Sylvia Cochran
Sylvia Cochran works out of sunny Southern California and has been freelance writing -- full-time -- since 2005. SEO-optimized Internet copy includes news analysis, political Op/Ed and parenting, gardening as well as automotive tutorials. Her ghostwriting work covers a variety of topics but primarily focuses on blogging, article advertising and real estate promotion. Sylvia earned her degree from the Denver Business College.
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The end does not justify the means; instead, the means frequently alter the end.
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Top 3 Breathing Problems in Pugs (and Their Solutions)Before scooping up one or more of the puppy pugs for sale in the pet store window, be aware that this breed is susceptible to breathing problems. Only if you can commit to dealing with these pug health issues, should you proceed with the purchase. -
Top 5 California Memorial Day Weekend Music and Festival Events in 2013Californians love a good arts and music festival. Is it any surprise that Memorial Day weekend is filled with local events that celebrate visual and performing arts? Where should you go for a party atmosphere on this three-day weekend? -
Memorial Day Grill Safety Tips for Pet ParentsCorn cobs, peach pits, bone splinters and hot coals are just a few of the dangers that pets face during your Memorial Day barbecue. Grill safety tips make the occasion less dangerous for you and your canine companion. -
Travel Trends for Memorial Day 2013A six-percent drop in airfare costs to one popular city, a Tennessee city as a new insider travel destination and the promise of dropping gasoline prices are just a few of the expert predictions for Memorial Day 2013. What else is on the menu? -
Continuing California Prison Realignment Could Overwhelm CountiesViolence, racism and valley fever are just a few problems California penitentiaries currently face. With the ongoing prison realignment adding more problems for jails on the county level, California officials are scrambling for solutions.
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Shopping for Pottery in Los AngelesThese are four venues where you can shop for pottery in Los Angeles. A city not usually associated with clay and sculpture artisans, the traveler who plans arrival dates just right can, indeed, find gorgeous pieces in the City of Angels. -
4 Utah National Parks That Welcome Pets (Sort Of)Bring your dog to the Utah national parks that welcome four-legged companions. While every place has rules about a pet’s proper conduct, several Utah venues actually offer quite a bit of freedom. -
California Lawmaker Proposes Jury Duty for Non-CitizensLegal residents can serve in the armed forces and become judges in California courtrooms. Now the state assembly wants them to also take on the duties of trial jurors, which is a privilege thus far reserved for citizens only.
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California Proposes Soda Tax to Defray Costs of Obesity and Dental DiseaseCalifornians may soon pay an extra one cent per ounce of soda or sweetened ice tea. A lawmaker has decided to pick up the fight and institute this soda tax for the entire state even though a local proposal failed last year in Richmond.
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5 Ways Great Drivers Practice Fatigue ManagementDrowsy driving can kill. You already know that fatigue management is crucial for long road trips as well as the comparatively shorter trip home from work. How can you do it? There are some tips great drivers use to beat the fatigue. -
Why Fiber Supplements Can Cause Problems for CatsThe use of psyllium fiber for cats is a contentious topic of conversation among fanciers and pet lovers. Some swear by the fiber supplements while others are far more cautious in mixing them into the cat’s food. Who is right? -
4 Tips for Using Peppercorns ( and Not Just for Cooking)They are black, white and green. Peppercorns come in powder form and as whole drupes. You know that you can cook with peppercorns, but what else is there to do with them? Would you be surprised to learn that they keep certain insects at bay? -
California Officials Respond to Boston Marathon ExplosionsImmediately following the suspected terror attack during the Boston Marathon, California officials went on heightened alert. What are officials urging the public to do?
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Finding the Right Dog Sweater Patterns Free of ChargeFollow a basic or more intricate dog sweater pattern to keep your canine warm and cozy during cold spells. Did you know that you could even make a dog sweater out of a sock? -
California Powerball Lottery Starts Amidst Administrative Expense RestraintsIf the California Powerball lottery brings more money into the state’s coffers, public schools could see more than 34 percent of sales revenues. With administrative expenses capped, some fear that the Powerball may take away revenues from other lotteries.
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5 Insider Tips for Golfing Dubai like a ProIf a visit to the United Arab Emirates’ Dubai is on the agenda, do not forget to also include a Dubai golf course. There are a few insider tips that will make your experience more enjoyable. Do you know what they are? -
Top 5 Family Friendly Southern California Earth Day Events 2013Visit one of the many Southern California Earth Day celebrations that are currently planned for 2013. Festivities begin as early as April 13 and last through April 27. -
Top 5 Earth Day Events in Los Angeles CountyVisit an art museum, a garden, or a parking lot for Earth Day events, celebrations, and festivities. Some events are perfect for hands-on green activities while others are big parties for all ages. What does L.A. County have to offer in 2013? -
5 Tire Rotation Mysteries ExplainedA tire rotation should be part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance schedule. But is it? There are five good reasons why you should schedule an appointment with a mechanic today or get out the jack and the jack stands -- or risk the consequences. -
Top 4 Desert Golf Courses in the United StatesWhen you golf in the desert, you never go back to the domesticated city courses. At least that is the mantra of hardcore golfers who chase the adrenaline rush as much as they chase the ball. Are you ready to join them on the desert golf courses? -
Bedlington Terrier: Best Puppy Food and Mature Dog Nutrition TipsA unique recessive gene may endanger your Bedlington Terrier’s longevity. Do you know what to feed this lovable breed to keep your show dog or pet healthy?
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California Green Jobs Lag Even as the Technology SoarsCalifornia’s green economy is growing overall, but the number of jobs that are being created is a bit disappointing.
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6 Deadly Mistakes You’re Making While Driving to WorkWhat potentially deadly driving mistakes are you making while commuting to work on a daily basis? Texting while driving? Allowing driving distractions to continue? In fact, some of the mistakes are far more subtle and not always obvious.
