b l baird
I spent many years in the electro-mechanical trades. I also worked as an electrician and did other forms of construction related work. I enjoy home repair projects and learning about how to do them. That, with an enjoyment of writing, makes for a fun hobby.
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- 10/10/2007
Education/Experience
A.S.E.T. Certificate in Mechanics. O.S.H.A 30 hour certificateInterests
home repair, electrical, plumbing, handyman, handcrafts, small business, on-line sales, website developmentMotto
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Winter in OhioWinters in Ohio go from zero to 60 as fast as a Porsche. Just a Haiku
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How I Learned the Value of Studying All the SciencesTechnology is changing rapidly. Today, more than ever, students need an understanding of all the sciences.
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Writer’s LamentA simple Haiku -
Unique Skate Plaza in Kettering, OhioThe Rob Dyrdek/DC Shoes Foundation Skate Plaza is more than just a park. It offers skateboarders a city street skating opportunity in a legal environment.
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How to Get a Home Repair To-Do List Under ControlA loose leaf binder notebook, kept in a central location, can make a significant difference in getting home repair needs under control. -
Getting Yard Equipment Ready for SpringA very important step in putting most lawnmowers away before winter is the addition of a fuel stabilizer. If this was done the engine should start up fairly smoothly. If it was not things could become a bit difficult.
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What Are French Drains?French drains have grown over the years from gravel trenches to tile and pipe systems to more elaborate PVC assemblies with valves and clean outs.
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The Basics of Building Your Own HomeWhile the job of building your own home is immense if you have the time and ability it can be a worthwhile experience
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The Premier of "Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior", Worth Watching Twice"Suspect Behavior" has taken the better aspects of the original and combined them with characters that seem more human. The first episode was not as dark or disturbing an adventure into abnormal psychology either.
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"Bones": The Ring in the River, February 2011However, this episode of "Bones" was far better for the interpersonal relationships of the characters and outshined all of the forensics and technology that is normally captivating.
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Adding an Extra Bathroom: How Up-Flush Macerating Systems Can HelpHomeowners that want to add a bathroom or any other fixtures in a basement do not seem to have many options.
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Floating in Air: Using Cantilevers to Support an Entire RoomWhile the idea may not be for the timid, a room with an incredible view that seemingly floats in air is an impressive design.
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What Are Tankless Water Heaters?Tankless water heaters can be purchased in all size ranges from whole house units to point of use models. -
What to Avoid when Improving Your Home for Resale ValueHomes in most neighborhoods tend to fall within one or two price ranges. Improvements may be seen as a blessing to some buyers and a curse to others. -
Perspectives on Community CollegesViewpoints as a student, a parent and an employee -
How to Calculate Your Home Energy UsageThe personal computer that runs 24/7 with no sleep mode will cost $8.40 per month. When you add up each individual amount you can see where all the money is going.
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How to Check Lumber for WarpingWood working projects all require different types of wood. The quality of the wood you use can be a significant factor in the end result of the project.
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Ways to Save Money on Tool PurchasesMany times older tools can also be a better quality. People will be selling new items that they received as gifts and have no use for. Contractors may sell off older tools after purchasing new models.
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How to Choose the Correct Snow ShovelThe size of the blade should be considered as well. A smaller blade size will remove less snow or ice but it will also be lighter for lifting.
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Introduction to the TV Series "Bones""Bones" can make for some excellent television viewing although the show is not for the squeamish
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Methods for Locating the Studs in Your WallsDetermining the location of studs inside your walls can be frustrating but there are a few methods that can be used without excessive difficulty. -
How to Winterize Your RVRV winterizing can be done professionally but most of the work is not too difficult for owners to do themselves.
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Repairs Made Simple: How to Repair Leaking PVC PipeRepairing PVC water pipes is a reasonably simple procedure that most do-it-yourself enthusiasts can undertake without a great deal of difficulty. You will only need a few tools and supplies.
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Tips for Repairing a Dishwasher that Will Not DrainTroubleshooting and repairing a dishwasher drainage system is not difficult if you know where to begin.
