Archive for the ‘Current News’ Category

May
7

Dwyer Group introduces the Women in the Trades Initiative and Scholarship

May 7th, 2013 by Rainbow International

The Dwyer Group introduces the Women in the Trades initiative, focused on providing financial assistance to women entering the service trade industry. This includes home service fields, such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC, appliance repair, home restoration, glass installation and landscaping.

“We have 1,600 franchisees representing our brands worldwide, but fewer than 7% are owned by female sole proprietors and fewer than 4% of our front-line service professionals are women,” said The Dwyer Group CEO and Chairwoman Dina Dwyer-Owens. “We are excited to open this opportunity for women interested in trade professions to further their curiosity, expertise and experience.”

The trade industry has historically been a male-dominated career path. Often, women are unaware of the potential for success and personal fulfillment, which can be achieved by working as a trade technician. Studies have shown that females in the home are often the lead decision-makers when it comes to home maintenance. This inherent familiarity with the target audience gives a female trades expert a unique industry advantage.

“Countless women have lost good jobs and we are now recruiting them as franchisees or as front-line plumbers, electricians, grounds care experts, restoration specialists and appliance, HVAC and glass installation and repair technicians within our seven home service brands,” said Dwyer-Owens. “It makes sense to offer women interested in either changing their career paths or further pursuing their career in these industries the opportunity to become the best of the best through thorough training and education.”

The Women in the Trades Scholarship is open to women 18 and older, interested in pursuing a career in the trades. Qualified candidates who are actively pursuing a degree or certification in a trade are encouraged to apply. Candidates will be evaluated based upon financial need, previous work experience and their passion for their chosen industry. For more information and to apply: http://www.dwyergroup.com/women-in-trades.asp or email WITT@dwyergroup.com.

Apr
22

Rainbow International® Helps Secure Homes of West, TX

April 22nd, 2013 by Rainbow International

Rainbow International, has purchased repair items, including tarps plywood, roofing materials and two-by-fours to aid in recovery efforts.

The supplies will be available to any resident of West, TX in need of home repairs. Rainbow International franchisees and technicians have volunteered their services to aid residents in the boarding and reparation of their homes.

“Our corporate office is based in Waco and many of our employees reside in West. We have accounted for our employees and are working hard to offer our assistance to our neighbors in West,” said Rainbow International President, Rob White. “One of our local Rainbow International franchisees, Ronnie Hurst, is heading efforts to aid in securing the homes of West.”

The supplies donated by Rainbow International are available by contacting Laura at Point West Bank.

Jennifer Wright, an employee of Rainbow International’s parent company, The Dwyer Group, was the recipient of this swift and charitable response.  “We were sitting in a chair by the window at the time of the explosion. My house is about 3,000 feet from the plant. However, my sister-in-law is just up the street from the apartment complex and her roof caved in – they have lost everything.”

“It has been a week of tragedies for our country. Although this disaster happened closer to home, our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected by the horrific events of the week,” states Dina Dwyer-Owens, owner and CEO of The Dwyer Group. “I’m amazed by the outpouring of care and humbled by the overwhelming desire to help from our employees, franchisees, families and friends.  This is a time for doing what we do best, and helping others when they need it the most. And our Code of Values® is leading the way.”

Apr
9

How to Create an Allergy/Asthma-Friendly Environment Through Green Living

April 9th, 2013 by Rainbow International

You’re probably already aware of the many benefits that green living has for the environment. However, you might not often think about the many ways in which this lifestyle can really affect the human body. Consider these points, which posit that green living can actually help people to better deal with asthma and their allergies. It’s an intriguing school of thought, but also extremely beneficial!

Pollution from Cars
For the most serious of asthmatic patients, greeting a burst of pollution from a car might mean a trip to the hospital. Furthermore, seasonal allergens in the air can be increase through interaction with cars. Instead of going for that gas guzzler the next time you buy a car, choose one that is Eco-friendly. These types of cars get more miles per gallon of gas, so you don’t have to worry about polluting the environment quite as much. If you are able to encourage other people to do so too, you can really make a difference.

