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June 21, 2006
News, Events and Tips
by Jack Lee
Tips to improve performance and mileage...
CATALYTIC CONVERTERS - Is the family car losing performance and gas mileage dropping? The likely culprit is the catalytic converter on cars with 80,000 or more miles on the odometer. When it plugs, you have to replace it, they can't be cleaned. Replacement runs about $100 for the part and about $70 to $100 for labor.
AIR FILTER - A clogged air filter can reduce gas mileage by over 10%. Most filters are required to be replaced about every 5000 depending on your type of driving - cost is usually under $15. New technology says you can replace the paper filter with a lifetime filter that requires only a simply washing with soap and water. They provide better filtration and improved gas mileage over a standard replacement filter, typical cost is under $35.
TIRE AIR PRESSURE - A change in seasons demands you check that tire air pressure! An under inflated tire can lead to tire fatigue and a blow out at high speed. Over inflation shortens the life of a tire. While you are down, look at the tread wear. If you see uneven tread wear, it's time for an alignment. Rotate tires every 5000 miles to maximize tire wear.
For more information on fuel saving tips, try this government website.
Health tips...
COLA'S - Did you hear about the latest AMA study on cola drinks? Turns out their is a significant link between cola drinks and hypertension (high blood pressure). This comes as surprise to researchers as the ingredients in diet or regular cola drinks has never been associated with causing hypertension. The effects of colas were most dramatic in women. Further study is ongoing to determine why colas raise your BP. If you suffer from high blood pressure, you might consider switching to a non-cola soft drink, couldn't hurt.
DRINK WATER - One of the biggest dangers in a heat wave like we're having now, is the increased risk of dehydration. This is the loss of water from the body, and with it important blood salts like potassium and sodium which play a vital role in the function of organs such as the kidneys, brain and heart. Ok, then you might think a cold beer would hit the spot, but it's reqally counter productive. Beer will dry you out more because of the alcohol. The AMA suggests you drink 1/2 glass of water about every 30 minutes in really hot weather (over 100) while you are working. The average person needs at least 8 glasses of water a day or 1 ounce of water for every 2 lbs of weight. If urine is dark in color, this is a sign that you need more water. This tip can save your life.
FREE MONEY - Government agencies are holding tens of billions of dollars in unclaimed funds. Last year alone, states collected $22.8 billion in missing money and unclaimed property, of which less than $1 billion was claimed by owners or rightful heirs. Assets are considered unclaimed when contact with the owner is lost - typically due to a name change after marriage or divorce, an unreported change of address or expired postal forwarding order, incomplete or illegible records, and clerical errors. Check with the State Treasurer's Office to see if they are holding money for you! Here is a helpful link.
Home tips....
ROOFING - Want to extend the life of your roof? Use light colored composition shingles in hot climates. Darker colors may look good, but they retain more of the summer heat and this causes premature aging in comp shingles. It can also increase your cooling bill.
GARDENING - It's gardening time...for a helpful website try these.
the Helpful Gardenerhttp://www.helpfulgardener.com/
Special events....
44th Annual Industrial EVENTS -BBQ"Celebrating Business in Chico"
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Veterans Appreciation breakfast at the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church on East Avenue (near the 7-11) between North and Ceres, this Saturday 8 am - 12 pm. Master of ceremonies will be KPAY's Bruce Sessions. Military vehicles will be on display.
Posted by Post Scripts at June 21, 2006 08:35 AM