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Beginning Do-It-Yourself Home Repair Guide for WomenRemember to be proud of your do-it-yourself successes and learn from the mistakes you make along the way.
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The Importance of Covering Your Hot TubGood quality covers are easy to use and they provide you with more benefits than inconveniences.
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YouTube Channels for DIY Home Repair and ImprovementThe ability to watch a video and see exactly how a job is done can greatly reduce the confusion and guess work about the job you wish to do.
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How to Dispose of Used Oil from Lawn EquipmentOnce recycled a single gallon of used oil can become close to two and a half quarts of new clean oil.
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Introduction to Circular Saw BladesBlades for circular saws come in a wide range of types with different teeth styles and numbers depending on the material and type of cut you need.
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How to Repair a Leaking RoofLeaks can come from various problems. Once you find the leak there are different methods used for repair.
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Steps for Preparing Concrete Surfaces for CoatingsProper preparation of a concrete floor is essential before any coating material is applied.
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How Do You Know If You Need a New Roof?The type of shingles is only one factor in how long you can expect your roof to last.
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What is the Purpose of Building Permits?The primary purpose of a building permit is to ensure that all work is performed to national code requirements or more stringent local codes for safety.
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What Should You Consider when Choosing a Roof Color?The days of only black asphalt or red clay tiles are long past. You have choices and choosing a color is a decision that you will need to make. -
What Should You Think About Before You Decide to Remodel?Small or large, remodeling projects involve many things that you should consider before you decide to begin.
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Tips for Shopping Online for Your Remodeling ProjectOnline shopping is becoming increasingly popular and more building supply companies have websites developed for use by consumers.
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Solving Humidity Problems in Your HomeToo much or too little humidity can effect your comfort level in both summer and winter.
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Simple Maintenance for Fiberglass PoolsFiberglass pools are designed to require less maintenance than concrete type pools.
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How to Choose an Electrical ContractorChoosing an electrical contractor based on price alone is not the best decision.
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Simple Tips for Aging in Your HomeStaying in your own home as you age can be a comfortable experience.
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The Study of Earthquake AftershocksEarthquakes that are large enough to cause damage will usually be followed by one or more aftershocks.
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What is a Supercell?The largest and most severe types of thunderstorms are referred to as supercells
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What Are the Mechanics of a Storm Surge?A storm surge is an offshore rise in water
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What Are Stratovolcanoes?Beautiful but deadly
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What Causes a Limnic Eruption?Limnic eruptions are a rare but deadly occurrence
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What Are the Effects of Pyroclastic Flows?Flows from volcanic eruptions can be deadly
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What is Cyclogenesis?An introduction to cyclones
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How to Prepare Your Home for Major StormsYou may not be able to prevent all storm damage but there are simple steps you can take.
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How to Prepare Your Home for EarthquakesA few simple steps now can save you a great deal of grief later.
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What Causes Liquefaction Ground Failure?Liquefaction ground failure is the result of an earthquake in an area of wet loose soil
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What Are the Three Types of Earthquakes Faults?There are three main types of earthquake faults
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How is Landfill Methane Used?Landfill methane can be turned into a power source
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A Brief History of Geothermal HeatingGeothermal heating is not a new idea
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Why Should We Use Renewable Energy Sources More Than Fossil Fuels?Renewable energy sources are readily available and less environmentally dangerous
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What is the Wind Profile Power Law?The wind profile power law allows for determining wind speed
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What Are Solar Ovens?Solar ovens provide a method of cooking without using gas or electric power.
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How Do Hydroelectric Dams Work?Hydroelectric dams produce a renewable source of green energy
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Advantages of Tidal Stream TurbinesTidal stream turbines produce green energy with less environmental impacts than some other types of green energy production.
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Easy Ways to Donate to the Haitian Relief EffortThere are numerous ways to donate to help Haiti. Some of these will not even cost you any money out of your pocket
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What is a Solar Chimney?Solar chimneys are used for cooling buildings without the use of any gas or electric power
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How to Use RapidShare.ComRapidShare is an excellent option for storing and sharing files on the internet.
