977. The faith-based organization provides volunteers for various community sponsored projects on an international level. So far, GWF has organized over a quarter of a million volunteers and have provided about 6 million hours of volunteer services. They have completed over 210,000 projects in Canada, Central America, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, as well as in various areas of the United States.

Many of GWF’s young volunteers actually pay to participate in a GWF youth summer camp that puts them to work in a community project. They claim the work is very rewarding and a great way to spend a summer vacation. GWF will be hosting 64 more similar community work camps this summer. The camps will be located ranging from Wisconsin to Carbondale. An estimated 30,000 youth and adult volunteers are expected to participate in these group workcamp projects.

The local communities that are being helped are usually responsible for hosting the GWF volunteers. Usually this is done by providing a local school’s gymnasium, cafeteria, and classrooms for a lockdown styled camp out. After the volunteers have spent all day working on a community project, they spend the evening preparing and serving meals to each other, and worshiping together. They also participate in fun events during the evening hours, such as listening to musical concerts or watching drama or comedy performances, and making friends with other volunteers. The volunteers often participate in sports too.

NHS also invited local residents to participate in the Carbondale NeighborWorks Week events. Anyone who wanted to volunteer was assigned to one of the many crews, regardless of their construction skill levels. Each crew was assigned to work on one of the 60 homes, and the local volunteers worked right along with the GWF volunteers. The citizens of Carbondale were also invited to show up at Memorial Park on Monday and Tuesday to welcome and thank the out-of-town visitors.

If you’re interested in bringing a Workcamp to your community, you can contact GWF by phoning toll free 1-800-385-4545, or visit their web site for more information. You’ll need to do a few things when cosponsoring a Workcamp, but it’s well-worth the effort. GWF staff members will gladly assist you with the entire process, from beginning to end.

References:

Group Workcamps Foundation
Neighborhood Housing Services of Lackawanna, PA
The Times Tribune

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Electricity Billing?

Electricity Billing?
Below is a quote from an electricity supplier:

“If you use an one-tarrif-type, you can have prices for kWh from $ 0.15-$ 0.19 per kwh.
If you have a two-tarrif-type your prices for high tarrif can be from $ 0.21 /kWh to $ 0.16 /kWh with all taxes for low tarrif can be from $ 0.13 /kWh to $ 0.11 /kWh with all taxes.”

Does anyone here understand this statement? I am a typical domestic user. Which tarrif applies for me? And how am I gonna be charged?

Answer by RideArt
The two tarrif system uses a high usage system. The power company determines when their highest load period is and charges more per KWH.

When they experiance a low usage period they typically charge a lower rate.

Your power company can only produce so much electricity, Total KW Output. When they can not meet the demand of their customers, they must buy electricity from some other power company. That is when you pay the higher rate.

These numbers are all calculated over a period of several years to come up with an average.

So you should have been told, if not find out, when the higher rate period is and change your life style. Dry clothes, cook dinner, take baths and use your high consumption items during the low period.

Work at it a little and you’ll find ways to lower your electric bill.

I put a timer on the water heater and my children found who took a long bath used all the hot water and everyone else had to use luke warm or cold water. It works, we lowered our bill by several precentage points.

Good luck

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Free Dish Network – Is It for Everyone?

Consumers show varied responses to the term “free”, especially in connection with something they really want to own inside their home. While free makes a consumer wary, it also raises his curiosity. If you hear about free satellite dish, you often think of offerings by television stations. This is an accurate description, but you still need to learn more about what a free satellite dish network is all about.

Technology is truly amazing, and now in this digital age, you don’t have to look far to get quality perks from innovations. If you remember the times when you wished your television would provide more for your viewing pleasure, you will love the idea of getting more quality media for a fraction of the cost you used to pay for lousy service. Say goodbye to the time when signals would break and there would be too many disturbances on your TV. With the advent of satellite TV, all that is just something that your parents had to deal with .

High definition television or HDTV is a service given to customers by satellite television providers to create a movie theater-quality TV viewing experience. HDTV is every family’s dream, and this is possible through an FTA system. Do you know what FTA is? FTA stands for free to air television broadcasting. HDTV providers use FTA receivers to send signals for digital television and radio. With FTA technology and HDTV capability in your system, you can watch hundreds of channels on your TV for free. FTA television channels are broadcasted using unencrypted VHF or UHF bands. However, in some places you will be charged a small fee for some of the channels or for using FTA satellite services.

If you’re keen on “free”, there is a way to get the HDTV experience that you want. Over the past five years, television networks have been offering several free alternatives for customers who apply to their satellite dish network. As a part of promotions, television networks are giving away free satellite tv systems and installation to new customers. Some television networks have turned this service into something more than a promotion, most consumers are now receiving free satellite television service as a permanent fixture in exchange for a yearly or monthly fee.

The chief benefits of going for an offer that provides you with a free dish satellite system for your television is that you don’t have to assemble your own system to receive HDTV broadcasts. Additionally, these television networks are also offering free lifetime upgrades to their receivers for DVR and HDTV . It’s a great deal.

There is usually a contract that will prevent customers from switching to other networks as soon as the free satellite dish is installed. Because a television network is giving you quite a bit of free service and equipment, they want to make sure you’ll remain a paying customer until they’ve made their money back.

Visit the following website for more information today:
Free Dish Network
Free Satellite Dish System

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Taking a Staycation in Your Luxruious Backyard Resort

People are currently discovering staycations. Staycations are similar to the old-fashioned poor man’s style of vacationing. Only now, instead of being the poor man’s style, it’s the in-crowd’s style of trendy vacationing. There are a few differences between the old and new trends though, besides the new name. For instance, the new trend involves converting backyards into luxurious staycation resorts. The new trend also involves staying home by choice rather than through necessity.

There have always been several reasons why people stayed home during their vacations otherwise than simply being poor. Many more have been added to the list in recent years. Some of the past common reasons for staycations were conflicting work schedules, high fuel prices, lack of affordable transportation for large families, and lack of vacation funding. More modern reasons include these past reasons with the addition of conflicting social engagements, such as the children’s involvement with local summer programs and sporting activities.

The fear of terrorist activities and the hassles of flying have also been added to the growing list of reasons why staycations are chosen. The recession has had a major affect on vacations, as well. Not only because the recession affects whether or not a person can finance a vacation, but also because it has forced many resorts to close due to bankruptcy. The most recently added reasons have been pollution, natural disasters, and inclement weather ruining favorite vacation spots.

