Staff Reporter

Wildfire smoke spreads as state issues tips to protect residents

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

New Mexico wildfires have prompted the New Mexico Department of Health to issue some precautionary air quality advice.

The Hermit’s Peak Fire, McBride Fire, Nogal Canyon Fire, and have forced evacuations and created smoke-induced air quality concerns as New Mexico’s wildfire season has exploded.

The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) and the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) urge the public to consider current air quality safety and preparation this week, in response to the wildfires.

“Air quality conditions exist that may be harmful to the health of at-risk populations and can create unsafe driving conditions in areas directly impacted by the fires,” said David R. Scrase, M.D. Acting Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Health, in a statement. “Smoke exposure can aggravate conditions such as asthma, a chronic lung disease or cardiovascular disease.”

While the air quality is good now in the Rio Rancho area, health specialists urge residents to be diligent and monitor air quality. Any number of factors could affect the area air quality including high winds and growing wildfires. There is always the possibility that a wildfire could erupt closer to Rio Rancho.

Health department spokeswoman Jodi McGinnis-Porter said residents should check the air quality map by clicking on the ‘current air quality’ above for guidance “and follow the tips in the news release.”

Based on current information from air quality monitoring systems, the weather conditions have pushed smoke from the ground to higher elevations, creating visibly hazy conditions that are compounded by blowing dust, the statement says.

Here are a few ways steps to take:

Healthcare facilities, schools, businesses, and other gathering places should take steps to become clean air shelters or identify clean air shelters in the community. Home and community clean air shelters protect public health during wildfire smoke events.
Replacing HVAC filters in air conditioners annually will help keep smoke out of buildings.
Setting home air conditioning units to ‘recirculate’ during fire events will deter smoke from entering the house.
Room-size air cooling systems that don’t utilize outside air can be used to cool the space while preventing hazardous air from entering.
Improve indoor air quality during wildfire events with indoor air cleaners, including Do-It-Yourself air cleaners. Visit Research on DIY Air Cleaners to Reduce Wildfire Smoke Indoors | US EPA for guidance on how to make Do-It-Yourself air cleaners.
Organizers of outdoor events and sports should be prepared to postpone activities if conditions become smoky. See the Safety Decision Making Toolkit available at Environmental Public Health Tracking – Fire and Smoke.
If you do not have an air conditioner and it is too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, seek shelter elsewhere (such as a cooling center, a relative’s or a friend’s home).
Consider visiting public libraries, senior centers, and other public places that have air conditioning.
For multi-day events, stay elsewhere until the air quality improves.

Since the Southwest typically has very low humidity, visibility is somewhat reliable to determine if it is safe to be outside when smoke is present. However, the potential for negative health outcomes from smoke exposure remains. Consult the 5-3-1 Visibility Method at Environmental Public Health Tracking – Fire and Smoke to determine if local smoke events might impact your health. Residents are also encouraged to monitor local and statewide news for health warnings about smoke.

Although COVID-19 cases have decreased, be aware that being in indoor public spaces may increase your risk for COVID-19 exposure. If you have health conditions, are elderly, or are pregnant, consider wearing a mask if you must seek shelter.

NMED operates air quality monitors at multiple statewide locations, which gather information about air quality conditions to keep the public informed. This data can be tracked at their website. Find additional wildfire and smoke resources at the New Mexico Environment Department Air Quality Bureau and more tips at Heat Stress – Environmental Public Health Tracking.

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Originally Appeared Here

QUEST WATER GLOBAL, INC. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (form 10-K)

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

The following discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial
condition has been derived from and should be read in conjunction with our
audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto that
appear elsewhere in this annual report, as well as Item 1 and the “Presentation
of Information” section that appears at the beginning of this annual report.

Overview

We provide sustainable and environmentally sound solutions to water scarce
regions. Our goal is to address the vital issue of water quality and water
supply by providing an alternative, sustainable source of pure water at the
smallest possible environmental cost to global areas in need, while becoming a
leading company in providing decentralized, turn-key solutions using alternative
energy for the purification, desalination and distribution of clean drinking
water.

We have developed a proprietary AQUAtap™ Community Water Purification and
Distribution System consisting of a self-contained water purification system
using either a reverse osmosis membrane or ultrafiltration membrane, powered by
photovoltaic solar panels and hosted in modified shipping containers. Each unit
is energy self-sufficient with minimal operational and maintenance costs. We
believe that this product represents the first truly environmentally sound
solution to drinking water shortages as it is autonomous, decentralized and
sustainable, and because each unit is capable of converting brackish, sea or
contaminated surface water into high quality drinking water at a rate of up to
100,000 litres per day.