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Tax Breaks for Single and Lower Income Parents, 2009 Tax YearMany tax breaks are available for single parents and low income couples
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How to Prevent Ice Dams and the Damage They CauseIce dams along gutters may be pretty but they are a sign of potential roof damage.
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How RSS Feeds Work on Flickr.ComBasic RSS feeds are set up automatically to distribute your content on Flickr.com
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What Are the Advatages to Using Linkedin.Com?Linkedin.com is a professional networking site
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What is Lala.ComLala.com is an internet search site for music
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How to Use Lala.ComLala.com is fairly easy to use to search for music on the internet
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Review of Lala.ComLala.com is an interesting music site for searching, saving and downloading musical choices
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How to Upload Photos and Videos on Photobucket.ComUploading one or bulk photos on Photobucket requires only basic skills
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The Benefits of Using Photobucket for Photo and Video StorageStoring and sharing photos and videos on Photobucket is free for casual users
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A Review of Pandora.Com Internet RadioPandora.com is an enjoyable an easy musical experience.
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How to Find New Music on Pandora.Com Internet RadioFinding new music and saving your musical choices on Pandora is easy following step by step instructions
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How to Use Pandora Internet RadioPandora is easy to use and free for up to 40 hours a month
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Changes to the Alternative Minimum Tax 2009 and 2010Changes have been made to the Alternative Minimum Tax for tax years 2009 and 2010.
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What is the Recovery Rebate Credit?This credit has been designed for those that did not receive the full Stimulus rebate credit.
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The Dual Benefits of Insulating and Improving Your Home in 2009 and 2010Making your home more energy efficient is a good idea, tax credits offered by the federal government make it a great idea.
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Who Are the U.S. Army Rangers?Army Rangers have been in service for a long time and have a significant place in military history.
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What is the Making Work Pay Tax Credit?Taxpayers can receive $400 to $800 addtional income in 2009 and 2010. Unfortunately there is a catch.....
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Resources and Tips for Preparing the Form 1040 Tax ReturnFree and low cost help is available for anoyone wishing to prepare their own 1040 tax return.
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What You Should Do If You Make a Mistake on Your Federal Tax ReturnMistakes on tax returns happen and fixing those mistakes is not difficult.
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What is the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009?Billions of dollars are being pumped into the ecomony for economic recovery and tax reductions.
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A Guide to Taxes on Social Security BenefitsIf you receive income other than social security benefits your benefits may be taxable.
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Chemistry: What is a Lab on a Chip?Miniature chemistry means not needing to take a huge laboratory along for testing.
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Deductions that Can Lower Your 2009 Taxable IncomeYour A.G.I. or Adjusted Gross Income can be less than your total income if you are able to take these types of deductions.
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Credits Available to Reduce Your Federal Tax Debt, 2009Many credits are available to reduce the amount of tax you owe on your federal tax return
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A Guide to the First Time Homebuyers Credit 2009The first time homebuyers credit can be very helpful for new home owners
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Chemistry Science Fair: Making Colored BubblesColored bubbles can be used as a creative science fair project
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How to Fill Out a 1099 Form1099 forms are issued to sub-contractors and self-employed individuals.
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How to Troubleshoot Wireless Door BellsInstalling wireless door bells is easy but some trouble shooting may be required for best operation.
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How Symbols Are Used in the LaboratoryMany sysmbols are used in everyday life and sysmbols used in labs can be important for safety
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What was the Basis of Dalton's Atomic Theory?Dalton first proposed his atomic theory in 1803
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Family Activities for New Year's Eve in the Kettering - Dayton Ohio AreaNot having anything to do is not the problem, choosing from all the available activities might be.
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What Were Some of Neils Bohr's Contributions to Chemistry?Niels Bohr received a Nobel Prize for physics and his contributions to chemistry vastly changed the knowledge of the atom in his time.