The recession also makes staycations a wiser choice because it involves investing in home and backyard improvements. The whole idea behind staycations is to adopt a vacation theme, and then convert an area of your backyard or home into a resort that matches the theme. These improvements help to create the vacation atmosphere, while increasing the value of the property. The best part is that you can enjoy the vacation repeatedly any time you choose throughout the year, since you own the resort. Moreover, you can adapt the staycation resort to host a wide variety of themed vacations and social events simply by altering a few elements, such as patio furniture styles and plants.

Numerous chambers of commerce and visitors bureaus are also encouraging people to stay home for vacations, hoping to keep the spent vacation funds circulating within the community. They suggest using the time for taking day trips to local state and city parks, museums, and other local attractions. The tourism agencies also recommend immersing yourself and your family in the local cultural activities and special events occurring in the area.

Many national store chains are encouraging people to use staycations too, hoping to make a profit by selling the materials for the conversion processes. Wal-Mart and Target push patio furnishings and outdoor activity equipment, while home improvement stores sell kits, materials, and tools for do-it-yourself staycation projects. Lowe’s and Home Depot will even help you choose a staycation theme. Then they will sell you the kits or materials and project blueprints you need for converting your backyard or home into that staycation resort.

Lowe’s offers a kit for creating a Caribbean Island retreat, complete with hammocks, tiki hut, misting fans, tiki torches, and bar. They also offer two other themed kits, which are named Call to All Campers and Garden Oasis. The Call to All Campers theme features an easy to build sundeck, an infrared grill, and a fire pit, while the Garden Oasis kit features a canopy, outdoor shower, pergola, and bamboo. Lowe’s also suggests suitable meals and provides some recipes to fit the various themes.

Home Depot provides kits and plans for such projects as outdoor theaters, games, and other outdoor activities. This emphasizes some of the primary elements of staycations, such as spending quality family time, and remembering to act as if you’re in a faraway vacation resort, away from home. When you’re planning your staycation, be sure to plan theme related meals, entertainment, and other tourist activities. Make certain to include time and activities for self-nurturing as well.

Don’t let anything distract you from enjoying your family time during the staycation. If you set the time for certain activities, use that time for the set purpose, or for some impulsive alternative relaxation activity. Don’t take or make business calls or do any other type of work, such as house repairs or routine household errands during the hours set aside for vacation time.

Moreover, don’t stick to your daily routine schedules. Stock up on whatever groceries and supplies you’ll need ahead of time, so you won’t have to do routine shopping while vacationing. Eat meals at more random times, stay up later, and sleep in later. If you start thinking about what work needs to be done, then it’s time to go for a fun outing, visit somewhere you’ve never been to, or do something you’ve never done before.

References:

Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden
MassLive.com
MediaPost News

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Is your workplace doing all it can to be green?

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Motorists want to be greener, reveals survey

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National Compensation Fund for U.S. Bank Foreclosure Fraud Victims Is Currently Undergoing Negotiations

Negotiations are currently underway in regards to a national compensation fund for bank foreclosure victims. The negotiations are taking place between all 50 of the state attorney generals, bank regulators, and several of the country’s biggest lenders.  These lenders include J.P. Morgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citigroup, and Ally Financial (formerly known as GMAC Mortgage).

The fund is supposed to compensate homeowners who may have been illegally foreclosed upon by banks and other lenders.   This solution is also designed to help the lenders to avoid lengthy and costly court cases.  Additionally, it’s supposed to help stabilize the housing industry by removing the current foreclosure freeze.  Moreover, it’s supposed to help clear up the congestion of court cases clogging the judicial system in all 50 states and downscale any future lawsuits involving foreclosure fraud.  The current judicial system isn't set up to properly adjudicate the massive amount of foreclosures that are occurring nationwide.

Details still need to be worked out

The state officials and mortgage lending industry representatives agree that a financial remedy is essential to preventing further homeowner turmoil.  However, it may take  several months to reach an agreement and work out all the details.  Each side has a different viewpoint as to how the fund should be administered, who should benefit from it, and what proof they’ll need.  The two sides also have differing views as to how much each lender should contribute to the fund and what size the fund should be.   Moreover, they have varying ideas of how much time should be allowed for filing claims and the payment of claims.

Both sides want to end the housing crisis as soon as possible.  Both sides also want to see improvements made to the foreclosure and mortgage servicing processes.   However, this also leads to more unresolved issues.  For instance, reduction of principle for homeowners who are now “under water” is one of the unresolved issues.  Additionally, many officials would like to see bankruptcy judges be permitted to order loan modifications.  Basically, the main differences arise from the state officials wanting the lenders to reform their loan and foreclosure processes to be more fair to homeowners, while the banks want the legal end of the processes to be modified in order to expedite foreclosures.  Expediting the legal process of foreclosure could cover up vast amounts of fraudulent and illegal banking activities, as well as make it even easier for banks to foreclose on property they may not even own a lien to.

Numerous state officials think these types of issues should be addressed by the fund along with several other mortgage fraud issues that have led to the massive amount of foreclosures. Another unresolved issue is how all the foreclosure cases that involve sloppy or fraudulent paperwork should be dealt with on a legal basis.  Yet another unresolved issue is how the loan modification process will work in conjunction with foreclosure processing.   Currently, many lenders initiate both procedures simultaneously, rather than waiting to see if a loan modification will make foreclosing unnecessary.  Moreover, the state officials want lenders to address the issue of servicing fees during the loan modification process.

Why big banks are agreeing to create a compensation fund

One of the major reasons big banks are working to create a compensation fund is that they hope this will deter major lawsuits from homeowners.   Following foreclosure investigations in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., the big banks have determined it would be less costly and much quicker to just create a fund like BP did for the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.   That way, they can eliminate lots of time and court costs, without actually admitting to any guilt of fraudulent crimes.   It has been discovered that many of the foreclosures in the past few years have been conducted in an illegal manner, using fraudulent documentation, robo-signers, and illegal foreclosure procedures.

Due to the Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems (MERS) and mortgage securitization, about 80% of all existing homes may have murky titles, without the homeowners' knowledge. MERS doesn’t maintain any physical paperwork, which provides the necessary supporting proof of title ownership.   Also, due to the mortgage securitization practices, the loan note is often transferred without the accompanying title, so more than one lien holder can be involved.  One top Bank of America executive acknowledged that it would have to replace at least 102,000 affidavits used to file pending foreclosure cases due to not having the original documentation needed to provide proof of their lien rights.

Banks and bank regulators are also facing major criticism and investigation by the Senate Banking Committee. At the foreclosure crisis hearing, Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd (D-CT), stated the current widespread banking practices were threatening all homeowners.  However, banks have been avidly attempting to downplay the paperwork mess, claiming they have been “materially accurate” even if not properly filed or supported with original paperwork.  The lenders want Americans to think these thousands of illegal foreclosures were just the result of mere clerical errors in routine paperwork rather than intentional criminal acts of fraud.

