Repairing vs. Replacing Your AC

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Summertime is in full swing, and that means your air conditioner is probably going full throttle — that is, unless it's not working correctly. Before you start searching "AC repair near me" though, it is important to consider whether you truly need repair, or whether your home would benefit from an entirely new unit.

 How Old Is Your Air Conditioner?

The first thing you should consider when working through the "repair vs. replace" debate is the gave of your HVAC unit. Of course, there is no steadfast age that makes a unit too old to repair, which is why some experts use a dollar amount instead. To determine if your air conditioner is too old to repair, consider its age as well as how much the repair cost is. Multiply them, and if the number is more than $5,000, consider replacement instead. For example, a 10-year-old unit that is going to cost $500 to repair will equal to exactly $5,000, so it may be best to replace it instead. However, a 5-year-old unit at $350 will only multiply to $1,750, so it is fine to repair.

Is Your Current Unit Energy-Efficient?

Energy efficiency matters as well. Even if your HVAC unit is technically repairable, it could still be costing you hundreds of dollars each year if it lacks any energy efficiency. Energy Star recommends purchasing an energy-efficient unit if your current unit is 10 years old or older, and even HVAC technicians recommend replacement after 15 years. The average lifespan of a unit is 14 years, so if yours is on the brink of old age, now is the time to purchase something more efficient.

Whether you decide to hire someone to repair your current unit or replace it with a brand new, energy-efficient model, it is important to hire technicians who are licensed, certified, and insured. This not only saves you money but ensures the safety of you and your property since HVAC work requires being around dangerous electrical or gas components.

LeBlanc Hotel and Resort: Great Choice for a Family Staycation

My sister celebrated her 50th birthday by booking a staycation for the entire family at a hotel in the outskirts of the city.

We checked in at the LeBlanc Hotel and Resort, USA. Nope, not United States of America, but "Upper Side of Antipolo." It took us about an hour to drive from our home in Quezon City to get to the place.

The hotel is nestled in the hills of Antipolo, Rizal. We arrived there at around 3 pm and waited for 20 minutes in the car until we were ushered in. Upon entering, I noticed the hotel was clean and the staff was friendly. 

We stayed in twin deluxe rooms on the 3rd floor. It was rather small, but it was clean and the beds were really comfy. It had a mid-size TV, a small desk/dresser, a closet with a safe, and toilet and bath with a hot/cold shower enclosure.

The floor to ceiling window of the rooms offered a great view of the pool.  Once we were settled in our rooms, the kids started changing into their swim wear and could not wait to get into the pool. I can't blame them. Summers in the Philippines can be brutally hot and humid.

The hotel's pool is not big, but the size was ample enough for the kids to swim and play, and for adults to just soak the heat away. The poolside staff was readily available to provide towels, and take your orders for food or refreshments from the Bistro.

We had dinner at The Bistro, located on the ground floor of the hotel. The dining area was nice and clean. The food was okay. Our tummies were happy.

This hotel also has function rooms for events and corporate meetings, and a rooftop area for weddings or private parties.

To summarize, the LeBlanc Hotel is a perfect family getaway not too far from home. Great for weekend staycations to celebrate special occasions. It is also a nice hotel to book a stay if you simply want to unplug and unwind.

How to Choose a Valve Lock System

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When it’s time to perform maintenance or repairs on a pressurized valve, it’s necessary to shut off whatever material is in inside. Valve locks perform this critical role, one which can prevent potentially harmful accidents. But before you install one, it’s important to know that valve locks are not one-size-fits-all. There are several different types which are engineered for specific valves.

It’s more likely than not that your valve is one of the three most common: Ball valves, butterfly valves, or gate valves. Here’s how their corresponding valve lock systems work:

Ball Valve Locks

Ball valve lock systems combine an outside handle with an interior ball to control flow through the valve. You simply shift the handle to the off position to do so. They typically range from one half to eight inches in diameter and will work on a wide variety of pipes, including ones constructed of stainless steel, brass, bronze, chrome, titanium, PVC, CPVC and others.

Butterfly Valve Locks

Butterfly valves themselves are discs positioned in the center of a pipe. When given a quarter turn, they control flow. They are generally cheaper than ball valves because of their lighter weight. Butterfly valve locks, like ball valve locks, can be used on different sizes of pipes, but have a more limited range of 2.5 to 4 inches in diameter.