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How Are Isotopes Used?Isotopes are used for many other purposes than the production of nuclear fuel
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How to Determine If a Substance is an Acid or BasepH testing is done to determine the acid or alkaline level of substances.
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How to Read an Electron Configuration ChartThe electronic configuration chart may seem imposing but with some study and practice it is not that intimidating.
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How to Change a Television FuseThe most important part of working on a television is safety. Keep this in mind before attempting any television repairs.
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How to Store and Maintain a GeneratorOwning a generator is a good idea if you are in an area with frequent power outages. Storing and maintaining your generator correctly will help it provide trouble free service
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Steps to Take to Repair a Convection OvenThe are some steps that the oven owner can take to repair a convection oven. Just keep your personal safety in mind before attempting any repairs.
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Simple Steps for Repairing a DoorbellDoorbells are not difficult to repair and by following a few simple steps most homeowners can make the repairs themselves.
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How to Be Safe when Installing Outdoor LightingThere are two important safety factors to keep in mind when installing outdoor lighting, ladder and electrical safety.
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How to Save Money on Electric Lighting CostsThere are several ways you can save on the lighting portion of your utility bills. Most are inexpensive and easy enough for the average homeowner to accomplish.
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How to Winterize Your Home PlumbingWinterizing your plumbing can help you avoid frozen pipes and possibly help you save on some of your water heating costs.
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Benefits and Drawbacks to Blow-in Blanket InsulationWhile blow-in insulation is not that difficult to install there are points to keep in mind.
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How to Disconnect a Gas StoveDisconnecting a gas stove is not difficult but steps should be taken to prevent any gas leaks.
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Traditional Hanukkah FoodsThere are many delicious foods associated with the celebration of Hanukkah
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How to Make Your Own Hanukkah DecorationsThere are many easy decorations that you can make yourself for Hanukkah
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Guide to Lighting a MenorahThere are many rules to follow in lighting a Menorah, some of these are described in this article.
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Is Turkey Haiku Good for You?maybe.... but not for the turkey
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A Guide to the Game Texas Hold Emhow the fun and popular game of Texas hold em is played
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Ideas for a Biology Science Fair ProjectBiology projects for science fairs come in many difficulty levels.
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How to Make Your Own MenorahThere are several fun and easy ways to make your own Hanukkah Menorah
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A Guide to Hanukkah TraditionsThe lighting of the Menorah is only one of the traditions observed during Hanukkah
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Hanukkah Crafts for Older ChildrenMore challenging Hanukkah crafts for older children
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Hanukkah Craft Ideas for Young ChildrenHanukkah crafts can not only entertain but also educate
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How to Find Music for Hanukkah On-lineSongs and music for Hanukkah is even easy to find with the internet, some is even available for free.
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NASA's Constellation Program, a Brief GuideNASA's Constellation program has years to go until completion but the technology is well worth following
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Quantum Physics and the Law of AttractionWhile quantum physics is a complex subject, its' interaction with the law of attraction makes an interesting study
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The History of HanukkahThe history of what lead up to what is celebrated as Hanukkah
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Ideas for Science Fair Chemistry ProjectsChemistry science projects can be safe and fun and there are many ideas available.
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The Basics of Genetics and Inheritance PatternsA simplified guide for an understanding of basic genetic inheritance patterns
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What is Static Electricity?Static electricity in simplified form
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Science Fair Projects, How to Grow CrystalsGrowing crystals is not only easy but can be fun and edible as well!
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The Benefits of an Electric Furnacemany times an electric furnace will be more beneficial to the homweowner than other furnace choices
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What to Do when a Furnace MalfunctionsThere are several steps a homeowner can take before calling for service help
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How to Maintain an Oil FurnaceOil furnaces do require more maintanence than most other types. Simple cleaning can help keep your furnace trouble free.
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How to Troubleshoot Home Furnace Igniter ProblemsSome furnace problems can be diagnosed by the homeowner before service is done.