Organic Foods
People are really starting to question why individuals seem to have higher rates of allergies and asthma than ever before, and some believe that it’s due to genetically modified organisms found in foods or certain types of chemicals often used in the production of foods. By choosing organic foods, you can help eliminate these issues both on a personal level (by treating your body right) and global level (by decreasing demand for GMOs and non-organic food).

Choosing Green Cleaners
As you are spraying a bunch of cleaners around your house, you might think that you are doing a great favor to yourself or the environment. Instead, you are really polluting the very home you live in with unnecessary chemicals. Not only can these chemicals possibly contribute to allergies and asthma, they can be dangerous for your children and pets. Therefore, you should look for environmentally friendly cleaners in your local supermarket or other store to cut back on this risk. Many people actually choose to make their own cleaning supplies out of green ingredients you can buy at any grocery store. Thousands of frugal recipes exist depending on what and where you need to clean.

Alternative Medical Remedies
Another often-cited source of our problems is the chemicals, hormones and other substances that might get pumped into people when they go to the doctor. You should never jump head first into a new medical regimen, but choosing alternative medical remedies might be helpful to you. For example, some feel that exposure to mild allergens can actually help people to get over these allergies better than medicinal methods currently in use to treat allergies. However, it is really important that you avoid using any potentially dangerous methods, especially when it comes to your children. If you find an alternative remedy that sounds like it could be for you, talk to your doctor about it. If it’s a household change, be sure to ask about the effects on any elderly or children you have living with you, who have very different respiratory, immune and digestive systems.

Green living can certainly have a positive effect on the lives of people who suffer from allergies and/pr asthma. However, you can’t always guarantee that these methods will work, and it’s important to pick methods that are right for both you and your family. Think about the big picture when you are deciding what to do in terms of health, nutrition, comfort and finance.

Author Pam Johnson is a nurse who constantly stresses to her patients the importance of a natural lifestyle as a way to increase health, She is a contributing writer for the Associates Degree in Nursing Guide.

Apr
2

Spring Cleaning Starter List

April 2nd, 2013 by Rainbow International

When spring appears, so does the sunshine – and with that often it becomes obvious how unclean your house actually is. The sun filtering in seems to just bounce off the dust and grime.

If you are ready for a spring clean, you may find these tips useful in achieving an immaculate home. Make sure to play some lively, summer music to keep your spirits high.

  • Wash windows by using newspaper instead of paper towel or a cloth that may streak
  • Flip and rotate your mattress to keep wear and tear even on all sides. Now is a good opportunity to vacuum the mattress as well.
  • Wash curtains and wipe down all blinds
  • Pull everything out of your fridge to clean – and don’t forget to toss any condiments that have expired
  • Run the dishwasher through with no dishes to clean out the working parts
  • Dust before you vacuum or wash floors as the particles will settle on the ground
  • Wash all pillows and comforters/quilts to rid them of pollen and dust
  • Disinfect cutting boards and organize all cupboards holding dishes and pots and pan – recycle ones you never use
  • Steam clean all upholstery – if you are renting a machine do your car at the same time!
  • Wash or replace all indoor and outdoor mats
  • Unpack summer clothes and air them out. Use this opportunity to pack up winter clothes, and get rid of what you didn’t wear all season.
  • Pull out both the stove and fridge to vacuum and clean behind
  • Wash and repair all outdoor furniture
  • Clean your garbage disposal by running it with ice cubes and citrus peels inside
  • Make sure to have maintenance done on your air conditioner
  • Clean your mops, brooms and even garbage cans – prevent more mess from being pushed around your home

Once you are finished cleaning – remember to reward yourself with a nice glass of lemonade in your sparkling clean home!