In addition to the solar-powered water purification systems, we have also
developed a technology known as WEPSTM that produces potable water from humidity
in the atmosphere. WEPSTM technology works by converting humidity into water,
otherwise known as atmospheric water extraction.

Results of Operations

Revenue

We generated $150,000 in revenue during the year ended December 31, 2021,
whereas we did not generate any revenue during the same period in the prior
year. All of the revenue was attributable to a sales order and advance payment
from AQUAtap Oasis Partnership S.A.R.L., and was offset by $112,764 in cost of
goods sold, for a gross profit of $37,236. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we
anticipate that we will incur substantial losses for the foreseeable future and
our ability to generate any revenues in the next 12 months continues to be
uncertain.

Expenses

During the year ended December 31, 2021, we incurred $524,586 in total expenses,
including $430,000 in management fees, $46,777 in professional fees, $21,000 in
rent, $8,824 in automotive expenses, $7,933 in office and miscellaneous
expenses, $7,120 in transfer agent and filing fees and $2,932 in telephone
expenses.

During the prior year, we incurred $459,270 in total expenses, including
$410,000 in management fees, $21,000 in rent, $9,902 in office and miscellaneous
expenses, $7,593 in automotive expenses, $3,006 in our travel expenses, $2,850
in transfer agent and filing fees, $2,528 in professional fees and $2,391 in
telephone expenses.

The increase of $65,316 or approximately 14% in our total expenses between 2020
and 2021 largely resulted from the increase in our professional fees from
year-to-year.

Other Income

During the year ended December 31, 2021, certain creditors owning an aggregate
of $175,000 in convertible notes we previously issued agreed to cancel the notes
for nominal consideration, resulting in the forgiveness of debt in an identical
amount. In addition, we reversed an aggregate of $50,306 in previously recorded
accounts payable that we determined were uncollectable by the applicable
creditors.

Net Loss

During the year ended December 31, 2021, we incurred a net loss of $262,044,
whereas we incurred a net loss of $459,270 (equal to our total expenses) during
the prior year. Our net loss per share during those two years was Nil and $0.01,
respectively.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of December 31, 2021, we had $4,227 in cash, $11,447 in total assets,
$3,681,822 in total liabilities and a working capital deficit of $3,677,595. As
of December 31, 2021 we had an accumulated deficit of $10,003,209.

To date, we have experienced negative cash flows from operations and we have
been dependent on sales of our common stock and capital contributions to fund
our operations. We expect this situation to continue for the foreseeable future,
and we anticipate that we will experience negative cash flows during the year
ended December 31, 2022.

During the year ended December 31, 2021, we used $528,441 in net cash on
operating activities, compared to $535,731 in net cash use on operating
activities during the prior year. Our net cash spending on operating activities
during the two fiscal years was therefore reasonably consistent.

We did not use any net cash on investing activities during the years ended
December 31, 2021 or 2020.

We received $527,953 in net cash from financing activities during the year ended
December 31, 2021, all of which was in the form of advances from related
parties. During the year ended December 31, 2020, we received $485,514 in net
cash from financing activities, substantially all of which was in the form of
advances from related parties.

During the year ended December 31, 2021, our cash decreased by $488 as a result
of our operating and financing activities, from $4,715 to $4,227. As of December
31, 2021, we did not have sufficient cash resources to meet our operating
expenses for even one month based on our then-current burn rate. However, we
have continued to rely on advances from related parties to continue operating
and expect to do so for the foreseeable future.

Plan of Operations

Our plan of operations over the next 12 months is to continue to address water
quality and supply issues in the DRC through the installation of our AQUAtapTM
Community Water Purification & Distribution systems as well as the employment of
our WEPSTMtechnology, and we anticipate that we will require a minimum of
$946,000 to pursue those plans.

As described above, we intend to meet the balance of our cash requirements for
the next 12 months through advances from related parties as well as a
combination of debt financing and equity financing through private placements as
circumstances allow. We are not presently contacting broker/dealers in Canada
and elsewhere regarding possible financing arrangements, but we intend to
initiate such contact once the current cease trade order in effect against us in
the Province of British Columbia, Canada has been revoked. Regardless, there is
no assurance that we will be successful in completing any private placement or
other financings. If we are unsuccessful in obtaining sufficient funds through
our capital raising efforts, we may review other financing options.