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What to Look for when Buying a New FurnaceThere are many things to consider when buying a new furnace
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How to Install a FurnaceFurnace replacement is best left to experts but understanding the procedure can greatly help the homeowner.
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How to Replace the Thermocouple in a FurnaceReplacing a thermocouple on a furnace is not a difficult project for anyone with basic DIY skills.
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Safety Tips for Gas FurnacesGas furnaces are very popular but there are several safety rules to keep in mind when using one
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How an Outdoor Furnace Worksunderstanding how an outdoor furnace operates can help if you are considering purchasing one.
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The Benefits and Drawbacks of an Outdoor FurnaceUnderstanding the pros and cons of an outdoor furnace should help in your decision if one is right for you.
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How to Maintain an Electric FurnaceElectric furnaces are one of the easiest to maintain and maintenance will keep them running longer.
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Energy Saving Tips for FurnacesHeating, or cooling, your home is one of the most expensive utility bills most people pay. There are ways to reduce your heating costs.
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The Differences Between Oil and Propane FurnacesUnderstanding the differences between furnace types can help with your decision in what type of furnace to use.
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Important Nutritional Supplements for WomenThree nutritional supplements women should consider
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Indigenous Peoples Day in the U.SA history and explanation of Indigenous Peoples Day
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More Halloween HaikuI am learning and enjoying Haiku, stay tuned for more!
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Halloween Haikuhalloween haiku
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The Origins of Columbus Day in the United StatesHistory surrounding the celebration of Columbus Day in the United States
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How to Make Your Own Halloween Greeting CardsHalloween cards can be simple to make, cost effective and fun
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How to Have a Great New Years Eve Party on a BudgetGreat parties do not have to involve great costs!
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The Controversies Surrounding Columbus DayAs Columbus Day is celebrated, questions are asked about his heroics and discovery.
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Halloween Costume Ideas for the Physically ChallengedEveryone should be able to enjoy Halloween activities regardless of physical abilities.
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How to Find Jack-o-lantern Patterns for HalloweenPatterns for pumpking carving are available for free on many websites.
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How to Find Local Haunted Houses for HalloweenVarious methods for finding local events and attractions for Halloween
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How to Choose Between Aspirin and Other Pain RelieversA comparison of aspirin and other pain relievers as well as side effects in use.
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Medical Marijuana UseLegalities, uses and drawbacks for medical marijuana
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The Symbolic Meanings of Traditional Rosh Hashanah FoodsMany types of food items are served during Rosh Hashanah and each have meanings in the observance.
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How to Observe Tashlich During Rosh HashanahTashlich is performed as a symbolic way to cast off sins.
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The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati OhioThe Cincinnati Zoo offers many activities and adventures for all ages
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The Significance of Blowing the Shofar on Rosh HashanahThe Shofar is a very important part of the celebration of Rosh Hashanah
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The Meaning of Rosh HashanahA brief definition of the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah
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How to Save Money and Reduce the Cost of CollegeThere are many ways to reduce the expenses of a college education
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School Wardrobes on a Budget!You can put together a great new wardrobe without spending too much
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How to Add Exercise to Your Already Busy School WeekExercise is not only healthy but can reduce the stress of being too busy!
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How to Collect and Process Rose HipsRose hips are high in vitamin C and can also make a wonderful skin oil.
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Growing and Harvesting Loofahloofah, loofa, loufa or luffa, many spelling and many uses for this garden sponge!
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Some Simple Tips to Help with Teenage Weight ManagementI am not a medical professional but was once a teenager and have a couple of my own.
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So You Want to Pierce Your Nose?My experiences in having my nose pierced
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Weight Changes Can Affect Body PiercingsChanges in weight or muscle mass can affect some types of body piercings
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The Difference Between Ravens and CrowsWhile ravens are a member of the crow family not all crows are ravens
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What is a Coverdell Education Savings Account?One of many ways to save for college the Coverdell plan has restrictions that should be noted.
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A Guide to Tax Benefits that Can Help Reduce College CostsThe are many tax breaks available when it comes to paying for higher education!
