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.

• Pay close attention to local television and radio news stations for National Weather Service updates.
• Have an evacuation plan and kit ready. Evacuation kits should contain such items as a flashlight, medications, first aid kit, emergency contact information, food and water, clothing and rain gear, a camera for taking pictures of damage, copies of important documents and paperwork, a battery-powered radio, and cell phone chargers.
• If the need to evacuate arises, head for higher ground. If floodwaters are in the path, turn around and find another way.
• Be very cautious when it’s dark outside.  This makes it harder to see floodwaters directly in the escape route.
• Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding.  Contact your local insurance agent and request information on flood insurance.

“The most important thing is to keep yourself and your family safe,” states Rainbow International President Rob White.  “Have an emergency escape plan ready and don’t hesitate to act on it.”

For information on Rainbow International and tips on preparing for and dealing with a flood, contact your local Rainbow International. 

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.”

The second large benefit from making our own household products is that they will generally contain fewer harmful chemicals. These chemicals that do-it-yourself products do not have are often carcinogens or toxins that we would prefer not to have in our body. If these benefits seems like something that you are interested in, try some of these at home remedies for household cleaning products.

1. Homemade Air Freshener.
Many people like to keep a spare can of Febreeze in almost every room in their house, but what they do not realize is that aerosol cans are filled with toxins, as well as the Febreeze itself. In order to make your own spray air freshener, you will need three ingredients: an empty spray bottle, vinegar, and the rinds of the fruit you would like your air freshener to smell like (generally citrus fruits work best). Simply put vinegar into the spray bottle along with the fruit rinds and let the mixture sit for several days. After these several days, spray away!

2. Baking soda is your best friend.
Most everyone has baking soda in their homes at all times, but did you know that the contents of that little box can be used for so many things? Simply sprinkle it on surfaces and scrub with a wet sponge. You will be amazed at how much your counter tops, stove tops, and even sinks sparkle!

3. Squeaky clean wood.
A lot of people spend large amounts of money on the liquid wood cleaners that you put in your mop bucket and add water, but there is a much cheaper solution that you already have in your home, and that’s vinegar! Simply add about a half cup of vinegar to a gallon of water and mop your floors as your normally would. This mixture will be safer for your family and kinder to your wallet.

4. Tub and tile cleaner.
Often times cleaning tubs and tile can be a difficult and dirty job. Because of this, people think that harsh chemicals are the only way to combat these grimy surfaces. Instead of using the chemicals, get out these 4 ingredients: 2/3 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup liquid soap, 1/2 cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Be sure to add the vinegar last so it does not react with the baking soda and ruin your mixture. To use this cleaner, simply spread the cleaner wherever you want to clean and scrub off immediately.

If you are looking to help your health and your financials, try making some of these recipes today.

Author Pam Johnson is a nurse who obtained her degree from one of the Top Online Master’s in Nursing Programs in the country. She promotes natural living to all of her patients in the way of diet, exercise, and using ordinary and natural household items for cleaning.

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.

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!

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.

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

Keeping a newborn or infant safe is important for new parents. There are many products that can be used in a baby’s bedroom that can keep them safe and secure. Review a few of the options available that will help keep a baby’s bedroom safe.

Walls and Windows

The walls in a baby’s bedroom are a source of injury if steps are not taken to keep a baby safe. You will need to install safety covers on any outlets that are within reach of an infant. Make sure to cover outlets that are behind a crib. This is important as you move the mattress lower. Window guards will also need to be installed on all your windows. These are designed to cover a window when it is open to prevent a child from climbing and pushing on the screen.

Lighting and Furniture

Floor lamps should not be used in a baby’s room due to tripping hazards from electrical cords. You can easily use a desk lamp that is specifically designed for a nursery. Look for lamps that have a short cord or run on batteries. A zip tie can be used to secure long electrical cords. If you have any furniture using a hinge, then attach hinge guards. These can also be installed on closet doors. Secure the furniture used in a baby’s room with a baby furniture anchor.

Cribs for Baby

New cribs that are made today need to meet safety standards set by the CPSC. If your crib is older than 10 years, then a new crib should be purchased to use in a baby’s room. This will ensure that you have a crib that is meeting current safety standards. You should not use cribs that are handed down even if it is well-made and will save money. The safety of your child needs to be considered first. One thing you should know about old cribs is that drop-side models are not considered safe. New cribs may also have bumpers that can be attached around the perimeter. Most new cribs have the option to convert into a bed when a child gets older.

The Crib Mattress

The mattress used in a baby’s crib needs to have a snug fit and be firm. A firm fit is necessary as a baby should not be able to get trapped between the mattress and the side of the crib. Make sure to leave your crib at the highest mattress setting for a new-born. You have the option to choose a mattress that is made with foam or has springs. The type of mattress to purchase is based on preference. Newer mattresses to use with a crib are made with non-toxic materials. Avoid purchasing a used mattress.

Crib Accessories

Cribs for use in a baby’s room can have many types of accessories. Two types of accessories that can be used with a crib are lamb’s wool pads and cashmere blankets. A lamb’s wool pad is a baby product made for any mattress that provides comfort during the winter and throughout the summer. One reason to use a lamb’s wool pad is because the material resists the growth of bacteria and dust mites. A blanket that is made of cashmere is that it is a breathable material. This means a cashmere blanket can be used in cold and hot weather to keep a baby comfortable.

Toy Boxes

Toy boxes that are purchased today are designed to meet new safety standards. They are designed to be child-safe and use non-toxic materials. If you have an old toy box, then you may want to get a new one that you know is safe for your child. New toy boxes have a cut-out on each side for ventilation and will not have a lock. You can easily convert an old toy box to make it child-safe to save money. Make sure that a toy box used in a baby’s room has a lightweight lid that can be easily opened.

Additional Information

You should also install a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in a baby’s room. This is to ensure there is an extra layer of protection in the event of an emergency. However, you will need to have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in other areas of your home.

This article was supplied by www.naturalmat.co.uk, specialists in organic baby products.

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.