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Report: Californians Need a $25.78 Hourly Wage to Afford Two BedroomsCalifornia ranks just behind Hawaii when it comes to renting an apartment. A new report details that a worker would have to make $25.78 an hour just to afford an average two-bedroom apartment in the Golden State.
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California Endangered Species Act Now Covers the Great White SharkThe California Endangered Species Act temporarily protects great white sharks. The big fish that gained a bad reputation in the movie “Jaws” may no longer be hunted or killed in California waters.
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Virtual Immigration March for Innovation Planned for SpringWhile border state politicians are feeling the heat over illegal immigration, the high-tech sector approaches the immigration debate from the viewpoint of qualified entrepreneurs.
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Sequester Cuts Worry California Seniors, Kids and ParksThe looming sequester cuts threaten California’s defense industry. Not quite as frequently discussed are the cuts that would directly affect senior citizens, children and the Golden State’s Park system.
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10 Household Tricks that Call for Used Dryer SheetsCleaning with dryer sheets? Yes! You can clean baseboards with dryer sheets and find another nine spiffy uses for the otherwise trashcan-bound fabric softener sheets.
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Demands Increase that California Cardinal Roger Mahony Skip ConclaveWhile his handling of the sex abuse scandal in the Los Angeles archdiocese reflects badly on Cardinal Roger Mahony, the retired archbishop of Los Angeles nevertheless intends to travel to the Vatican conclave to vote for the next pope.
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6 Things You Can Clean with VodkaCleaning with vodka is not a new idea. Yet as homemade cleaning products go, lemon juice and vinegar tend to steal the show. So what can you clean with vodka?
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4 Advanced Preschool Sorting Activities You Can Do at HomeYou child has outgrown the basic sorting activities you do at home but there is some trouble at the preschool with the more advanced preschool sorting activities. There are four sorting games you can play at home to help him catch up.
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3 Snow Day Activities to Do with ToddlersFrom cardboard mittens and a Winter Wonderland to the setup of an oasis, three snow day activities for kids keep your toddlers busy and entertained. Depending on your level of mess tolerance, there might even be no whining!
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5 Bed Bugs Cleaning Tips You Cannot Afford to MissRemove bed bugs with proper cleaning tips before you reach for a pesticide. While some pesticides do indeed make quick work of these pests, re-infestation occurs if you fail to clean targeted areas of the home.
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Four National Parks Destinations Perfect for SnowshoeingNational parks are not just for summer camping or winter back-country skiing. Instead, snowshoeing is a hobby that is gaining more and more aficionados. Four national parks destinations stand out for beginners and those already advanced.
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A Parent’s Guide to Preschooler StutteringStuttering in children is a worrisome development for any parent. With so many products on the market that promise to stop stuttering immediately, is it possible to help children suffering from this condition?
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How to Pick the Right Educational Toys for ToddlersAre all toddler toys educational? Actually, when it comes to these playthings, marketing to parents frequently takes a front seat to anything that might spur on brain or ability development. Still, you can pick the right educational toys for toddlers.
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Legal and Financial Troubles of California Train Systems ContinueLawsuits and allegations of murky accounting practices plague Metrolink’s existing commuter rail network and California High Speed Rail’s proposed bullet train.
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3 Winter Golf Travel Destinations for Serious PlayersWinter golf is a sport unto itself. Diehard golfers do not fear the snow flurries and insiders actually know that winter golf opens up experiences not usually enjoyed during the balmy spring and summer days. Are you game?
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Still No Sign of a Lifting California GloFish BanWhile California voters narrowly defeated a labeling law of genetically modified organisms in food products, the Golden State keeps the GloFish ban intact based on principle.
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Top 3 Easter Parades Across the United StatesGet out your Easter hats and parade them in style. While Easter parades may be going out of style in plenty of cities, there are some that steadfastly cling to the tradition and plan to put on a great Easter parade this year.
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4 Popular California Easter Activities for KidsEaster games for kids, decorations, beeping egg hunts and tasty treats are just some of the exciting California Easter activities that await young participants this year. Are you ready to see what the Golden State has to offer your family?
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5 Auto Theft Prevention Tips You Can Use TodayDo not leave car theft prevention to chance. There are five ways you can make your vehicle quite unattractive to a potential car thief today. Do you know what they are?
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Controversial California Fire Safety Standards Get an OverhaulPotentially toxic flame retardant chemicals added to upholstered furniture for sale in California may soon be outdated. A change to a 40-year-old rule on upholstery combustion standards may eliminate these controversial additives.
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California Gov. Brown on Texas Gov. Perry’s Ad: “Barely a Fart”In 2011, about 254 California businesses fled the Golden State and opened up in other states. Texas Gov. Rick Perry is now openly wooing California business owners. Gov. Jerry Brown does not think there is a threat to California’s economy.
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Planning Your Trip to Punxsutawney, PAThere is more to Punxsutawney, PA, than just the weather-predicting Punxsutawney groundhog. The area is a perfect destination for travelers looking for year-round outdoor recreation.
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California Becomes SUV and CUV Theft Hot Spot in the NationIn the recent past, California had 12 cities in the top 20 car theft hot spots. The Golden State now also leads the nation when it comes to SUV and CUV thefts.
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CalFresh Food Stamp Program Tries to Grow Amidst Proposed ChangesWhile local politicians are trying to get more Californians enrolled in the CalFresh food stamp program, others are trying to tweak the types of beverages they can purchase. Concurrently, recipients note that the benefits are insufficient.
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4 Dandelion Lawn Treatment Mistakes that Kill Your GrassIs your use of dandelion killer turning the chemicals into a lawn killer? There are four common mistakes when applying dandelion lawn treatments that can lead to brown spots in the lawn -- or worse.