During the next 12 months, we estimate that our planned expenditures will
include the following:

Amount
Description ($)
Equipment purchases 250,000
Management fees 430,000
Consulting fees 120,000
Professional fees 50,000
Rent 21,000
Advertising and promotion expenses 15,000
Travel and automotive expenses 30,000
Other general and administrative expenses 30,000
Total 946,000

Going Concern

Our financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which
implies we will continue to realize our assets and discharge our liabilities in
the normal course of business. As at December 31, 2021, we had a working capital
deficit of $3,677,595 and an accumulated deficit of $10,003,209. Our
continuation as a going concern is dependent upon the continued financial
support from our creditors, our ability to obtain necessary equity financing to
continue operations, and ultimately on the attainment of profitable operations.
These factors raise substantial doubt regarding our ability to continue as a
going concern. Our financial statements do not include any adjustments to the
recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification
of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue as a
going concern.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably
likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in
financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity,
capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.

Critical Accounting Policies

We have identified certain accounting policies, described below, that are
important to the portrayal of our current financial condition and results of
operations.

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements and related notes are presented in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States
and are expressed in US dollars. Our consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of the Company; the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries Quest Water
Solutions, Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada
(“Quest Nevada”), and AQUAtap Global, Inc., a company incorporated under the
laws of the State of Wyoming (“AQUAtap WY”); Quest Nevada’s wholly-owned
subsidiary, Quest Water Solutions Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of
the Province of British Columbia, Canada (“Quest BC”); AQUAtap WY’s wholly-owned
subsidiary, AQUAtap Global Investments Inc., a company incorporated under the
laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada; and Quest BC’s wholly-owned
inactive subsidiary, Heliosource, Inc., a company incorporated under the laws of
the State of Nevada. All inter-company balances and transactions have been
eliminated on consolidation.

Foreign Currency Translation

The Company’s functional currency is US dollars. Transactions in foreign
currencies are translated into the currency of measurement at the exchange rates
in effect on the transaction date. Monetary balance sheet items expressed in
foreign currencies are translated into US dollars at the exchange rates in
effect at the balance sheet date. The resulting exchange gains and losses are
recognized in income.

The Company’s integrated foreign subsidiaries are financially or operationally
dependent on the Company. The Company uses the temporal method to translate the
accounts of its integrated operations into US dollars. Monetary assets and
liabilities are translated at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet
date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated at historical rates.
Revenues and expenses are translated at average rates for the period, except for
amortization, which is translated on the same basis as the related asset. The
resulting exchange gains or losses are recognized in the consolidated statement
of operations.

Investments

The Company accounts for its investments in other entities by following ASC 323,
Investments, “Equity Method and Joint Ventures” whereby equity investments of
20% or greater but less than control are accounted for using the equity method.
Under this method, the carrying cost is initially recorded at cost and then
increased or decreased by recording its percentage of gain or loss in its
statement of operations and a corresponding charge or credit to the carrying
value of the asset.

Should the Company exercise significant influence, the investment might be
accounted for as a variable interest entity which would require consolidation
and recognition of a non-controlling interest.

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Originally Appeared Here

6 Questionable Things We Did At The Beginning of the Pandemic | Z100 New York

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Let’s set the scene. It’s March 2020. We’re all stuck at home with nothing to do. We start behaving…strangely. Doing things we’ve never done before. Taking on tasks we have no experience with. Becoming a version of ourselves we do not recognize.

These are some of the things we obsessed over when “unprecedented times” was a new term.

Drive-by Celebrations: For graduations, birthdays, proposals, baby showers…you name it, we were driving around the block to celebrate.
Baking, mostly bread: Suddenly everyone summoned the power Ina Garten, Rachel Ray, and the Cake Boss. All of our bread escapades even led to a national flour shortage.
Tiger King: Girl……….yikes. We went absolutely feral for that show. 64 million households tuned in to season 1. A really dark part of our past. We need to learn from that.
Hand Washing Tutorials: Honestly, the first red flag of this whole thing should’ve been that no one knew how to wash their hands. Baby if you need a 20 second song to help you clean your hands after the bathroom then you shouldn’t be leaving the house anyway.
Photos of Deserted Places: Actually idk why this is on the list because it was pretty interesting to see Time Square and Disney World totally empty. But also a little creepy.
Disinfecting Our Mail: Jail. Immediately. You have to admit, even if you did this, it was a lot. And literally no one told us to do that.

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Originally Appeared Here

Humidifier for eczema: FAQs answered

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by dryness, itchiness, and discoloring of the skin. This article addresses frequently asked questions about whether a humidifier is a good treatment for eczema.

Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting about 1 in 10 people in the United States during their lifetime.