Gate Valve Locks

Gate valve locks work by blocking access to valve handles. They are thermoplastic covers in the shape of half circles. After they’re installed, a padlock or hasp can be used to secure them in place. Gate valve locks are mostly used with larger pipe diameters (from 2" to the largest pipelines).

Valve lock systems have a wide range of applications: manufacturing, mining, utilities, municipal service, and oil and gas. But before choosing one, always make sure it is the right fit for the valve you need to shut off.

Understanding Court-Ordered Anger Management Courses

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It is difficult to admit that you have a problem with anger. Many people don't recognize issues with their reactions and actions toward others, and even some of those that do, deny such a problem exists either out of shame or embarrassment. However, when these feelings escalate to the point of court appeals and mandates, then perhaps it is time to recollect and engage with the process that has led to such a result. Therefore, if ordered to seek counseling or anger management classes, seize it as an opportunity for self-renewal and reflection, and try to use the tools taught there to have greater control and improved relationships.

Mandatory Classes

While a judge will probably specify a certain number of hours for the court ordered anger management classes, know that you can continue going if the lessons are helping. Most classes are in person and require signatures from the instructors to prove your enrollment and participation. However, a judge or an order may allow for online courses in certain situations, which may ease some anxiety. The class type mandated typically depends on the severity of the accusation or assault. Anger that results in violence and injury usually requires a more intensive in-person program, whereas an emotional outburst that did not result in serious injury or harm may only require a certificate of completion from an online provider.  

Course Lessons

While the online and in-person courses vary in length and design, anger management classes teach a variation of the same topics: emotional and physical signs and triggers. Some emotional signs you are getting angry are feeling internal tension like you can't say what you want or that you want to yell. Physical symptoms of anger may appear through a clenched jaw, tightness in your back, poor sleep or a racing heartbeat. While courses spend some time exploring signs and symptoms of anger, they typically dive deeper into discovering your emotional stressors or triggers to help you combat them.

You may not want to take court-ordered classes. However, consider them an opportunity to heal. Find approved anger-management classes and start your recovery. 

Understanding Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

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For individuals to successfully navigate through society, sound finances play a significant role. With many people unable to support themselves with savings or investments, remaining current with any outstanding debts is essential. However, there will always be extenuating circumstances which arise in life and require unplanned expenditures. If these types of situations occur frequently, you will likely have to consider filing for bankruptcy. Making this type of decision is undoubtedly nerve-racking, but there are quite a few options for you to take. Bankruptcies happen across the country, and this is undoubtedly the case for Orlando, FL. If you live in this area and are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, consult with a chapter 13 lawyer Orlando Fl.

Determining Eligibility for Chapter 13

With there being so many types of bankruptcy to claim, it is essential to understand which form applies to you. If you are interested in filing chapter 13, then your unsecured debts must be lower than $349,725 to proceed with this filing. There are also laws about secured debts, also which a chapter 13 lawyer would be able to explain in detail. A court of law will also determine your eligibility based on any recent filings made under your legal name. If 180 days have not passed since a recent filing was cut short due to negligence, you would not be eligible for chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Understanding the Process

There is a lot of documentation that a bankruptcy court will require for this process to move along. Most people do not have a schedule of assets and liabilities on-hand for personal property and the accompanying valuations. All of this information must be accurate to the best of your ability, and an attorney can assist with this process. Filing for bankruptcy is not easy, but seeking legal counsel can help aid in this burdensome task.

Tips for Planning a College Spring Festival

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Although college is a learning environment, it is also a place of community. With that, comes a need for socialization. Why not celebrate springtime? The sun is finally shining, providing some much-desired vitamin D. Kick off the season with a good old-fashioned festival. Young adults, after all, need enjoyment just like little kids, and (let's face it) college is not just about academics. It's also about having fun. Here are a few tips to make the most of the event.

Get Help

Planning a large scale event takes time and coordination. Consider hiring a college event planner. This could relieve some of the pressure, and it might offer some discounts from vendors. This person brings experience to the table that might present some new ideas and exciting concepts. Also, don't take it all on yourself. Ask campus organizations to sign up and work on a committee or sponsor booths. Let them get creative with activities appropriate for the campus and student body. Getting others involved provides a personal investment and pride. It might also make your job a little bit easier.