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How to Get a Bad Smell Out of a CarWhat is causing the bad car smell? Did something die in the backseat? Maybe. Learning how to get rid of the smell in your car may unearth a few things you wish you would never lay eyes on. Even so, you should tackle this task today.
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Tough California Gun Laws Do Not Fund Confiscation of Illegal GunsIn spite of having restrictive gun laws, California fails to confiscate guns illegally owned by known felons and those who are not supposed to have them.
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California Must Fix a Broken Public Education SystemWasteful spending, unyielding teachers’ unions and continuously slashed budgets are low-lights of California’s public education system. Is 2013 the year of change?
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California Lawmaker Proposes an Earthquake Early Warning SystemCalifornia may soon get an earthquake early warning system if Senator Alex Padilla can persuade lawmakers to go along with his $80-million proposal.
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Bipartisan Amnesty Blueprint Heavy on Money but Light on TimelinesWill a new class of limbo immigrants be the fallout from the bipartisan blueprint on immigration reform proposed today? There is a good chance that high fees, fines, back taxes and long partisan bickering will create just that.
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California Lawmaker Does Not Want Officials to Kill Mountain LionsIf Senator Jerry Hill of San Mateo is successful, California officials responding to mountain lion sightings in residential areas may soon no longer be able to kill the animals.
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Getting Rid of Whiteflies on PlantsWhiteflies on plants call for drastic control measures. Interestingly, these measures should include insecticides only as last resorts.
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Starting Seeds Indoors Now for a Spring Vegetable GardenStarting from seed is easy when you use the right seeds, buy the best possible germination hardware and watch the daytime temperatures. Is there a secret to successful transplanting of the seedlings? You bet!
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10 Things You Can Clean with Lemon JuiceIs there anything you cannot clean with a paste made of baking soda and lemon juice? As natural home cleaning goes, cleaning with lemons is so efficient that it even gives vinegar a run for the money.
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Cleaning Your Garden Sculptures like a ProBronze or stone, make your garden statues look like new. Even if your cleaning attempts do not yield a factory finish, your sculptures will at least look dignified and gorgeous.
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3 Inexpensive Toys Can Teach Your Baby to CrawlWhat do a pool noodle, infant mirrors and colorful balls have in common? They can help teach your baby to crawl!
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Setting Up a Toddler Gym in Your HomeShould you enroll your toddler in a gym catering to a pint-sized clientele? No! You can set up a toddler gym in your home for a fraction of the cost.
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Latino Workers Boost California Union Membership NumbersWhereas union membership across the nation is down, California union membership soars. Latinos, spats between unions and the evidence of highly favorable union-negotiated working conditions are some of the driving forces behind the trend.
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Basic Solar Landscape Lighting Secrets Professionals Use TodaySolar lighting calls for a bit of preparation and perhaps a pinch of pruning. If installed properly, solar landscape lights reward you with years of trouble-free service -- all without the need for a plug or wires.
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California Home Prices Surge in 2012, Trend to Continue in 2013The trend of surging California home prices is likely to continue in 2013, the experts note. They are cautious, however, when it comes to anticipating just how much California real estate prices will increase this year.
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Spring into Gardening with a Foolproof Vegetable Garden LayoutRelying on a blueprint when planning your vegetable garden layout can turn your brown thumb bright green. Learn how to plan before planting so that your veggies can reward you with bumper crops throughout the year.
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California Republican Party Struggles to Regain Political RelevanceGun control, a freeze on tuition hikes and a budget balanced with the help of tax increases are just some of the issues the California GOP is now supporting in an effort to once again become politically relevant in the Golden State. Is it enough?
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California Education Reform Includes $150 Online College ClassesOnline learning is the cure for increasing college tuition rates and failing students, the administration of California Governor Jerry Brown believes. Unions representing educators cry foul.
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More California Teens Get Tobacco Products, New Statistics ShowSmokeless tobacco products have the potential of becoming a danger to California’s low teen tobacco use rate. In fact, the illegal sale of tobacco products to youngsters recently encountered an uptick.
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The Flu Epidemic Arrives in California and Claims LivesCurrently there are reports of four flu-related deaths in California. Area hospitals see an uptick in the number of patients seeking care for possibly the flu and other repository illnesses.
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Plan Your Golf Vacation to Troon, ScotlandThe Royal Troon is a world-famous championship golf course in Ayrshire. Visitors to Scotland frequently head to other venues and overlook this gorgeous course, which is a mistake you should not make the next time you travel to the United Kingdom.
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California HOV Lanes: Crafty Drivers, Zero-Emission Cars, TollsWhile some California drivers are trying to trick authorities into the solo use of carpool lanes, officials are eying HOV lanes as moneymakers and tools for increasing the number of zero-emission vehicles in the Golden State.
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Give Your Lawn a Manicured Look with Proper EdgingThere is more to edging a lawn than unpacking the power edger. Sure, this tool plays a pivotal role in the process but there are so many other edging tools to consider. Are you hip to giving your landscape a manicured look today?
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Add a 13th School Year for Job and College PreparationCan a 13th school year help prepare today’s high school graduates for state-specific job markets and educational institutions? This author says that this proposal might just be the solution to the problems that face young graduates.
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California Property Crimes Increase: Prison Realignment to Blame?Some California police officials blame increases in property crimes on the prison realignment plan that began in October 2011. Other agencies argue against this connection and claim that these crime statistics were up before then.
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How to Deal with Sibling Rivalry when You Are Not King SolomonIf “it’s not fair” is a battle cry in your household, you are dealing with sibling rivalry. Whether it is brother and sister rivalry or squabbling among siblings of different ages, there are some things you can do end the problems and keep your sanity.
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3 Home Plumbing Tools Every Homeowner Should HaveWhat do a steel pipe wrench, a drain cleaner and a cleaning bladder have in common? They are among the basic home plumbing tools and equipment items every homeowner should have. Do you know why?