The lenders have also been working with their investors to cope with having to repurchase the bad loans.  The last thing the banks need is to be fighting lawsuits from homeowners and investors simultaneously.  Many of the bank executives could also be facing criminal charges of fraud.   Moreover, most of the banks and other mortgage lenders could go completely bankrupt if they lost the lawsuits filed by both homeowners and investors, as well as had to repurchase the fraudulent loans.

Will the fund be adequate to soothe American outrage?

Will this new buyoff fund be enough to soothe the American outrage at Wall Street’s flippant attitude towards the average citizen?   Will our politicians and judicial system let big financial institutions get off with just a token payment of atonement and a slap on the hand for outright defrauding and harming the general American public for the past few decades? They probably will, in the hopes of saving the housing industry and stabilizing our country’s economic situation.   These state officials actually think they’re going to force the Wall Street financial giants into changing their harmful, illegal behavior by creating this fund.

However, all the banks representatives have already stated the banks would continue with the 900,000+ foreclosures already filed this year, and would resume initiating more as soon as this mess has been put behind them.  Even after 18 months of the federal government trying to get banks to change their loan modification and foreclosures procedures, the lenders continue to use the same dysfunctional processes.  These lenders knowingly harm and defraud the American public for self-serving purposes, yet have no intention of changing their actions.   Why should they, if they can continue to profit more by harming the American citizens rather than contributing to their well-being?  With the creation of this fund, it would become up to the homeowners to provide proof of whom does or doesn't own the right to take their home away from them.   The lenders, who can’t prove they own that right, will get out of paying anything for fraudulent foreclosure practices, since the homeowners most likely won’t be able to prove ownership/lien rights either.

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Just Wondering what are the electricity suppliers in western NY?

what are the electricity suppliers in western NY?

Answer by Anand
Here is a list of all energy suppliers (through the NY state government site) : http://snipr.com/as1gh.

You can put in the service area you are interested in and get the suppliers.

Tags: electricity, just, suppliers, western, what, Wondering

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Punishing the 401K

There might possibly be a sense of panic and anxiety that pieces in if you notice your credit cards begin in order to spiral out of control. When you’re fairly new fot it sense associated with being cornered by credit history, you may decide on a following mortgage. But then that the credit card bills continue growing and mature, as these are designed to do, you abruptly realize you have put your private home on the actual line plus it might right now be in danger if anyone default about those expenditures.

This is usually when in which mountain with debt will start to knock on the door of one’s last left over resources provide to neglect and you will need to make a variety of important options. And you are whether it could be a wise decision to take advantage your pension money or perhaps borrow on your 401K to get enough money provide to bring down your personal debt levels. So choosing whether this is an excellent idea can be a huge play because in the event you win, you can actually eliminate personal debt entirely. But when you lose, there moves your protection for the senior several years and maybe the small nest ovum you needed to pass along for the kids for inheritance.

Hitting that 401K to repay your personal credit card debt is an undesirable idea for several reasons. Essentially the most obvious reason is always that your pensionable money Auto Blog Syndicate is usually tax deferred so once you put the idea into in which account, people didn’t spend any fees on it. You don’t should pay taxes with it until finally you get out. In addition, the dollars is designed to stay around reserve right up until you reach retirement age so in a bundle of cases, for it out early, the good news is big penalty you have to pay.

So immediately if you cash released your old age funds to pay down or settle your personal credit card debt, you are losing big money to individuals penalties and also taxes. You should calculate just how much that penalty will likely be compared towards the interest you could possibly save due to the fact it’s a big pay down just so that those finances.

The prevailing logic of hitting your 401k is in theory you will lay aside more money from your interest than believe make from your investment. But there’s some sturdy logic for leaving these retirement finances right in which hey tend to be. For something, debt arrive and proceed but pensionable funds usually tend to going away without coming returning. Once people cash available those old age funds Auto Cash Hijack plus give the money over to credit debt, your retirement is gone. But if you find solutions to care for that unsecured debt and leave your retirement alone, it’s there to suit your needs and you’ve got that good sense of ownership that the debt has not taken from you.

One possible alterative is usually to borrow next to your 401K and put it to use as security. Now in this case you usually are still simply just swapping away debt to get debt. But anchored debt is sometimes easier to acquire a favorable interest rate and you can cap it hence the rate doesn’t float around like credit card debt. So you can find some rational for planning that route. But if which is an solution, you are generally still putting a very important part of one’s financial foreseeable future Rapid Sales Formula to the line so tread cautiously.

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Amazing Ideas On Working With Real Customer Service Specialists

Customer service is an absolutely essential aspect of almost every business. When customers aren’t satisfied, they go elsewhere. For business owners that don’t have the time to provide proper customer service, they can hire a virtual assistant with the skills to do the job.

What is customer service? It can be as simple as answering an email from a customer in a timely fashion. Sometimes it can involve composing a frequently answered questions page on the website. To a customer, having their needs met is the definition of good customer service.

When a business gains new clients through marketing and advertising, it’s only half of the battle. They may have fifty, one-time-only customers who spend $100 each on the site. This represents $5000 worth of business.

If the business has poor customer service skills, then clients may be driven away and the $5000 would seem like very little in the long run. It is better to consider that same 50 customers spending $50 each time they come to the site, as they have been inspired to do so through fantastic customer service. In this case, the business makes $2500 for each time that these 50 customers come along. A satisfied customer is the best marketing tool a business can have.

Because the customer has the power to make or break a business, treating them like they are important (which they are) is a crucial step in the business plan. When dealing with customer issues, a business will use answering services, automated phone messages and e-mail systems, together with instant messaging services. Each one of these areas needs somebody to effectively manage it to be crucially successful. Don’t take the risk, as “on point” virtual assistants can make all the difference in your long-term goals.

Customer Service – Expert Virtual Assistant Tasks

If you find that sales are dropping off because customer service is not up to par, seek help. Most virtual assistants are highly trained in specialised communication skills. These skills not only benefit you in finding clients, but in doing your job on a daily basis as well.

A virtual assistance customer expert will help the client to solve the business’ customer problems. A VA’s work for them will be done with their customers and reported back to them. Part of their job is:

• Addressing customer complaints (calls, emails, IM).
• Handling product issues between client and their customers.
• Answering customer questions.
• Distributing e-mails, catalogues and newsletters to customers that subscribe.

