Garden Water Conservation

It’s gardening season in the Tri-Valley, but with drought still gripping most of California, water usage is a growing concern. Even if conditions aren’t dry at the moment, it’s a good idea to think about how you use this precious natural resource — and how you can use it more wisely. Here are five great…

Boating Season is Here – Are You Up to Speed on Safety?

With spring in full bloom and summer just on the horizon, prime boating season is upon us. And you might notice more people on the water than ever, because sales of recreational boats have been growing at a steady clip for seven consecutive years now, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Fortunately, the number…

Hot Day Behind the Wheel? Here’s How to Beat the Heat

The forecast in Livermore: Hot and getting hotter. And, that can make for troublesome travel. When the temperature increases, decrease your risk on – and off – the road with these safety tips: Check those tires. You’re already checking your tire pressure every month, right? Even if you are (most of us don’t), keep a…

6 Tips to Keep You Swimming Safely

When the temperature heats up in the Tri-Valley, all you can think about is cooling off at the local pool or even at {name of nearby lake, river or bay that people frequent for swimming}. Just remember: Where there’s water, there’s risk. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t jump in (carefully) and have some fun with…

6 Safety Tips for Amusement Park Fun

The kids are itching to go someplace exciting for {season/event, i.e. spring break, summer, vacation} in {city, state or region}, and nothing fits the bill like an amusement park – a classic staple of American fun. However, unless you take some safety precautions, an amusement park or water park can also be stressful or even…

Tying the Knot? Tie up Loose Ends With Wedding Insurance

Getting married is a big step that you’re no doubt commemorating with a big celebration. And, that often comes with a (fairly) big price tag. So, have you considered insuring the whole to-do? As with other sizeable investments, you can insure big events, such as your wedding. But, that’s not the only way insurance can…

Beat the Heat — and Your Air Conditioning Bill — This Summer

Did you know that, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Americans spend about $11 billion each year on air conditioning? That might not be such a surprise if you’re the one who writes the check for your household energy bill every month. Believe it or not, you can spend less on cooling costs…

Clean Your Way to a Longer-Lasting Car

Motor vehicle corrosion is a billion-dollar problem in the United States, according to the Federal Highway Administration. And, no wonder. Road salt, tree sap, mud, pollution and even dead bugs and bird poop all contribute to a year-round assault on your vehicle here in Livermore, potentially leading to serious damage and pre-mature aging. Safety is…

7 Facts About Teachers that Might Surprise You

 “What really makes a teacher is love … for it is love that transforms the social duty of the educator into the higher consciousness of a mission.” Almost everyone has a story about a teacher who inspired them—the one who made learning fun, ignited a passion for a specific topic, or even pushed students hard…

Buying a Car for Your Grad? Here’s What to Keep in Mind

So, you’ve decided to reward your graduate with a car (or help him/her purchase one, at least). That’s great! Adding a car to the family can make life easier for everyone — as long as it’s the right car. Now, how do you figure out which car is the right car? Whether you’re shopping for…