Think Variety

Remember that people have different interests so you'll want to provide options. For example, festivals usually include silly booths and inflatables. Select a range of activities. Some a little tame, and some more adventurous. Music keeps events lively, so consider a DJ or a band. Don't worry so much about genre. Just ensure it's upbeat. Lastly, don't forget the food. Festivals have your traditional fare: cotton candy and popcorn. Rent some machines to have large quantities. Think of offering those for free as a perk to those who attend. With food trucks readily available, arrange for some to provide additional choices. You'll save set up and time by using their menu and supplies.

Enjoy the day. Many people want to return to those carefree childhood days. A spring festival offers a chance to relive the fun and memories.

What’s Likely To Influence Your Attitude To The Road?

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Do you even really know what influences your attitude when you’re on the road? Do you know how to stay in control on the road? Let’s take a look at some of the things that may influence your attitude when you’re on the road.

Your Mood

First of all, one of the biggest influences that may significantly influence your attitude to the road and driving in general, is your own mood! If you’re in a bad or negative frame of mind, it can make you perform differently, and react different on the road. And so you need to bear that in mind and aim to control it.

Other People

Now, another thing that can often largely influence how you are on the road, is other people! It’s not always your own attitude or outlook on that day. Sometimes, the actions of others can really influence you. But if you want to make sure that you’re able to stay safe on the road, stay sane, and also avoid confrontation too, you have to be weary of those.

The Facts

Finally, something that you may not know much about, is the facts of the road. And here, we’re talking more about the negative side of things, as unfortunately there are lots of traffic collisions as you can see in the infographic below. Sometimes, when you know more about the statistics surrounding road issues, alcohol, drugs, and fatigue, you’ll often be much more wary of your own actions on the road.

Infographic Design By Canada car accident statistics

Home Tech Innovations Which Are Worth The Spend

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Technology and homes go hand in hand, and the latest solutions are so smart they can do everything from keeping your home tidier and more secure to saving you money on the household bills, enhancing your lifestyle and increasing the value of your property. All we need now is a flying car in the driveway and we really will have arrived in the future we were promised as kids. Of course, as with all home gadgets, there are some which are a great idea and others which aren't worth the spend. Here's a run down of the latest tech additions it could be worthwhile investing in… 

A Smart Doorbell

Knowing who is at the front door before you answer - whether you're home or not - is incredibly useful. Not only can you keep tabs on that delivery that arrives when you pop out, but you can also avoid that sales call you didn't want to be in for. Plus, you can ensure better security for your property when you go away. Smart doorbells from companies like Nest feature a HD video stream using your home WiFi so you can check exactly who is there. There's also an in-built microphone and speaker so that you can communicate with any visitors - even if you're far away from home. 

A Soothing Soak

If you're into relaxing in the bathtub with a glass of wine after a long, hard day, then you may want to get on board with the new wave of technology coming to a bathroom near you. The Archer VibrAcoustic bath harnesses the power of technology to make that bathing experience even better. Housing a Bluetooth speaker and made of acoustic materials, the idea is that you can play your favorite relaxing Spotify playlist while you soak in the tub and feel every note in three dimension with music waves rippling through the water. As well as accessing your own music library, the bath has several soothing pre-programmed mixes to add something a little extra to your bath! 

An Entertaining Experience

If you're in the mood to treat yourself, and add value to your home, Home Theater Installation could be a path to consider. Movie aficionados will relish being able to dodge the queues at the cinema, re-watch the classics at their leisure or even do proper justice to those epic Netflix picks with a big screen and surround sound. With custom smart technology, you could queue up that movie, dim the lights and have a chilled beer waiting all by the time you pull up in the drive. 

No More Mowing

If you have a lawn in your garden, then you'll know what a pain it is to maintain around this time of year, when it seems to grow faster than you can cut it! Bring the power of robots to the job with the Worx automatic lawn mower. Similar to the famous Roomba vacuuming robot, this little guy has a clever shock sensor system which can detect and mow around obstacles and automatically returns to it's base if the battery gets low to recharge or it senses rain. Everyone's least favorite chore just got a hell of a lot easier. 

A Letter To The Unknown Japanese Soldier Who Killed My Grandfather

Dear Unknown Japanese Soldier,

I know, it has been about 75 years since that day. Long time, huh? Well, I don't know if you are still alive, but I just wanted to let you know about a few things.