Mar
29

Rainbow International of Northeast Pennsylvania Raises Money for Cancer Awareness Program

March 29th, 2013 by Rainbow International

Rainbow International of Northeast Pennsylvania collected donations for the 10th Anniversary of C.A.S.U.A.L. (Colon Cancer Awareness Saves Unlimited Adult Lives) Day March 21. C.A.S.U.A.L. Day is a program to raise awareness for colon cancer in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the importance of screening and early detection.

“The opportunity to volunteer with this charity came about right after my sister’s father-in-law passed away from cancer complications,” Jodi Miranda of Rainbow International of Northeast Pennsylvania said. “I jumped at the chance to become a part of this charity. I hope to be a part of it for many years to come.”

The shop raised money by selling pins and t-shirts.

For more information about C.A.S.U.A.L. Day, visit www.cancernepa.org or call (570) 941-7984. For more information about cleaning and restoration services, or to schedule an appointment, contact Rainbow International of Northeast Pennsylvania at (570) 965-2255 or visit www.rainbowintl.com/nepa.

Mar
28

Rainbow International® Parent Company, The Dwyer Group, Inc., Announces 2012 Donations in Support of RMHC®

March 28th, 2013 by Rainbow International

For the fourth consecutive year, the franchise companies of The Dwyer Group, Inc. have committed $100,000 to its “Charity of Choice,” Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®).

In addition to donating $100,000 to the Charity in 2012, the companies’ franchises donated more than $150,000 through in-kind donations at Ronald McDonald Houses across North America.

“Being in the home services industry, our brands are a natural fit for RMHC because we can provide the in-kind services their Ronald McDonald Houses need to stay in good working condition,” said Dina Dwyer-Owens, CEO and chairwoman of The Dwyer Group. “We feel this has been the perfect relationship with a charity, and we look forward to another year of helping RMHC provide stability and vital resources to families so they can get and keep their children healthy and happy.”

The Dwyer Group, Inc., is a holding company of the seven franchise businesses Aire Serv®, Glass Doctor®, The Grounds Guys®, Mr. Appliance®, Mr. Electric®, Mr. Rooter® and Rainbow International®.

RMHC was established in memory of McDonald’s founder and franchise icon Ray Kroc, a strong advocate for children, in 1984. The cornerstone program, the Ronald McDonald House®, provides a “home-away-from-home” so families can stay close by their hospitalized child at little or no cost. .

“The families that RMHC supports derive strength from each other, volunteers, staff and corporate donors like The Dwyer Group,” said Timothy Kennedy, Sr. Director of Development, RMHC. “On behalf of the more than 12, 000 children and families we serve every day through RMHC family-centered programs, I thank The Dwyer Group for this amazing commitment to our families.”

Funded by corporate donors and individual support, the charity’s 324 Houses are located in 32 countries around the world.

“The Dwyer Group’s generosity and donation of goods, services and cash will go to support core programs, like the Ronald McDonald House which empowers families while facing the illness of a child,” Kennedy said. “Our programs allow families to focus on what’s most important, their child.”

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1138027#ixzz2O7SFVgQF

Mar
22

World Water Day

March 22nd, 2013 by Rainbow International

Today is World Water Day! World Water Day began in 1993 to promote the importance of fresh water to those who live without it around the world. The event’s purpose is to focus attention on the importance of freshwater and advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

Beginning in 2003, the UN-Water has been responsible for selecting a yearly theme for World Water Day. This year, in reflection of the International Year of Water Cooperation, this day is dedicated to the theme of cooperation around water.

Take a moment today to see how you can get involved in World Water Day! Many communities hold events but even if your town is not, you can work with charities such as Charitywater.org, Givewell.org and Waterforpeople.org.

Mar
21

Six Expert Spring Cleaning Tips for a Tidy, Healthy Home

March 21st, 2013 by Rainbow International

It is spring, but along with the blooming of flowers and warmer weather comes the daunting task of spring cleaning. It’s time to open the windows and tackle those chores with these six tips from Aire Serv®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Appliance®, Mr. Rooter® and Rainbow International®.