How broad the required services need to be really depends on what the business is in need of. Clients should give the VA the authority to give customer refunds, exchanges and other solutions depending on what situation arises. This requires that the VA has access to customer accounts databases and has the privileges to update them.

A lack of knowledge of the product or the company can lead to much dissatisfaction when outsourcing customer service. A virtual assistant specialising in customer service will become familiar with the company and their products as a common practice, so they can do their job to an excellent standard. If the VA has worked in the customer service arena before, they are at a most distinct advantage.

A virtual assistant brings skill in communication to the table when dealing with customer service issues. Their work has the potential to create life-long, extremely profitable customers, especially through website development strategies.

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Are electric motorcycles going to come down in price this year?

Are electric motorcycles going to come down in price this year?
I see them online and in mags and they are around 12k for a good one. This is so much compared to gas ones with the equivalent power. I know the tech costs a bit more, but they are never going to take off if they can’t bring down the price. Any ideas on if this might happen?

Answer by Nata T
no, they will get more expensive because of supply and demand. the cheaper ones coming out will lack good motors, batteries and warrenties.

Tags: Are, come, down, Electric, going, motorcycles, price, this, year

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I need to know what can i do to improve on this Formal Letter?

what can i do to improve on this Formal Letter?
Dear Mr. Brown,

I would like to take this time to tell you about a problem that has had seemingly been unnoticed in the past few years. This problem is Poverty, I do not think a country with a great amount of wealth should have people begging for money and living on the streets. This may be of little interest to you, but I believe that you should take the time to think about this concern.

I have always been a great admirer of your ongoing work, but a problem that keeps nagging me is the plight of the poor in London. They have no shelter, almost no food, but worst of all, no hope. Shouldn’t the UK be spending more time on helping its poor?

There are also problems with the gas and electricity prices, reducing these prices can really help people who have very little money. It can also help old age Pensioners, as you may or may not know, elderly people die because they are too afraid to turn their heaters on thinking they might not be able to afford the power.

With your help that could all change. It may be asking for a lot but what is more important: someone’s life, or money?

In some areas of the country there are empty houses that are not being used, why not give those houses to the homeless people. Giving a homeless person a house can really help them; it can provide them with warmth, shelter and much more.

Think of all the good things that will come out of this dramatic change. If you could put yourself in a poor man’s shoes you could feel the sufferings of this person, I’m sure you will take this all into account and help those who need help because the only hope they have is with you. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter

Yours Sincerely,

Answer by spellczechnow
A few things: try to gain empathy of your reader. If you say this may be of little interest to you – you will piss them off … alienate
However versus but will help shound

Dear Mr. Brown,

I would like to take this time to advise you about a problem that has seemingly been unnoticed in the past few years. The problem is Poverty. I do not think a wealthy country should have people begging for money and living on the streets. I realize you are quite busy; however, but I implore you to take the time to consider this concern.

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Where to compare the residential gas heating price of the three suppliers in Pittsburgh per mcf?

Where to compare the residential gas heating price of the three suppliers in Pittsburgh per mcf?
I know there is a choice program but do not know how to find the site to compare prices. Dominion just raised their prices and I want to see if it is still the best price.

Answer by engineerlaborer
www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_575343.html
lists current prices

Tags: compare, heating, Pittsburgh, price, residential, suppliers, three, Where

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Understand All About Exempt Vat Class In European States

Most European nations have adopted VAT or value added tax as a approach of taxing goods and companies and you should definitely discover all about exempt vat class in european states. Most nations exempt vat from certain products or companies that could pose a financial burden to the public or to needy people.

It’s essential that you just learn all about vat prices including vat exemption in case you plan to begin a business in any European nation. This move will assist you to to slot your items correctly inside the designated vat classifications, which in turn will aid enhance the bottom-line of your company. Once you start your very own manufacturing or trading business and import items or companies into your very own country then you’ll need to pay customs and excise duties based on the type of imports. Whenever you cross the vat threshold limit set up by your nation then you will also need to get vat registered so that you simply can commence charging vat by means of a vat invoice. The threshold limit varies in different eu states and inside the UK the restrict of £70,000 is achieved when your taxable sales cross that quantity within the past 12 months.

Nevertheless, prior to you begin charging vat to your clients you also require to locate out about existing vat prices in your own nation too as in other nations. Thus, knowledge about eu vat at the same time as uk vat is crucial, particularly if your company is situated in the UK. Most nations have three various categories of vat. Almost all goods and services fall below the standard vat charge that varies from 15-25%. Then you will find specific goods and providers that fall beneath reduced vat prices that vary from 1-6%. The final vat charge is really a zero vat charge where no vat is charged by the seller even though any vat, if previously paid on that product or service may be refunded with a vat reclaim.

There are also particular products and providers that generally come beneath the purview of social providers or obligations and generally qualify as exempt vat. Despite the fact that there may well some element of hidden vat inside these goods or companies, buyers or sellers cannot claim any vat back on them. In most international locations providers for example insurance, banking, medical such as hospitals, education, and social security, among others have exemption from vat.

In addition particular items such as postage stamps, medical equipments, and even lotto or gambling services are exempt from vat. If your range of activities or imports falls under any of these sections then you definitely would be exempt from paying or collecting any vat even though you might also not have the ability to ask for a vat refund if vat has already been paid for the exact same in another eu region.

If you’ve trouble in discovering out VAT prices in various countries including your personal or have trouble in filing your vat returns you then should definitely hire a professional vat agent that’s also conversant inside the latest customs, excise and vat rules. This will help you to discover all about exempt vat category in european states, which in turn could also prove to be beneficial for your company.

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Tapping Into A New Kind Of Source

Solar energy is considered a renewable energy source because it uses the power of the sun to produce electricity and heat. Since the sun isn’t going to burn out any time soon, it is a free power resource for the next four or five billion years.

Hydropower – Hydropower is electricity generated by damming a river. Turbines are built into the dam. Much like wind power, water flows down through the dam because of gravity and spins the turbine fans as it passes. This cranks a generator, which produces electricity. Hydropower currently accounts for 10 percent of the electricity production in the US, but is losing popularity as building dams is very expensive.

Thermal conductivity, the study of how energy transfer occurs, sounds very interesting. Radiation, or the movement of infrared energy and light traveling across a room, until they absorb, are also important to the second law of thermodynamics as well, because it makes one think about the process of how atoms and energy move from place to place. The concepts of electricity and magnetism can be explained very differently from how Sir Isaac Newton explained gravitational pulls. One learns that lightning is a result of electrical charges, which come about from the transfer of electrons. That makes one think about what is going on to cause the lightning bolt, rather than just running from them!