You were the one who shot and killed my grandfather. A man I never had the chance to meet. Were you also the one who pushed his body into that deep well along with countless other men and women you massacred? 

Did you know that the man you killed had a pregnant wife at home and 4 young daughters all under the age of 10 who were too young to understand why there was a war?

Did you know that my grandfather had a very good singing voice and was the lead singer in the church choir?

What did he do to hurt you? All those men and women you rounded up in the town plaza, giving them false hopes of peace and free rice? And what did you do? You mercilessly gunned them all down. Why?

My grandfather worked hard to raise his daughters, hoping to give them a bright future. With your bullet, you put an end to his dreams.

My poor grandfather did not live long enough to even see his youngest daughter. You robbed my mother and my aunts the chance to grow up with a father to guide and protect them. 

Don't you have a father yourself? How much hate did you have in your heart when you did this? I cannot understand your lust of bloodshed. What made you so evil? I want to know. But it is too late now. Way too late to know the truth.

We only have one photo of my grandfather. 

ONE. 

In the photo, he was tall, dark complexioned, with black wavy hair and beautiful deep set eyes. I wish I met him. I wish I got to know him. But all I have is that one photo. And his name, Casiano. 

He missed seeing his 5 daughters graduate from college. He missed walking them down the aisle when they got married. He missed getting to know all his 13 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren (plus one great-greatgrandson)

My grandfather's 13 out of a total of 18 great grandchildren.
(13 girls and 5 boys. Missing 3 other girls and 2 other boys not in the photo)

We can no longer change the past. The war is now etched in my country's history. I can only pray that that would be the last war, and the last foreign invasion that would come to our shores. 

So to you, Unknown Japanese Soldier, I hope you were given the time to repent for the atrocities you committed. I hope you at least felt sorry for all that you did. 

And despite all the hurt you caused my grandmother, my mother and my aunts, I want you to know... 

I forgive you.

Four Tricks For A Luxury Kitchen Redesign

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The kitchen truly is the hub of the house - it's where people tend to congregate and socialise, where we entertain our friends, visit with our family and talk to our children. So it's little wonder that making an investment into this room can enhance your life and make your property much more saleable. If you're looking to achieve an elegant redesign that look luxurious, the trick is to combine practical innovations with beautiful finishes to get that high-end appearance. These tips will show you some of the best ways to get the look… 

Let There Be Light

Immaculate lighting design for your kitchen is something that often gets overlooked, or only addressed as an afterthought, when it's actually quite fundamental. A kitchen is a unique space because it demands a mix of functional, task lighting and more relaxed mood enhancing lights for dining and entertaining. Your lighting scheme could include a mix of LED spotlights in the main body of the kitchen, a hanging pendant light over an island unit or peninsula, and then downlighters or a dramatic cluster light over the dining area - you could even add a dimmer switch for ultimate mood lighting control. 

Get Classy With Countertops

If your mission is to give your kitchen that high end look, then one area where you don't want to cut corners is on beautiful quality countertops and splashbacks. Installing something like Quartz Countertops gives a sleek and durable finish that instantly makes your kitchen look upscale. If you're trying to make the case for a luxury look on a budget, then it's better to spend more on the countertops and try to make savings on the units of the kitchen and the appliances by sourcing them separately online rather than purchasing at inflated kitchen showroom prices. 

Luxe Up The Details

Steering away from basic handles in favour of something more unique and luxurious can really make your kitchen standout. Unusual finishes such as brass, copper or leather can totally elevate a more basic design and make it look expensive. You can also add to the look by choosing sockets, switches and taps in more stand-out materials - this can add a lot of sophistication to the look of the room in a subtle way. Don't discount the impact a beautiful extractor hood can have as well - they are highly functional items but they can also be very decorative and add to the overall look in their way. 

Create A Standout Feature 

Every elevated design features a talking point which makes a lasting impact, so think about what would make sense for your home. If you're a wine lover, a beautiful alcove filled with honeycomb wine holders can make an arresting sight. If you have small kids, painting a wall with chalkboard paint and allowing them to make colourful scribbles - or noting down quotes that make you smile or even your shopping list - injects a little personality into proceedings. For others it could be beautifully designed furniture or a standout piece of art. Just make sure there is one element that draws focus in the mix.