Dishwasher
According to Mr. Appliance, a dishwasher can be cleaned using a small brush dipped in hot soapy water. With the brush, clean the grooves in the rubber seal by going around the door of the dishwasher. Then, place a dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a normal cycle.

Refrigerator
Using a hand-held vacuum, remove the dust from coils underneath or on the backside of the fridge. Accumulated dust can cause the motor to overheat and increase the cost of running the appliance.

Sink
To achieve a fresh smelling sink, keep leftover citrus peels. Mr. Rooter recommends putting a cupful of ice cubes as well as citrus peels in the garbage disposal. Turn on cold water and then the disposal for 15 to 30 seconds. Then, turn off the disposal and continue to rinse with hot water for 15 seconds.

Windows
When washing windows, wipe vertically outside and horizontally inside, so any missed areas can quickly be spotted. Glass Doctor, suggests drying the windows as you go with a squeegee or a micro-fiber towel to avoid water spots.

Air Conditioner
Have your central air conditioning system inspected by a HVAC professional, like Aire Serv, before the summer hits. The air conditioner keeps your home cool and it dehumidifies to keep mold from growing inside the walls. Clean or replace air filters monthly to help the AC unit run more efficiently. Remove shrubs, grass and leaves from the condenser coil and within three feet of outside unit.

Rain Gutters
Although often forgotten, rain gutters are important for home defense against storms. According to Rainbow International, water from rain can erode soil around the foundation, splash dirt onto the siding and leak into the basement causing expensive damage.

Utilizing these simple tips in your spring cleaning arsenal can help save you time, frustration and money down the line. Not to mention, you can rest easy in a clean and healthy home.

Mar
20

Watertown, NY Area Insurance Agents Attend Cleaning and Restoration Continuing Education Clas

March 20th, 2013 by Rainbow International

 

Local insurance agents learned about fungal remediation practices and guidelines during continuing education (CE) training by Rainbow International of Watertown, owned by Betty Grandjean, Feb. 27. CE class credits are required every two years for agents to keep their licenses.

The class of 24 was taught by Ron Clawson, Rainbow International System Sales Manager, in conjunction with the Professional Institute of Real Estate Training (PIRT).

“Our presentation is designed to teach attendees about fungus and mold development, and how it affects the repair process and the health of the occupants,” Clawson said.

Clawson gave an overview on what fungus is and how to identify it, provided information on how to reduce the cost of a loss from fungi (mold) contamination that results from water damage, and discussed the latest in regulations and industry standards.

For more information about cleaning and restoration services, or to schedule an appointment, contact Rainbow International of Watertown at (315) 786-7269 or visit www.rainbowintl.com/watertown.

Mar
15

Rainbow International Celebrates Female Business Owners for Women’s History Month – Tammy Kimble Finds Success in a Male-Dominated Industry

March 15th, 2013 by Rainbow International

One hundred years ago, more than 5,000 women marched on Washington, D.C. to bring attention to the gross misrepresentation of women in our society. Today, women are heralded as the leaders of tomorrow in education, business and politics. Rainbow International celebrates March and Women’s History Month by recognizing Tammy Kimble, owner of Rainbow International of Alamance County.

Kimble has been the proud owner of Rainbow International for nearly five years, achieving both personal and professional goals. “I think every business you go into is about how you build it and the relationships you build in the process. Every business is about the communication with customers and how you represent the business. Once you start listening to your customer or client, you’ll connect with them.”

Kimble has worked in multiple areas of business, from owning a carpet cleaning business to owning a daycare center. Kimble is an entrepreneur.

“Tammy is a rising star,” Rainbow International President Rob White said. “No matter the situation, she has risen to the challenge. We are proud to have her on our team.”

Women, like Kimble, who have embraced the opportunities afforded them and overcome the obstacles, are paving the path for future generations of women to proudly walk.

“Something I would share with young ladies trying to find their way in this industry is to take on everything you can,” Kimble said. “Learn. Get in every open door you can. Take everything with you into your next experience.”