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What is a 529 Savings Plan?An introduction to tax free college savings
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Painless Ways to Save for College with UpromiseUpromise offers many ways to save for college
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Basics of Canning BlackberriesBlackberries are an excellent fruit and easy to preserve
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Body Jewelry Gauges, Sizes and TerminologyA brief overview of body jewelry and piercing sizes and terminology
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What is a Bengal Cat?What I found out while researching a stray.
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Coney Island Park, Cincinnati OhioConey Island Park is a wonderful smaller amusment park with something for the whole family
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Columbus Ohio: A Brief Guide for Real EstateColumbus has a wide range of real estate available to buyers and an equally wide range of things to do
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Dayton Ohio Parks for Family Gatherings and ActivitiesMany recreational parks are available in Dayton Ohio for families to enjoy
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Do You Need Earthquake Insurance?Location and property type help determine the need for earthquake insurance.
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Sinclair Community College in Dayton, OhioSinclair Community College is not only affordable but diverse in program offerings.
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How to Dry Clothing Without a Machine DryerA brief guide to drying clothing and household items without a clothes dryer.
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Celebrity Apprentice, Finally Just Too OffensiveA community has been deeply offended by Celebrity Apprentice and not because of who did or did not get fired! -
What is Dwarfism, Proportional Dwarfism?Here is a brief introduction to types of Dwarfism and Proportional Dwarfism.
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What is Dwarfism, Proportional Dwarfism?Part three of my series describes some of the issues we are dealing with at this time. It is a bumpy road, sometimes funny, sometimes painful, but we will travel it together.
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What is Dwarfism, Proportional Dwarfism?This is the second article in my series. It deals with what we dealt with before diagnosis of genetic short stature.
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My Own Home Buying ExperienceMy experience in trying to purchase a home in Ohio
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Cats Have PurrsonalityAdventures in a three cat home -
My PEX Plumbing Guides on EBayWhat I have learned in the past year of writing on the internet. -
Sitting on Explosives...The Difference Between Fear and Respect!A bit of my own personal "bucket list" experience. -
Key Quest Mini Games on NeopetsA brief guide to the mini-games that appear during a game of Key Quest. -
Can You Think?"I just want people to think, and not accept what has been taken as truth in the past".
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Key Quest, a Multi-player Game on NeopetsA brief guide and one players view of the game. -
Spitak and the Q-tipa kitten story
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A Bad Buying Experience on eBayI only hope that by writing this other buyers will learn things to watch out for. -
Bad Selling Experiences on eBayExperiences with e-checks, charge backs and other selling losses.
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A Vacation in Hocking Hills OhioHocking Hills, Ohio is a great vacation spot for couples and families that want to relax, adventure or both!
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Hurricane Ike's Effects Felt in Southwest OhioIt has now been one week since we were hit with Hurricane Ike, so far inland that it would seem impossible.
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The Auction Widget that Pays You for Views!A widget that pays you for item views and helps generate more item views, plus it is easy to use! The widget works in e-Bay auction listings and store items.
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Game Guide for KORBATS LAB Two, on NEOPETSThis game guide is for the NEW version of KORBATS LAB, a NEOPETS game that is a croos between ping-pong and billiards.
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PEX Plumbing Part 6a, TOOLS!Extra photos of tools used in PEX plumbing -
PEX Plumbing Part 6, TOOLS!Tools used in the installation of PEX plumbing -
PEX Plumbing Part 5, MANIFOLDSManifolds are a water distribution system used in PEX plumbing -
PEX Plumbing Part 4, Poly-Alloy FittingsPex fittings, connector pieces, are not only made in a brass but also Poly-Aloy. -
PEX Plumbing Part 7, Specialty FittingsThis is part seven in my Pex plumbing guide series. I have finally done more research and can address some of the more specialized fittings found in Pex plumbing. -
PEX Plumbing Part 3: Couplings and FittingsThird in my series of PEX plumbing articles. This goes into greater detail about the type of connectors used with PEX tubing.
