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STILLWATER, Okla. – More than 100 years of science-based, community service by Oklahoma State University Extension will continue unabated through the challenges presented by the novel coronavirus pandemic, Associate Vice President for OSU Extension Damona Doye said.
Read moreThink you know everything there is to know about your favorite furry, finned or feathered friend? Chances are there are some interesting facts that even the most ardent animal-lover may be surprised to learn.
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Gardening can be an enjoyable activity for adults and children alike. Gardening encourages creative thinking and can make for an eco-friendly activity as well.
Read moreFresh peaches make this recipe for “Peach Bruschetta with Blue Cheese” from Christopher Hirsheimer’s “The San Francisco Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market Cookbook” (Chronicle Books) something to savor. The dish also works as an appetizer and can be made with nectarines.
Read moreKids need to be outside to be healthy. They need exercise and sunshine, so having your kids in the yard, having your kids bicycling around the block, taking them for a hike, all of that is safe- you just want to try to keep a distance of six feet between yourselves and other family groups.
Read moreHow would you like your home to be built with wind impact-resistance up to 250 miles per hour? Inquiries for this option are increasing on a daily basis, says Nudura, a leading name in the production of insulated concrete forms (ICFs). Construction goes like this: the standard wood framing is replaced by an interlocking, reinforced concrete system, proven now for more than a decade to solve several issues of homeowner concern. The concrete envelope delivers superior wind, fire and flood safety, is far more energy efficient and is less wasteful of natural resources. More specifically, as compared to wood, the strength and insulation of ICF walls can save you up to 50 percent on energy bills. Homeowners get a fire protection rating up to four hours and an unprecedented sound barrier to outside noise, plus additional interior comforts such as even temperatures, no drafts and mold control for cleaner air. Builders say that with an interlocking system, the assembly is quicker, it creates less waste, and by leaving more trees in the forests, with lowered energy consumption, homeowners will be making an on-going contribution to the sustain ability of the planet. An ICF home (nudura.com) allows for all of the interior beauty shapes like arches, bay windows and decorative doors - and outside, the house can be bricked or you can opt for an eye-catching creative finish like stone, stucco, or wood siding. The decision to build with ICFs must be made early in the construction process to ensure replacement of the standard method.
Read moreWarmer days are here and what better way to spend them than . cleaning? Although enjoying the great outdoors is probably high on many a to-do list come spring, by the end of winter, homes can probably do with a much-needed overhaul. Owners and renters can rely on temperate days to throw open the windows and engage in some easy spring-cleaning projects. The earlier one begins spring cleaning, the more quickly he or she will be able to head outside and bask in the warm spring sun.
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A beautiful lawn is a goal for many homeowners. Some homeowners may find that lovely lawns may last momentarily, only to disappear when damage - be it pest-, weather- or child-related - sets in.
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