If you’re wondering why the world is still so reliant on fossil fuels like oil, petrol and diesel, and why there isn’t more renewable energy used, then perhaps you are about to find out. Consumers like the convenience of petrol and diesel for vehicles, whether for private or public transport. Cars are as popular as ever, despite recent oil price rises, and for most people, the car is the most convenient way of travelling.

You won’t have seen a magnetic generator on the market because of government suppression. However, it is possible to build one to power up a house. The firm Magnets 4 Energy offers instructions on building your own magnetic generator. 160 thousand people around the world are using magnetic generators built to these instructions. The magnetic generator can be constructed so as to provide a percentage of household power, or 100% of household power needs. When it’s providing 100%, people can get paid by the electricity company for the extra power they are contributing to the grid.

Nuclear power isn’t seen as safe by all, and despite reassurances that it is, and there is widespread opposal to plans to create nuclear power stations, and alternatives to nuclear power are being investigated. Water power such as tidal or using rivers to produce energy is not new. Waterwheels and dams have been used for years. Using water to drive turbines to create electricity is not common yet in the UK, even though the UK is an island.

Power cuts and outages will be a thing of the past. And your ongoing alternative power will reduce carbon emissions, thus helping to turn around climate change. The instructions include a backup system, and guided, illustrated steps to follow. The tools and materials are plainly laid out (the materials cost less than $100).

One form of energy, wind (a form of solar energy), is converted to another form of energy, electricity, using a wind turbine. As the turbine spins, electricity is generated. Similar to solar power, wind power is protected from inflation. How? Any power you generate using your own wind turbine goes against the current utility pricing. Wind power can effectively shield you from rising electricity costs.

Internet access at: Techno News or Information Ready

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Republicans: Would you prefer a return to the type of society and economy we had between 1945 and 1980?

Republicans: Would you prefer a return to the type of society and economy we had between 1945 and 1980?
On average, the United States had little national debt and enjoyed a budget surplus which allowed us to be the World’s Lender.
Our industries were the envy of the World, our exports strong and our trade deficit non-existent.
During this time under the Republican President Dwight Eisenhower we started a World Class freeway system that was paid for with real, not borrowed, money.
Our middle class was strong and our schools some of the best in the World.
Most of our large industries, such as steel makers, auto manufactuers and airlines offered defined
benefit pension programs which allowed workers to retire with security and dignity.
We were energy independent for most of these years and enjoyed the benefits of low cost gasoline and electricity.
Most small business such as restaurants, retail outlets, hardware stores, office suppliers and such were locally owned and operated companies.
Our clothing, appliances and automobiles were produced in this country by American workers.

Of course, this all came at a price. Marginal tax rates on very high incomes exceeded 75% at times.
Corporate tax structure was different, discouraging the formation of mega-retailers such as Walmart and restaurant chains such as Taco Bell and Burger King.
Auto loans were restricted to no more than 36 months, causing people to live more within their means.

Or do you prefer the post 1980's with the Reagan tax cuts which lead to the first large budget deficits?
Do you prefer the post 1980's with a steady decline in middle class income with its attendent increase in consumer debt?
Are you more satisfied with more modern times, working for less real money than your father did?
Do you enjoy having to work for 5 or more years to pay for the same transportation that your father paid for in two or three years?

This is not a strictly political question but one of lifestyle preference.
Is the remote possibility that you may someday earn multi-million dollar incomes worth the reality of an almost certain decline in real income and securitythat your parent’s enjoyed?
Or would you prefer the almost certain prospect that if you get a good education and work hard that you can live a comfortable middle class lifestyle, free of debt and with the means to provide security to your family and afford a good education for your children?
No Kevin.
I have just been on the planet longer than you.

Answer by kevin k
do you have a time travel machine?

Tags: 1945, 1980, between, economy, prefer, Republicans, return, society, type, would

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Is Your Dishwasher or Washing Machine a Fire Hazard?

If your 2006-2010 home remodeling or special occasion gift-giving included adding a new dishwasher or front-load washer, then you may have to make sure it hasn’t been recalled recently. Although GE and Maytag appliances are usually very reliable products, they both have had voluntary recalls announced in June, 2010. On June 3rd, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Maytag Corporation announced the recall of approximately 1.7 million dishwashers. CPSC and GE Appliances & Lighting, of Louisville, Kentucky announced the recall of approximately 181,000 GE Front-Load washing machines on June 10th.

According to CPSC, the Maytag Corporation in Newton, Iowa and Benton Harbor, Michigan manufactured the defected dishwashers. Although no injuries have been reported, Maytag has received at least 12 reports of heating element failures. The defective heating elements caused fires and dishwasher damage, with one causing extensive kitchen damages due to the fire.

Maytag Corporation sold the dishwasher through department and appliance stores, as well as by homebuilders nationwide. The dishwashers were sold February 2006 through April 2010. They were priced from $250 to $900, and were made with black, bisque, white, silver, and stainless steel front panels, and have plastic tubs. The brand names, which are printed on the front of the dishwasher, include:

Maytag®Amana ®Jenn-Air®Admiral®Magic Chef®Performa by Maytag® and Crosley®

Only certain models and serial numbers are affected. You can find the model and serial number printed on a label that’s located on a tag near the left side of the door opening, inside the plastic tub. Maytag and CPSC advise consumers to immediately stop using the dishwashers. Additionally, disconnect the electrical power supply to the unit, by shutting off the circuit breaker or fuse. Moreover, you should inform everyone that uses the machine of the possible risk, and contact Maytag if you think you might have a defective dishwasher.

These are the serial numbers involved:

Starting with: NW39 through NW52; NY01 through NY19Or ending with: JC, JE, JG, JJ, JL, JN, JP, JR, JT, JV, JX, LA, LC, LE, LG, LJ, LL, LN, LP, LR, LT, LV, LX, NA, NC, NE, NG, NJ, NL, NN, NP, NR

Maytag Corporation is offering consumers with defective machines the choice of scheduling a free in-home repair or receiving a rebate on the purchase of certain new stainless-steel tub models. Maytag asks consumers not to return the recalled dishwashers to the retailer where they were purchased. For more information about the recall and your options, contact Maytag at (800) 544-5513, or visit their website at www.repair.maytag.com.

GE Appliances & Lighting reported to CPSC that they have received reports of seven incidents which involved flames escaping from the recalled front-load washing machines. Apparently, there’s a wire that can make contact with a metal part on the washtub when it breaks in the machine, if the machine is operating. This poses fire and shock hazards. So far, the only harm caused by the defect has been minor smoke damage. There haven’t been any injuries reported to GE or CPSC.