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Call for Bipartisanship May Pit Christie Against Clinton in 2016Although a lot can happen between now and the middle of 2015, when campaigns for the 2016 presidential election are likely to kick off in earnest, two possible candidates already mentioned are Republican Chris Christie and Democrat Hillary Clinton.
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Proposed California Homeless Bill of Rights Draws CriticismUrinating in public and panhandling could soon be legally protected, if Tom Ammiano’s Homeless Bill of Rights passes the Sacramento legislature and receives the governor’s signature. Critics are not happy.
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3 Best Cars Under $25,000 for Working Families in 2013What do the 2013 Dodge Dart, Ford Escape and Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid have in common? They are among the best cars under $25,000 for working families in 2013.
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Choosing the Right Electric Lawn Mower for Your YardBuy an electric lawn mower and end your noise and air pollution today. Of course, just because you are ready to step into the current century does not mean you know your way around the product. Here are helpful tips for a first electric mower purchase.
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'Covered California' Health Insurance Market Gets Federal ApprovalCalifornia is on course to set up its own health insurance marketplace -- under Obama Care -- with federal approval. Californians may be able to participate in an open enrollment as early as October.
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Top 5 Southern California Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebrations in 2013Southern California hosts a variety of events that honor the memory and birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Where should locals and visitors go to honor the civil rights hero’s memory?
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Spending Spring Break in Malaga, SpainShould you go for culture or partying when spending spring break in Malaga, Spain? The answer is simple: Enjoy both!
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California Cottage Food Operators Can Now Open for BusinessCalifornians who always wanted to sell homemade food to stores and farmers’ markets now have a chance to do so legally. With the implementation of the California Homemade Food Act, certain types of foods are now legal to make in a home’s kitchen.
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California’s Top 4 Romantic Cottage Getaway DestinationsThere are four must-see California locations for today’s couples in desperate need of romantic weekend getaways. Romantic cottages offer a lot more ambiance than hotel rooms and California’s top destinations do not disappoint.
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9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Chips Away at Executions in CaliforniaLiberal judges of the ninth circuit court of appeals continue to hamper California’s death penalty implementation even after the state’s electorate voted against a ban on the practice.
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Predictions for the 2013 to 2014 California Budget are a Mixed BagThe Affordable Care Act, new Medi-Cal signups and the possibility of going over the federal fiscal cliff all add worries to California’s budget for the 2013 to 2014 year and beyond.
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New Traffic Laws that Affect California Drivers in 2013Come 2013, California drivers may be stopped when transporting irrigation supplies in some areas. License place alterations, CDL licenses, illegal immigrant drivers and HOT lanes also will be governed by new laws.
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Unequal Funding of Indebted California Schools Comes Under ScrutinyLarge outstanding debts, not enough school counselors and a failure to receive a waiver for mandated No Child Left Behind expenditures are some of the problems plenty of California school districts face. How do they receive their funds?
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Restrictive California Gun Laws Could Get Even TougherCalifornia gun sales soar as lawmakers consider tightening the state’s already restrictive gun laws even further.
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Multifaceted Chinese Immigration Methods Come Under ScrutinyImmigrants from China are relying on a number of legal avenues to secure residency and future immigration possibilities into the United States. A recent uncovering of an alleged asylum fraud scheme places all practices under renewed scrutiny.
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Federal Sea Otter Relocation Off California Coast Ends in FailureFailure to set up a new southern sea otter colony on San Nicolas Island may lead to the eventual extinction of California’s sea otter population. Now the federal government has scrapped its 25-year-old translocation plan.
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Prioritize your home improvement projects for next yearDid you know that some home improvement projects net you a 250-percent return on investment? Others are money pits that actually rob your home of value. Which projects should you tackle and which one should you avoid?
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Best Southern California Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies in December 2012Which Southern California Christmas tree lighting ceremonies are can’t-miss events? Which are the most family-friendly for you and the kids? Go where the tree lights shine bright and the atmosphere is great.
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Giant Sperm Whale Watching in Kaikoura, New ZealandKaikoura is a frequently overlooked eco-tourist location for whale lovers. Where should you stay and eat? Who can accompany you on your giant sperm whale encounter?
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California PUC Finalizing Free Cell Phone Service for the PoorCalifornians earning less than $15,000 per year may be able to qualify for free cell phone service. The California Public Utility Commission is finalizing the deal.
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Learn How to Pack for Storage to De-clutter Your HomeLearn how to pack for storage and your household clutter could be history. Even if you do not plan to rent a self-storage unit, packing for storage can make quick work out of the years of accumulated treasures you currently face.
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Packing for Storage when De-Cluttering Your HomePacking for storage -- whether it is a climate-controlled storage unit or your home’s attic or basement -- is a bit of an art. Learn how to pack things just right with insider information from folks at packing and storage locales.
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Taxes Could Cause More Californians to Desert the Golden StateThe State of California lost many of its residents to Texas and other states in 2011. With the passage of Proposition 30, there is concern that even more Californians may flee in 2012 and 2013.
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Independent Report Blasts and Praises California Stem Cell AgencyIndependent evaluators call for amendments to California’s stem cell research law that put the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) on the map. Amidst praise but then also worries about conflicts of interest, there is little movement.
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Low Test Scores and Disagreements Hurt Education in CaliforniaAs California test scores remain low, teachers, administrators and researchers differ in their opinions on what drives them. Who is to blame for low test scores and high school graduation rates?
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5 security and safety mistakes when leaving your home for the holidaysKeep burglars in the dark about your holiday travel plans. Avoid a number of security and safety mistakes that announce your absence to strangers. You already know to stop the mail and newspaper delivery, but what else can you do?
