Politics – The Obamacare website, which launched on October 1st, has received heavy criticism by lawmakers and in the media due to problems with the application process and some system delays. Officials say there have made numerous upgrades in both software and hardware over the last month, which will allow the site to handle more than 800,000 visitors a day. The White House confirmed that they are ‘on track’ to meet the November 30 deadline to fix the crash prone site but are also saying not to expect a 100 percent glitch-free site. Obama recently said that he’d consider ‘a fix’ to be successful if 80 percent of users are able to navigate the site without a major problem. The Census Bureau reported an estimated 15.4 percent of Americans are uninsured in 2012, down from 15.7 percent in 2011. If the site doesn’t deliver, the fate of his landmark healthcare law could be in jeopardy. If the site does recover, it will go a long way in restoring confidence in the program..
Home -- Oh the weather outside is frightful. The elements can take a major toll on your home as well as your finances at this time of year. Keeping warm should not solely depend on the temperature reading on your thermostat. Home weatherization is a great way to reduce energy costs. Here are 3 easy, inexpensive tips to help get you started.
a. Windows - Some older homes have inefficient windows that promote heat loss and may even produce drafts on windy days. Since replacing windows can be expensive, you can try draping a simple cloth to help insulate larger windows. Also consider purchasing thin plastic sheeting made specifically for windows to help reduce heat loss. The plastic comes in sheets that you can cut to size, adhere using two sided tape and blow-dry to make it smooth and even. This also allows sunlight in during the day while keeping the draft out on cold nights.
b. Weather-stripping -- Be sure to check the doors for drafts and make sure they are properly aligned and closing properly. Remove any old or damaged weather-stripping and make sure all doors seal tightly. Don't forget about interior doors that lead to basements, attics and unused rooms. Also consider using decorative draft guards to keep the cold out
c. Other tips and tricks -- Try running your ceiling fan in reverse. By doing so, the fan pushes warm air near the ceiling down to where you are. Try lowering the thermostat a couple of degrees when you leave the house or go to sleep and turning down the temperature on your water heater. Most are set at 140 degrees F, which is hotter than you will likely ever need. Turn it down 20 degrees and save your water heater some work & yourself 10% off your heating costs
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around the watercooler
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Nikko Murphy