GE and CPSC reported that the defective washing machines were manufactured in China between December 2006 and February 2010. The description of the recalled units given in the reports is simply GE front-load washing machines without auxiliary water heating. These units were sold in various department and retail stores nationwide, from December 2006 through May 2010. The washers were priced around $700.

To check the model and serial number, look on the bottom right side and on the bottom door frame of the washers. The model number begins with WBVH5. The serial number begins with:

AM, AR, AS, ATDM, DR, DSFM, FRGM, GSHM, HR, HSLM, LR, LSMM, MR, MSRM, RR, RSSM, SR, SSTM, TR, TSVM, VR, VSZL, ZM, ZR, ZS

GE and CPSC are telling consumers to immediately cease using the recalled washers. The defective washer should be unplugged from its electrical outlet, and shouldn’t be operated until it’s been repaired. If you have a defective model, you can contact GE for more information regarding the recall. You can visit GE’s website at www.geappliances.com, or call toll-free at (888) 345-4124 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. GE is offering to remedy the situation by providing free repairs.

CPSC is continuing to collect any reports of incidents or injuries that are related to either of these products. If you have had any problems with the defective models for these or for any other reasons, then contact CPSC. You can visit Consumer Product Safety Commission to report your experiences. CPSC also reminded consumers that it is illegal to resell or attempt to resell any recalled product.

References:

CNN, CPSC, GE Appliances, Maytag Corp, WSLS 10 (Roanoke, VA)

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What’s the average price of rent in Honolulu?

What’s the average price of rent in Honolulu?
I’m just curious. I’m a California resident so I’m just trying to compare states. Also, is gas, food, electric, water, etc. more expensive there than in California?

Thank you and God bless!
-MAD DOG
* = Tell me about it. I live a few blocks away from the beach. Never mind then! Staying in California it is!

Answer by *
i live in LA now,,,,the rents in Hawaii over the last 4 years were about 1100.00 for a studio in okay part of town, down to a 2 br for 1200.00 in the crappy part of town. jobs are super tough to get, unless you know someone. my idea of paradise is NOT working 2 jobs just to pay rent!
the licensing and registration in CA goes down yearly because the value of the cars drops, not so in HI. they either stay the same or constantly goes up. tons of homeless in Oahu too, gas is a bit higher than Ca, food super high, in Ca they dont tax food, in HI they do. electric is high, because many people run AC all the time. we got it good in CA in comparison! stay where you are, we’ll dig out of this economy eventually.

Tags: average, Honolulu, price, rent, Whats

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Kidde PI9000 Battery-Operated Dual Ionization and Photoelectric Sensor Smoke Alarm

Two types of sensors offers best protection for all types of firesIonization sensor protects best against fast flaming fires while the Photoelectric sensor protects best against slow smoldering firesHush Feature temporarily silences nuisance alarmsBattery backup two 9V batteries includedKidde?s smoke alarms meet the requirements of Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent facility that tests products for compliance with widely-accepted safety standards

The Kidde PI9000 Battery-Operated Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm combines photoelectric and ionization sensing technologies into one unit to offer broad detection against smoldering and flaming fires. Experts recommend that for optimal protection you have both types of sensing technology in your home. This smoke alarm’s trademarked Hush feature allows you to silence nuisance alarms, while an indicator LED and test feature let you easily confirm that the alarm is working..caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}ul.indent {list-style: inside disc;text-indent: 20px;}table.callout {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, serif;margin: 10px;width: 250;}td.callout3-c26 {height: 10

Tags: Alarm, BatteryOperated, Dual, Ionization, Kidde, Photoelectric, PI9000, Sensor, Smoke

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Costs for Electricity and Gas in a Golf Course?

Costs for Electricity and Gas in a Golf Course?
I have a business studies assignment and i need to know approximately how much the costs will be for electricity and gas.

Answer by MiSS JaZZo
hey is this dilpreet?

if it is..your sose assignment was sick as man…

Tags: costs, Course, electricity, Golf

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What You Need to Do While Building Solar Panels

Building Solar Panels will not simply decrease expenses but is a perfect approach to obtaining solar power for family homes. Info on solar energy and building solar panels are incorporated in the following paragraphs. Solar power for homes is starting to be increasingly popular. The solar power takes in energy from the sun and is a steady source of energy. A good perk to solar energy for homes is the fact that it decreases your electric costs and who wouldn’t want that?

Now, the standard solar panel that you would take advantage of for your house consists of a semiconductor as well as a silver plate. Every time the sun’s rays gets to the solar cell, it changes starting from solar power to electrical power. Isn’t that amazing? Solar power panels have a battery backup which always stores energy that becomes produced to implement through the night.

Solar powered energy for homes produces no carbon pollutants into the environment that is definitely a perfect advantage. By means of solar power, we can certainly lessen the destruction being sustained to The earth.

Furthermore, solar powered energy for family homes lowers electric power bills and demands little routine maintenance and would make your house go up in worth.

If you’re thinking that acquiring a solar cell is way too pricey particularly when bearing in mind installing fees, consider creating your very own. They’re relatively basic to make and it would reduce prices in a major way. These are the supplies you are going to need: 16 volt solar panel, normal rechargeable 12 volt lead and / or acid battery, a battery box, DC meter, inverter and a portable drill. While trying to find an inexpensive solar cell it could take a little bit of time however it will undoubtedly be found. Check on the net and go shopping in your local area to locate the best costs. Affordable prices can always be discovered on the world wide web.

When you go acquire a electric battery, smaller sized is better in this case. It’s critical for it to always be a deep cell battery because they’re made for continuous usage.. To shield the electric battery, a battery container is necessary. Make certain anytime you obtain a DC meter that it has the voltage is equal to that of the electric battery and DC input (at the very top of the battery container).

So now for the serious job. Together with the drill, fasten your meter and DC input into the the top of battery container. Covered wire is necessary to attach the DC meter to your battery. Attach the wire to the negative source initially and work together with Solely 1 wire at this time. Link the DC inlet and the solar cell to the electric battery.

And bang! Finished. It’s pretty basic. Place the solar cell wherever you would like it to be, wait around eight hours and you will start obtaining some handmade energy.

Posted in Solar Energy.

Tagged with energy, Green Living, home, house, lifestyle, Solar Energy, solar power.