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6 need-to-know 2012 holiday decorating safety tipsMind your safety when decking the halls and hanging holiday lights. Know what to look for when selecting a Christmas tree. Oh, and do not forget that there is one tree-light pairing that should never ever be attempted. Do you know what it is?
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Top 10 Winter Car Maintenance Items for NewbiesMaintain your car with a 10 line item cold weather checklist. New car owners may be surprised to learn that these items are not just one-time tasks but actually part of a daily, weekly or monthly regimen in winter.
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California Must Rediscover Fiscal Responsibility in 2013Washington’s fiscal cliff debate underscores the precarious financial situation the State of California faces. Democratic state lawmakers must take their supermajority status into consideration when dealing with the state’s very own fiscal cliff.
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5 Carpentry Tools Every Homeowner Should HaveCarpentry tools make woodworking a snap. Until you rummage in your standard toolbox that contains only basic tools for home repair, you do not realize what you are missing. Buy the carpenter tools you will likely need -- today -- and avoid frustration.
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Will a Probe of California Oil Refineries Prove Market Manipulation?Did oil companies reap a profit of $25 million per day while California consumers were paying record prices at the pump? Six West Coast senators allege that there may have been “possible market manipulation and false reporting by oil refineries.”
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State of California Collects $900,000 from Sensa ProductsA group of California district attorneys filed and settled a civil lawsuit questioning Sensa’s advertising verbiage. It has resulted in a $900,000 settlement.
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Plastic Recycling in California is Latest Victim of FraudThe money from plastic recycling is attracting thieves to local businesses. Desired items include plastic pallets and crates, which are them turned over to California recycling centers.
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Shopping Rodeo Drive on a Main Street BudgetVisitors to Los Angeles inevitably want to take a trip down Rodeo Drive. Beverly Hills’ shopping mecca is a jaw-dropping experience, yet some California travelers know that there are bargains to be had. Where?
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12 Facts Every Parent Should Know About Playground SafetyWith more than 200,000 annual emergency room visits, the trip to the public playground may be more dangerous than you think. Which piece of playground equipment is the most dangerous? Twelve facts help you keep you children safe on the playground.
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OTS Study: Drugged Driving Surpasses Drunk Driving in CaliforniaWith no drug impairment limits on the books, California officials are at an impasse with respect to drugged driving. Recent driving statistics show that drugs are playing an increasingly bigger role in the lives of California drivers.
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5 Heart-Healthy Cardio Exercises for WomenHeart attack statistics paint a grim picture for women’s heart health. Since it is a leading cause of death, knowing the right types of heart-healthy exercises today might just save your life.Also published on:
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Cologne, Germany: Mall Shopping ParadiseShopping malls abound in Cologne, Germany. That said, there are three venues that stand out. One is actually not even the typical mall such as you might imagine it. Are you curious where the mall rats on the prowl go when visiting Germany’s Cologne?
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Protesting California Walmart Workers Begin Black Friday WalkoutsCalifornia Black Friday shoppers hoping to get in on some door busters Thanksgiving night may encounter protesting Walmart workers instead. Labor organizations are working hard to organize Black Friday walkouts of the non-union Walmart employees.
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Democratic Supermajority Makes California Legislature Veto-ProofCalifornia Governor Jerry Brown will have a difficult time vetoing legislation that the Golden State’s Democrats insist on passing. A supermajority in both houses of the legislature puts these politicians in the driver’s seat of California politics.
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5 Tips for Shopping Department Store Sales with Kids in TowDoes the idea of shopping on Black Friday with your kids leave you quaking in your boots? Take heart, pack snacks and draft your plan of attack on bargains and the stores that offer them. Department store sales shopping with children can actually be fun.
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Pros and cons of exposed-filament vintage light bulbsEdison light bulbs are making a comeback among owners of antique light fixtures. Why do they willingly spend more than $20 on an exposed-filament light bulb and cast environmental worries aside?
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5 unique ways to impress Thanksgiving guestsImpress guests with spiffy new Thanksgiving menu ideas and some simple yard work. Who knew that hosting Thanksgiving is an exercise in cutting edge culinary exploits and gardening?
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Report: Almost a Quarter of Californians Now Live in PovertyNew California poverty statistics show that 23.5 percent of the state’s residents are poor. The cash-strapped state also faces a concurrent cut in safety net and welfare services. What does this mean?
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Teaching your preschooler to count supports future math skillsTeaching kids to count will be as fun and innovative as you make it. While it may sound like a tall order, it is actually laughably simple and straightforward. Five tips get you started on the road to preschool math success.
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Sens. Chuck Schumer and Lindsey Graham Talk Immigration ReformAfter a two-year hiatus, another bipartisan discussion on comprehensive immigration reform is taking shape. What are the details and who is spearheading the effort? More importantly, who is on board with the talks?
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“Too Soon to Be Talking About 2016,” Libertarian Gary Johnson SaysGary Johnson and Jim Gray garnered the Libertarian Party 0.9 percent of the national vote in the 2012 presidential election. Will this trend continue or could there be trouble for a 2016 run for the White House?
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“Election Season Begins Today,” Says Green Party on Nov. 7Winning 0.3 percent of the national vote, Green Party candidates Jill Stein and Cheri Honkala handed this third party an appreciable victory in 2012. What is next for the Greens?
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Planning a Golf Resort Vacation in Oberstaufen, GermanyBavaria is the secret destination for golfers hoping to play the game against the backdrop of Germany’s natural beauty. Oberstaufen in particular is a hotbed for golf travel. Where should you stay? What else is there to do?
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10 Unique NFL StadiumsWhat makes 10 NFL stadiums unique? Is there something outstanding about your hometown stadium that you do not even know about but that makes you the envy of the league? Find out!Also published on:
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Commentary: Voting for Revenge or for Love of Country or for Something Else?Do you vote for revenge? Do you vote out of civic duty? Would you believe that some consider voting an irrational act? In fact, there are a myriad of reasons why Americans vote.
