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Help your landscape defeat the heat and thrive this season
(BPT) - Most of us have heard the rhyme “April showers bring May flowers." While April has traditionally been a rainy period, giving way to the start of spring growth and colors, this coming season also could bring stifling heat that scorches landscapes or results in on-going water shortages. After more than two-thirds ...
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Listen up: For better hearing, work with an audiologist
(BPT) - When it comes to startling health statistics, here are several you may not have heard: 36 million American have a hearing loss, yet only one out of every four people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wears one, according to the National Institutes of Health’s National Information Center on Deafness a...
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It's all in the details - how to accessorize your home exterior
(BPT) - When considering exterior home improvements during spring and summer, many homeowners go for updates such as the replacement of siding or windows. These projects can make the home look great while boosting energy efficiency, but no matter how much homeowners invest in siding or windows, it will only look as good...
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Take control and mitigate mold growth in your home
(BPT) - Damp, dark areas of the home, such as an unfinished basement, can often be trouble spots for homeowners hoping to increase their living space. Left unfinished, these areas of the home can potentially suffer significant damage, be prone to flooding or develop mold. When it comes to home improvement, homeowners ar...
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Budgeting 101: How new graduates can conquer entry-level income challenges
(BPT) - Spring is the perfect time for young Americans to take a look at their budgets and become financially fit. Not only is April Financial Literacy Month, complete with nonprofit organizations around the country offering free seminars and online resources, but millions of high school and college students are also preparing for graduation and the next phase of their lives. But are new grads ready for the financial challenges that lay ahead? The average student loan debt for borrowers in ...
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A celebrity chef's tips for scoring big with game-day partying
(BPT) - Whatever sports you like to watch – whether pro levels or big collegiate moments such as the NCAA Men's Final Four, NCAA Frozen Four or College World Series – they all have one important thing in common: watching with friends makes them even more fun. Hosting the perfect game-day viewing party is sure to score b...
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Survey: More parents pursuing college degrees, talking to children about higher education
(BPT) - Enhanced earning potential and more career opportunities are two of the many benefits of earning an advanced degree. Now, many mothers and fathers in America have discovered another benefit of going back to school – it is a great parenting tool. Parents are considering higher education not only to help them get ...
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Making the perfect outdoor living space in your backyard
(BPT) - As the weather begins to warm and the daylight hours get longer, your yard can quickly become the most important “room” of your home. However, you aren’t alone if your backyard looks outdated and lackluster. Weather conditions can be tough on outdoor areas, but with a few simple updates, you can create the perfe...
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Simple ways to save energy at home in just minutes
(BPT) - Home is where the heart is. But it’s also a place where families can be more conscious of their energy use. While conserving energy helps save the planet, it also helps homeowners save money. According to Christine Ackerson, sustainability manager at LG Electronics USA, by adopting a green mindset and taking a ...
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Lawn care 101: Dig into spring with tips for a lush lawn
(BPT) - Having a well-kept lawn not only will keep you in your neighbors’ good graces, it also adds value to your home. Lawn care doesn’t need to be complicated, but sometimes it just needs to be done. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just looking for smarter ways to mow, seed or weed, the experts at The Home Depot ...
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Gas fireplaces get even safer
Whether it’s to provide heat on cold winter days or to set the mood on romantic spring evenings, a glowing fire creates an appealing home atmosphere during any season. Gas fireplaces are convenient and add real estate value, but recently, more homeowners have become concerned about safety. The burn risk of glass is one...
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Baby boomers: Bathroom updates that increase livability and home value
(BPT) - Baby boomers are a smart group when it comes to home updates. While embracing life today, they fully recognize that in the future, their homes may need upgrades to help them live well and stay safe. The bathroom naturally gets the most attention and for good reason – it’s one of the most frequently used rooms in...
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national news

People look at the destruction after a huge tornado struck Moore, OklahomaBy Alice Mannette and Ian Simpson MOORE, Oklahoma (Reuters) - At least 91 people, including 20 children, were feared killed when a 2 mile wide tornado tore through an Oklahoma City suburb, trapping victims beneath the rubble as one elementary school took a direct hit and another was destroyed. President Barack Obama declared a major disaster area in Oklahoma, ordering federal aid to supplement state and local efforts in Moore after the deadliest U.S. tornado since one killed 161 people in Joplin, Missouri, two years ago. ...


Tue May 21 01:54:46 UTC 2013

A U.S. Marine, who is part of a military honor guard, takes his position before a welcoming ceremony for German Defense Minister de Maiziere at the Pentagon in WashingtonBy Tabassum Zakaria and Mark Hosenball WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama's administration has decided to give the Pentagon control of some drone operations against terrorism suspects overseas that are currently run by the CIA, several U.S. government sources said on Monday. Obama has pledged more transparency on controversial counterterrorism programs, and giving the Pentagon the responsibility for part of the drone program could open it to greater congressional oversight. ...


Mon May 20 20:35:27 UTC 2013

Commuters arrive at the South Norwalk train station to be transferred to buses to Bridgeport to re-board Metro-North trains bound for New HavenBy Richard Weizel WESTPORT, Connecticut (Reuters) - Connecticut rail commuters endured crowded and rerouted rides in to work on Monday, as Metro-North worked to repair the busiest U.S. rail line after a two-train collision and derailment injured more than 70 people late last week. Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy said commuters should expect "serious disruptions," and encouraged riders to stay home if possible as repair crews worked to fix or replace more than 2,000 feet of track as well as overhead wires and other equipment. ...


Mon May 20 17:13:49 UTC 2013
A devastating, two-mile-wide tornado touched down near Oklahoma City on Monday, killing at least 51 people—including at least 20 children—decimating homes, businesses and a pair of elementary schools in the suburb of Moore. According to the state's medical examiner, the death toll was expected to rise. The schools—Plaza Towers Elementary and Briarwood Elementary—were leveled by [...]
Mon May 20 19:53:06 UTC 2013