By Kurt Cannon – February 6, 2011

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ETQ TG32P12 4,000 Watt 7 HP 207cc 4-Cycle OHV Gas Powered Portable Generator Best Price

3250 running watts/4000 max wattsETQ 7HP 4 stroke air cooled OHV engine with low oil shut down4 gallon fuel tank provides 13 hours of run time at 50% loadLess than 65 dbNon-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California

Features and Benefits: ETQ 207cc 7 HP OHV engine with low oil shut off protection Easy pull recoil start ETQ’s Sine Power delivers clean and steady current ideal for sensitive electronics ETQ’s Sine Power delivers clean electricity with low THD waveform Large muffler ensures quiet operationWheel kit with handle included. One year manufacturer’s warranty. The TG4000 is a heavy duty, gasoline powered generator. It has a surge rating of 4000 watts and a continuous rating of 3250 watts. Fuel tank capacity: 4 gallon; rated current at 120V: 27.08 amp; max current at 120V: 33.33 amp; noise level at 23': 75 db.The Eastern Tools and Equipment 3250-watt portable generator includes a portability kit to make this heavy-duty generator easily mobile. The

Tags: 207cc, 4000, 4Cycle, best, generator, Portable, powered, price, TG32P12, Watt

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I want to go solar… all electric or keep gas?

I want to go solar… all electric or keep gas?
Im considering a few things and would appreciate any input. I would like to start installing solar panels over the next few years as well as a homemade VAWT windmill (not too big) and black tubing to heat up water before it gets to my water tank.

1 – Install a tankless water heater. Do I go gas or electric?
2 – Install electric clothes dryer instead of gas?
3 – electric stove instead of gas?

My thinking is to go all electric and get rid of my gas bill entirely and try to generate enough electricity on my own to power all the electric appliances.

Just not sure what direction to take! I dont use much electricity ($ 20/mo) and my gas bill is $ 10 in the summer and up to $ 40 in the winter from cooking and heating. Ahhhh. I forgot about heating. It doesnt get too cold where I am, but I would still need heating. I would think gas is still cheaper then electricity for heating.

Any tips or ideas out there? Thanks!

Answer by Jane
I, myself would go gas. I live in TX and when you have a hurricane you could be without electricity for days or weeks. It really depends on where you live also.

Tags: Electric, keep, Solar, want

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Fascinating Solar Energy Facts For The Novice

Over the years, humans have developed a number of ways to produce electricity but they have relied on one simple idea. That idea is turning water into steam to power a turbine. Photovoltaic cells do it in a whole different way. Read on to learn more about that and about other interesting solar energy facts.

On a trip to Africa, John Herschel devised a box that concentrated sunlight on the food at the center, creating a solar cooker. In so doing, he began a whole science of solar energy. That science is divided into two parts, heating and electricity.

We have used the sun to heat our houses since we first had houses. With our greater technological knowledge, we now build special greenhouses to trap sunlight and keep tropical plants alive in harsher climates. Sunlight can also heat water for bathing or recreation.

Photovoltaic cells are grouped into panels and then set into a frame on a grid. When they are in sunlight, they can create electricity without any other apparatus. The amount of electricity is very small, but it can be stored for later use.

Solar generating power plants still use the traditional method of heating a liquid to a boil and then running the steam through a turbine. Giant mirrors are used to focus the heat. The heat source is different, but the principle is the same one that functions in every other power plant on the planet.

While solar power is found wherever there is sunlight, only in California will you find the world’s largest solar power plants. They are in the Mojave Desert and each produce 80 megawatts of power, enough to power 80,000 houses for one hour. Not only that, but California also boasts 9 out of the 11 American solar plants.

In Europe, where vast swathes of desert are few and far between, they have proved more likely to adopt the photovoltaic technology. Portugal and Germany both brought huge solar arrays on line in 2008. While the amount of power generated by each cell is very small, when you gather a bunch of them on a panel and set that panel alongside thousands of others, you get a fair amount of power.

Because it is available everywhere, solar power can be used for a large variety of tasks. Solar collectors can even heat your home! I will leave you with something to think about. Among the many solar energy facts, consider this: if we covered 4% of world desert lands with photovoltaic cells, we could produce enough power to completely meet current demand.

Find out more today about this topic, straight from the world’s best site about this article. Click here!: diy solar panels and how to install solar panel

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Changing Electricity Suppliers

We’ve all been there from time to time – feeling that niggling doubt that suggests you’re not getting as good a deal on your electricity as you might have hoped and wondering if it might be time to change suppliers. Read our guide for some great tips on making the switch. One of the main things you should look at when changing supplier is the comparative prices offered by different companies. This will help you determine what deals are available and if you’re getting a good price.

It also helps to know what kind of deal you want from your supplier. One issue here is the different lengths of contract available and, for example, which one you go for might be determined by how long you’re planning to stay in your current property. Thinking about the kind of service you want from your provider is important. You might consider going for a ‘dual fuel’ deal, where you get gas and electricity from the same company and it can help you make savings.

One key point to consider before making the final decision on which electricity supplier to change to is the reputation of the company and their service. For example, some providers offer what seem like really good deals to tempt people in, but then either hit them with unexpected, additional charges or don’t have good customer service. Going with the cheapest company is not always the best option as they’re not guaranteed to have the good service to match their good prices.

These days, corporate social responsibility – what the company gives back – is considered important, as is the need of consumers to reduce the impact they have on the environment. You should, therefore, also look at the environmental credentials of your chosen supplier to see how much they invest into the electricity network and green energy. This not only helps their long term sustainability but impacts on your service and price, too, so it’s an issue that’s definitely worth looking into for lots of reasons.

One final, really important point to consider when changing electricity supplier is how you will be paying for that electricity. Investigate the payment methods on offer and see which would be best for you. For example, you can save money with some companies if you pay by direct debit. You should also find out what action the company takes if it needs to reclaim any debt and what the penalties are for late payments as this can be a make or break issue for both of you.

More : Business Electricity

Posted in Energy Saving.

Tagged with electricity, energy, energy saving, home improvement, home repair, utility bills.

By Mark Walters – February 7, 2011

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New contest! $100 Amazon gift card, tax software, and fitness boot camp!

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Sunlight Energy Will Become More Accessible By The Day.

Solar energy comes from 150 million kilometres away. The sun is composed of about 70% hydrogen and 28% is helium, leaving only 2% for metals. The main elements react to produce solar energy.

Solar power is generated by nuclear fusion as enormous amounts of hydrogen convert to helium producing gamma rays of heat and light. The power is generated at the core of the Sun and spills out to the surface. From there it spills out into space, and some finds its way to Earth.

Just about the right amount of light travels through 150 million kilometres of space to strike Earth and sustain life here. It is fortunate that we do not get too much of the Sun’s 386 billion megawatts of power, or too little. That is the reason that some people refer to Earth as a very fortunate planet, that has precisely the right conditions for life. In other planets they do not exist in the same harmonious composition

For eons plants on Earth have been storing solar power. When they die and are buried the power remains in the form of coal or oil just beneath the Earth’s surface. One of Earth’s many blessings is that it has the warmth of sunlight every day in addition to treasures of natural resources buried just beneath the surface.