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DIY cabinet sink to pedestal sinkIt is possible to switch from a cabinet-style sink to a pedestal sink without shifting the plumbing. In fact, if you leave the plumbing alone, you can make this switch in about a weekend.
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How to Cheaply Clean Cloudy Headlights Q&AKeeping your car headlights bright is crucial to automotive safety. Rain, fog and darkness make it hazardous to drive and if cloudy headlights minimize visibility, you endanger yourself and others. Cleaning cloudy headlights is easy and cheap.
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6 kitchen organization tips I learned from PinterestDo your whisk and cutlery fight for space? Do you keep buying new spices because the little containers get lost in the vast jumble that is your pantry? Pinterest offers a wealth of kitchen organization tips that are creative, cheap and cute.
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5 Healthy Thanksgiving Tips for Your Child on Turkey DayThere is more to a healthy Thanksgiving than a garden salad and whole grain rolls. Children in particular need help navigating long wait times, sugar overload and the attack of the three-butter-stick baked goods Aunt Edna foists on you. How can you do it?
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How and Why Women Define the 2012 Presidential Election OutcomeDo “lady parts” determine a woman’s vote? Will an uncertain economy and unemployment trump issues like abortion and health care for female voters? How is the female voting bloc defined? Polling data show interesting trends in 2012.
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White Women, Minorities to Decide the 2012 Presidential ElectionAlthough some groups in the United States have worked toward the formation of a colorblind society, race is playing an important part in the 2012 presidential election. Racial tensions and race-based voting bloc characteristics may decide the winner.
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Political Vandalism Stresses Contentious Nature of 2012 ElectionsReports of political vandalism are heating up as Election Day comes closer. Who is victimized, and what are the authorities doing? Is election year 2012 worse than 2008?
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Obama on Immigration Reform: “I’m Fully Committed to Doing That”President Obama promises once again to tackle immigration reform during his first year. Former Governor Romney has promised not to revoke deferred action stays and work permits. What is the status of illegal immigration in the United States?
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Ron Paul and BP Join Fray with Quiet October SurprisesOctober surprises are on the minds of Romney and Obama as both candidates enter the end spurts of their campaigns. Already two vocal parties promise game-changing news. Two less vociferous October surprises may be overlooked.
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Fireplace maintenance must-do'sThe traditional chimney sweep is someone you just don’t see anymore. His replacement uses fancy gadgetry and high-power brushes. Fireplace maintenance and safety are a serious business, and advances in technology call for homeowners to keep up. Are you?
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U.N. Election Monitors to Ensure Minority Access to U.S. PollsThe contentious nature of the 2012 presidential election is leading to accusations of voter fraud by both parties. Now there are United Nations election monitors stepping in to keep watch over some American polling places.
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Libertarian Gary Johnson a Possible Kingmaker in Swing StatesVotes for the Libertarian candidate, Gary Johnson, may hurt the Romney campaign in swing states. Johnson takes this possibility in a stride.
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5 steps to pop-up dinner party successA pop-up dinner party is only as good as the amount of preparation you put into it. That said, a truly great pop-up dinner festivity calls for the choice of a unique location your guests would not anticipate. Cathedral roofs, anyone?
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L.A. City Council Committee OKs City ID Card for Illegal ImmigrantsWith the strong support of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a city council committee has approved the creation of a City Services Card. This new form of identification could be made available to illegal immigrants in L.A.
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Polls Show President Obama Leads in NevadaIn the 2008 election, Barack Obama won the state of Nevada. Registering 55 percent of the vote, USA Today notes that John McCain only garnered 43 percent. Polling now shows that this swing state may once again vote for the Democrat in the race.
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Don’t “Go with the Lesser Evil,” Greens’ Jill Stein Warns ProgressivesThird-party politics rarely make the spotlight in America’s two-party system. The Green Party’s presidential candidate Jill Stein is taking this bull by the horns, urging progressive voters to cast ballots with their conscience.
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10 fun and creative things to do with fall leavesUse fall leaves in easy-to-do craft projects a preschooler or kindergartener can love. Incorporate them into artwork your teen will enjoy doing. Use them on the barbeque or rely on them to keep worms happy. Who knew fallen leaves were so versatile?
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Green Party’s Jill Stein Takes on the Presidential DebatesThe Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein will team up with the Big Bird Bloc to occupy the presidential debates. If she were invited to debate, what would her answers be to some of the questions posed to the candidates?
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How to keep bats out of your attic and wallsOccasionally, bats choose residential attics and spaces between walls as roosts. By the time the homeowner notices the flying mammals, there are frequently larger numbers in residence. Bat-proofing your home keeps out bats and prevents return visits.
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4 Bizarre Vacation Ideas for Family Halloween TravelToday’s Halloween travel takes vacation ideas for families past the customary haunted house tours and ghost walks. There is a funeral museum and even a cemetery waiting to welcome you as a guest. Are you game?
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Dusseldorf, Germany: Fashionista DestinationYou know Bonn, Cologne, and a host of other German cities. Yet did you know that Düsseldorf is an insider tip among European fashionistas in search of a shopping travel destination without equal? Where do they go?
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How to protect your property from coyotesCoyote sightings are becoming a problem for homeowners as more and more of the animals’ habitat is converted into residential space for people. Find out what to do to make your property less attractive to these animals.
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Best NASCAR races to attendWhether you are a hardcore NASCAR fan or a devotee in training, you should add 10 races to your attendance schedule for fun, driver access and an enjoyable party atmosphere.Also published on:
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Make your house a home in 3 easy stepsTurning your house into a home is not very difficult. Unfortunately, far too many of us are too busy to make the effort. Worse yet, some of us have bought into the ads that sell us devices to turn a house into a home. Start doing it right today.
