Lifestyle

Advanced home energy assessment: Your first step to energy efficiency, cost savings

Monday, 25 February 2013 12:28

Many people assume that there is little they can do to significantly reduce their energy use and increase the efficiency of their homes. In reality, there are many things that typical residents can do themselves and many other things they can hire others to do. Before embarking on home energy improvements, especially large projects, the Minnesota Department of Commerce strongly recommends having an advanced home energy assessment, or home energy audit.

The greening of...McDonald's?

Thursday, 21 February 2013 12:46 EarthTalk® E - The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: Has the McDonald's restaurant chain made significant improvements in recent years with regard to the environment? -- Max Andria, Laval University, Quebec

Saving energy and money with home automation

Tuesday, 12 February 2013 11:29 EarthTalk® E - The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: I understand that there are many kinds of automatic features that can be incorporated into a home—even some that can be operated remotely—that can save energy and provide other environmental benefits. Can you enlighten? -- Robert Goodman, Taos, NM

SOUL FOOD MN | Golden Thyme Coffee & Cafe: Where delicious food is a family affair

Friday, 08 February 2013 14:36 CHEO SMITH, TC DAILY PLANET

Mychael and Stephanie Wright, husband and wife co-owners of Golden Thyme, started up their cafe and coffee shop 13 years ago this March, first serving only coffee and pastries. Before long, people were asking for food to go along with their jazz-legend-themed coffee drinks—and the Wrights delivered.

Yummy baking ideas

Friday, 01 February 2013 14:34

(StatePoint) When baking for your family, there’s no better way to please everyone than by highlighting every crowd’s favorite flavor -- vanilla. From vanilla cupcakes to cheesecake, you can update the classics with a fresh, bold twist.

Pets exposed more than humans

Tuesday, 29 January 2013 18:45 EarthTalk®, E - The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: What are some tips for keeping my dogs and cats healthy?
-- Kim Newfield, via e-mail

Saving energy with white roofs

Sunday, 20 January 2013 23:07 EarthTalk®, E - The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: I've heard that simply painting your roof white can reduce household electricity bills by 40 percent. Is this something any of us can do? -- Susan Pierson, Sumter, SC