Most of the power that lights and drives our world is derived by burning coal or oil in order to generate electricity. The resources have been stored for centuries beneath the earth and are recovered laboriously. Now it is becoming obvious that they are being rapidly depleted.

Air pollution and alarming rates of depletion have made made the necessity of finding alternative sources critical. Coal and oil recoveries proceed apace, but fly in the face of many environmental concerns.

There is now a strong movement towards nuclear power, but its generation is a dangerous process. The movements of air and water are used increasingly, but are still not sufficient to meet demands for energy.

In this scenario photovoltaic cells make their entry. Made of silicon, each cell absorbs sunlight and transfers it to an electric field. They catch the sun’s power before it even reaches the Earth’s surface. In this way electricity becomes cheap and clean.

The problem lies in scale. Photovoltaic cells catch and convert such minute amounts of electricity that they have to be arranged in panels that have large numbers of cells working in harness. A whole roof full of solar panels provides just enough electricity for some household needs.

The Sun gives out power continuously, but is only caught when it strikes photovoltaic cells directly. Consequently this form of solar power is caught when the Sun shines in a panel, and is then stored in batteries. In this way it can be used at night, or in shady spots.

Solar energy may be found at work in many appliances such as calculators, lights and small electric gadgets. It was used half a century ago in space travel. After this photovoltaic cells found an even wider currency. It is not beyond the bounds of possibility that it will be used to power cars in the future. When that day dawns motoring will become a lot more economical and the Planet will be much better off.

Solar energy is very useful when it comes to doing your part in saving our world. We would like to tell you all more about solar electricity right asap.

Posted in Solar Energy.

Tagged with alternative energy, environment, green electricity, home, photovoltaics, property, pv panels, solar electricity, Solar Energy, solar panels, solar pv.

By Chester Kennedy – February 3, 2011

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What is predicted to happen to the gas prices in california? will it ever drop?

What is predicted to happen to the gas prices in california? will it ever drop?
What is predicted to happen to the gas prices in california? will it ever drop?
right now its like 5 bucks a gallon. is the price predicted to rise? when will the price start dropping again? which president do you think will help us stabilize our economy again and have decent prices for gas in california? it is outrageous.
maybe something bout US owning Antarctica? will that help the gas prices become more stable?

Answer by Mr. Buckets
Up. No.

Tags: california, drop, ever, happen, predicted, prices, what

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$300 Visa contest winners announced!

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The 2010 Hurricane Season’s Here: Are You and Your Home Prepared?

June 1st was the official first day of the 2010 Atlantic Basin hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) held Hurricane Preparedness Week activities from May 23rd through May 29th, hoping to reduce the disastrous effects caused by hurricanes and tropical storms. NOAA is predicting an extremely active season this year.

If you participated in NOAA’s activities, then you may be more prepared than many of your neighbors. However, even if you didn’t get a head start, it’s still not too late to retrofit your home to withstand the hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 until November 30, 2010.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), an average of eleven tropical storms develops each year. Although most will never impact U.S. coastlines, six of the tropical storms are likely to become hurricanes. Approximately five hurricanes impact U.S. coastlines in a 3-year period, with two of them being major or intense hurricanes. However, a lower category storm, including tropical storms, can produce significant damage and loss of life too, depending what hazards accompany the storm.

A hurricane is considered major or intense once it reaches a category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. Approximately 50 to 100 people are killed during the five hurricanes that hit the U.S. coastline during the average 3-year cycle. It used to be a much higher rate, but the better warning systems now help to reduce the fatalities. NOAA estimates that an average of $5+ billion of damage results from hurricanes annually.

Hurricanes can produce storm surge, flooding, high winds, and tornadoes. Therefore, homeowners who reside in hurricane prone areas must renovate their homes to the latest building and safety codes designed to withstand these dangers. Although damages cannot totally be avoided, the risks can be reduced by taking certain precautions. Here’s a list of home remodeling projects the Institute for Business and Home Safety recommend for June (starting with the least expensive):

1. Do a visual inspection of the entire property, or have a professional builder or engineer with specific knowledge of hurricane building codes, inspect your property for safety hazards, and conduct any needed maintenance.
2. Remove any gravel/rock landscaping material and replace it with shredded bark.
3. Trim all trees, roses, vines, and shrubbery and remove any weak branches and trees. If possible, create a channel through the foliage to the center of the tree to allow air flow.
4. Ensure screened porches and any similar areas are properly attached.
5. Ensure the double-entry doors are reinforced with heavy duty foot and head bolts, and a security dead bolt lock that has a 1” minimum bolt throw length.
6. Ensure the double garage doors and tracks are reinforced properly, or replace the double garage door with a hurricane wind load tested garage door.
7. Ensure the roof sheathing is adequately attached. If it’s not, then attach it, using adhesive to attach the sheathing to the rafters, and use extra 8d (8 penny) nails or #8 screws if you have to reroof the house.
8. Ensure the gable end walls and roof trusses are braced properly.
9. Ensure all large windows and patio doors can quickly and easily be securely fastened and covered with plywood storm shutters, or install tested manufactured hurricane shutters.
10. Ensure the roof rafters and trusses are connected to the side walls with hurricane clips/straps.
11. Ensure all exterior walls are properly connected to the foundation. You may need professional assistance with this task, if you have a masonry-type construction.
12. If necessary, reroof, using adequate underlayment and other hurricane tested roofing materials.
13. Install a security room.

Other steps you should take to prepare for a hurricane are to:

Make a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes, and methods of contacting and accounting for each other, as well as who’s responsible for what, and rehearse it frequently. Be sure to include plans for evacuating any animals, rescuing family heirlooms, and retrieving any important documentation.Prepare an emergency kit, containing at least a 3-day supply (for each family member and pet) of bottled water, non-perishable food (preferably none that needs to be cooked), blankets, clothing, personal items, flashlights, extra batteries, a weather monitor or AM/FM battery operated radio, first aid materials, and tools you may need. Additionally, keep a supply of extra plywood, and any other materials you may need to secure your property, since many stores will quickly run out of supplies once the storm alert is given.Once you have been alerted to an approaching storm, gather all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, potential debris, and other loose items, and then place them inside. Also help your neighbors to do the same.Leave any low lying areas, and if asked to evacuate, do so as quickly as possible, without panicking.
Others found this page by searching for: list of home prepared safety.

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