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Guide to home maintenance for every seasonMaintaining a home for maximum safety and personal enjoyment is a series of tasks that never ends. Break down these tasks by season to make them manageable and ensure continuing upkeep of the home in the process.
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5 home inspiration blogs you should be readingLook to my handpicked list of home inspiration blogs to spruce up the homestead tonight. Leave behind the expensive suggestions of DIY home improvement shows and get in touch with budget-friendly blogger advice instead.
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A Homeowner’s Guide to Enjoying Backyard SquirrelsYou enjoy the quick little squirrels in the backyard. Keeping the sight enjoyable -- and your yard from being overrun by the little rodents -- is easier than you think.
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Choosing the Right Smoke DetectorPick the right type of smoke detector to protect yourself and your family. Know the pitfalls of some models and recognize the advantages that others offer.
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Top 4 Oktoberfest Events in CaliforniaOktoberfest events in California offer something for everyone in Big Bear Lake, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. While there are plenty of other cities that celebrate Oktoberfest, California residents and visitors should head to these locales.
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Experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich, GermanyVisit Munich, Germany, to experience the real Oktoberfest. Find out how to get to the Wiesn, what the drinking age is, and when kids are asked to leave.
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Essential Shopping in Paris on a BudgetShopping in Paris on a budget introduces the tourist to the wild and heart-pounding experiences of the flea market culture. Yet if you buy only one thing, no matter the cost, there is one Parisian store you cannot miss.
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7 things homeowners should know about squirrelsThey nest in attic insulation; they chew through the wiring. They are homeowners’ worst nightmares when entering an attic with cheek pouches filled with leaves. They are squirrels.
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Top 3 end-of-summer cleaning tasks for homeownersThe homeowner heading into fall may not be ready to let go of warm summer temperatures, but there are three cleaning tasks that cannot wait any longer. Winter will come; get ready now or be prepared to pay a contractor handsomely.
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Top 5 Home Decorating Mistakes when Using Cheap Home DecorOpportunities for home decorating mistakes abound when you work with cheap home decor. Then again, so do success stories. Know how to go from drab to wow while avoiding the pitfalls in between.
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New California Law Makes Funeral Protests a MisdemeanorInspired by the activities of the Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church, the State of California has adopted the Funeral Privacy Protection Act, which makes funeral picketing a misdemeanor.
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Transitional Kindergarten Law in California Faces Many HurdlesCalifornia’s 2010 Kindergarten Readiness Act orders schools to institute a pre-kindergarten grade in the fall of 2012. Charter schools are exempting themselves from this rule. State budget cuts may further limit the program.
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A Motorist’s Guide to Child Booster Seat RequirementsWould you know when to choose a high back booster seat and when to opt for a standard model? Manufacturers define the booster seat requirements that should govern your use of the item. Now there is help ferreting out the details.
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When Are You Too Old to Drive a Car?Could you be too old to drive a car? While you might think that the task is ingrained in your daily habits, senior citizen driving statistics show that advanced age places you and others at risk. How old is too old?
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5 must-do projects home experts recommend for fallThe end of September marks the beginning of fall. For your home, autumn is the beginning of attacks launched by weather and pests. Following expert advice on the five must-do home and yard maintenance projects can actually save you money.
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Soda Tax Proposition Fight Heats Up in Richmond, Calif.Voters in Richmond, Calif. must decide on a penny-per-ounce sugar-sweetened beverage tax this November. Since Richmond would be the first city in the nation to approve this type of tax, Campaigning is fierce on both sides of the issue.
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5 myths and facts: Non-toxic ways to keep spiders outIf the movie “Arachnophobia” left your skin crawling, you probably dread late summer and early fall. Actually, if you believe that these are the seasons for an arachnid population explosion, you have just bought into a common spider myth.
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4 Surefire Signs Your Child is Too Sick for School TodaySniffles, coughs and nebulous complaints of tummy aches may not deter you from letting your child go to school. Are you right? Four telltale symptoms and conditions tell you when a child is too sick to go to school, preschool or daycare.
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Secrets to a successful dinner partyDinner parties used to be formal affairs with sit-down meals and place cards. Since then, the American dinner party has evolved into a far less stuffy buffet meal. Your successful dinner party can now include friends with children.
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Creative ways to remove stains after a cookout: Coffee, wine, grease, and tomatoesNow is not the time to cry over spilled sauce. Use a few creative ways to remove stains most commonly left behind by guests, and you may just find yourself in the mood for another cookout.
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California Hantavirus Outbreak Occurred in Spite of PrecautionsThe California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirms six cases of recent hantavirus infection. Patients presenting with the disease had visited Yosemite National Park and stayed at or near the Boystown cabins of Curry Village.
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California Prepares for Changing Demands on Its WorkforceCalifornia companies relied on an estimated 282,000 temporary employees in 2010.This trend worries the Center for Labor Research and Education, which notes that temporary workers make lower wages than permanent employees.
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California Governor Announces Public Pension OverhaulCalifornia Gov. Jerry Brown has issued a news release, detailing a tentative pension reform agreement between the Golden State’s legislature and public employee unions.
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Taming the Garden Hose With Style and FunctionalityOne of the most unsightly areas of an otherwise well-kept yard is the space surrounding the spigot. To end this unsightly predicament, gardening outlets have come up with a wide array of hose management solutions.
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Picking the Right Shovel for the Gardening TaskHow many gardeners own only one shovel? While it is true that shovels are naturals at multi-tasking, choosing the right spade for the job ensures a speedy and frustration-free completion of the tasks at hand.
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Giving the Patio Container Garden a MakeoverThe patio container garden is a premier source of organically grown vegetables, when gardening space is limited. Doubling also as butterfly gardens and inner city oases, container gardens are hobbies for any budget and purpose.
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California Real Estate Recovery Provides Fertile Ground for Scams“In California, the land is what’s valuable. The house is just how you monetize it,” a real estate developer told Bloomberg. California’s real estate recovery is good news for qualified homebuyers but it also lays the groundwork for fraud.
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Higher Education Becomes Nevada Campaign Issue for ObamaWhereas the national average score is 21.1, Nevada college entrants score on average 21.3. Affording a higher education is of great concern to voters in this presidential battleground state.
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Host a Labor Day BBQ like a proLabor Day is summer’s last hurrah. If you know a mean barbecue chicken recipe or two, the Labor Day BBQ might be one of your last opportunities for showing it off.
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5 activities to do before summer endsMake a list of things to do before summer ends, even if the first day of school is right around the corner. Are there things to do for the family in your neck of the woods? You bet!
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Understanding “Self-Deportation” in a Partisan Immigration DebateAs reported by the New York Times, GOP candidate Mitt Romney has promised to veto Dream Act legislation and instead favor a self-deportation philosophy. The term is not new but refers to a policy for which there is already some data on the books.
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New Laws May Change Work Conditions for California Farm LaborersThe California legislature is currently working on two bills that would change working conditions for the Golden State’s agricultural employees. As noted by Around the Capitol, these bills are AB 2346 (heat-related illnesses) and AB 1313 (overtime pay).
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Presidential Candidates Grapple with Poverty and Welfare IssuesThe Faith and Freedom Coalition is taking to task the Democratic Party for waging an economic war on women by creating a financial climate “in which women have suffered more, lost more jobs and have higher unemployment."
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3 Northern California Counties Under State Emergency During FiresCalifornia Gov. Jerry Brown had issued a proclamation of state emergency, naming the counties of Plumas, Tehama and Shasta. Local officials had already declared the areas local emergencies due to multiple -- not yet contained -- wildfires.
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Education Becomes Hot-Button Topic for Candidates of All PartiesThe Green Party’s Jill Stein, the Libertarian Party’s Gary Johnson, Republican candidate Mitt Romney and incumbent Democratic President Barack Obama address education during campaign stops across the nation.
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Jill Stein Brings Green New Deal Message to the Twin CitiesA homecoming for the Green Party’s vice-presidential nominee, Cheri Honkala and presidential candidate Dr. Jill Stein are visiting the Twin Cities, the Pioneer Press reports.
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5 Car Facts Auto Buyers Are Likely to IgnoreWill your next car -- new or used -- become a money pit? Does your ride have the reputation of being a widow maker? Why do unsafe and costly-to-repair vehicles nevertheless find buyers? Easy! There are five facts car buyers routinely ignore.
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7 Things Soccer Moms Won’t Tell You About the GameOnce admitted to the inner circle of soccer-playing kindergarteners, I learned that there is a lot more to the game than meets the eye. In fact, there is a lot more to parenting a blossoming soccer player than you might imagine.
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California Lawsuit Claims Smart Parking Meters Caused DiseaseIs it possible for smart parking meters to adversely affect your health? As noted by ABC Radio News, one Santa Monica woman firmly believes so and has filed suit, asking for $1.7 billion in compensation.
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States Clash Over Driver’s Licenses for Deferred Action FilersThe State of California has gone on record stating that it will issue driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants who qualify for consideration of deferred action, the Mercury News reports. The State of Arizona is taking an opposite position.
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California Takes Fight Against Predatory Payday Lenders OnlineThe California Department of Corporations issued a lending alert, warning consumers of unlicensed Internet payday lending outfits that may try to prey on unsuspecting Californians in need of quick cash.
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California Syphilis Cases Spiked by 18 Percent in 2011The California Department of Public Health (CDHP) released its latest sexually transmitted disease (STD) statistics. Cases of syphilis have risen from 2,064 to 2,448 in 2011. Other STDs are on the rise as well.
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Midwest Labor Day Parades and Festivals in Small Town, USAFederally destined to be observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day is summer’s last hoorah. Travelers to America’s Midwest have a wide array of choices when looking to attend fun Labor Day parades and festivals.
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Consumer Watchdog Wants Change to California’s Driverless Car LawConsumer Watchdog issued a news release that detailed its correspondence with the chair of California’s assembly appropriations committee. At issue are privacy protection concerns for drivers using Google’s driverless car technology.
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California Gets Hard Deadline to Show Prison Overcrowding FixAfter the U.S. Supreme Court evaluated California’s prison system, it ordered the Golden State to make substantial changes to ease overcrowding. The state now received a Friday deadline to devise a plan that empties more cells.
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10 Ways to Decorate the Bathroom with Trim and MoldingsDecorative trim is the handywoman’s cure for boring, uninspired ceilings. Trim and moldings make up for windows that are too small and doorways that are inexpertly installed. What are the 10 ways to use trim when it comes time to decorate the bathroom?
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Cleaning and Winterizing Your Above-ground Swimming PoolCleaning above-ground pools is not always quick and simple. If you add winterizing the pool to the mix, there are additional considerations. Are you hip to the ins and outs of the best above-ground pool cleaning regimen?
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WARN Act Problematic for Obama AdministrationThe Department of Defense foresees the potential for cuts totaling $500 billion over the next 10 years. Defense companies are required by the WARN Act to alert employees of potential layoffs; the administration now tells them to hold off.
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California Attorney General Sues “Help Hospitalized Veterans”California Attorney General Kamala Harris issued a press release informing the public that she filed suit against Help Hospitalized Veterans, a charity.
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Travel to the Ends of the Earth: Fisterra, Ushuaia, Verdens EndeWhere is the end of the world? Back in the day when the flat-earth theory reigned supreme, the ends of the earth were known as Ushuaia, Fisterra, and Verdens Ende. Interestingly enough, you still have an opportunity to visit these locales today.