Eczema results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that lead to disruption of the skin barrier. When connections between skin cells do not work as they should, it makes it hard for the skin to retain water. This leads to dryness and irritation.

A person may use moisturizers and topical creams or ointments to treat symptoms of eczema. These help return moisture to the skin. Some people may also find relief by adding moisture to the air using a humidifier.

Here we answer common questions about whether using a humidifier can help relieve symptoms of eczema, as well as important considerations for safe humidifier use.

Dry air and low humidity are often considered triggers for eczema symptoms, so many experts recommend using a humidifier to increase the amount of moisture in the air.

In general, it is recommended that humidity be maintained at 50% to 60% to prevent dry skin, but this may not always be practical. Indoor humidity levels that are too high can cause mold growth and attract pests such as cockroaches or dust mites.

For practical purposes, using a humidifier to achieve a humidity level between 30% and 50% may be helpful for people with eczema. If humidity levels are already in this range, using a humidifier may not help.

Humidity levels tend to be lowest in the winter, so people often think to use a humidifier during this time. However, air conditioners also remove moisture from the air too. So even though outdoor humidity levels may seem high during the summer, indoor humidity levels may remain low.

Many digital indoor thermometers measure humidity, but a person can use a hygrometer can keep track of humidity levels throughout the year.

Although experts often recommend using a humidifier to maintain comfortable moisture levels in the air, a person must consider some important safety points.

In a study of 3,302 children ages 5 to 7 years old living in Southern California, those who had used a humidifier in their home were 44% more likely to have eczema than those who hadn’t ever used a humidifier.

This doesn’t mean that humidifiers cause eczema, though. For example, children who are more prone to eczema, such as those with parents who have eczema, may be more likely to use a humidifier.

Another possibility is that improper humidifier use contributes to other factors that can make eczema symptoms worse.

As described above, humidity levels that are too high can promote mold growth and create an environment where dust and pests such as cockroaches can thrive. Allergens from these pests are common triggers for people with eczema and may make symptoms worse.

Standing water in humidifiers can also lead to bacterial or mold growth, which can then spread into the air. Breathing in mist containing microorganisms can cause respiratory health conditions and may contribute to inflammation in the skin and lungs.

Keeping the humidifier clean and regularly replacing the water are important parts of safe humidifier use. Experts generally recommend that a person avoid using humidifier disinfectants, though. These can be toxic if inhaled and lead to heart and lung damage.

Although experts often recommend using a humidifier to help with eczema symptoms during dry weather, these recommendations aren’t made based on scientific evidence, and research on the use of humidifiers for eczema remains limited.

Damage to the skin barrier in eczema can cause water loss, which has been linked to itchiness in a variety of skin conditions.

So even though it hasn’t been tested, many experts recommend using a humidifier in places with very dry air to help prevent symptoms associated with eczema, including itchy skin.

Other ways to treat itchy skin include moisturizing immediately after bathing, wearing cotton or other breathable fabrics, and avoiding triggers.

Like all molecules, water moves from areas of high concentration to low concentration.

Human skin is roughly 64% water. When the amount of water in the air gets much lower than that, it can cause the skin to become dehydrated.

Because people with eczema have weaker connections between their skin cells, this happens more easily than in people without eczema. This is why people with eczema may be prone to dry, itchy, irritated skin in dry air.

Moisturizers, creams, and ointments can help to return moisture to the skin during dry periods. Thick creams and moisturizers are typically recommended over lotions, which can evaporate and leave the skin vulnerable to drying out more quickly.

Interrupted skin barrier function in people with eczema can cause epidermal water loss that can be made worse by dry air. Many people with eczema experience symptom flares during periods of low humidity and may turn to a humidifier to relieve their symptoms.

Many experts recommend using a humidifier during dry periods such as the winter seasons, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure safe humidifier use. A person should regularly clean the humidifier and change the water to prevent bacterial and mold growth.

People with eczema who are concerned that their symptoms may get worse in dry air should talk with their dermatologist about whether a humidifier is right for them.

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Originally Appeared Here

JSC Enterprises Reminds McDonough Residents to Replace the Air Conditioner Filter

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

“JSC Enterprises Logo”

How often should homeowners replace the air conditioner filter at home?

Now that spring is here and the days are getting warmer many are turning on the air conditioners again for the first time this season. That raises the question as to how often should you change the air conditioning filter. We reached out to Steve Cassell of JSC Enterprises, an AC repair company in McDonough Georgia.

Steve tells us, “The air conditioner filter needs to be changed as often as the manufacturer recommends. Of course this depends on the quality of the air conditioner filters you are using. For instance, if you are using the cheaper thin fiber glass filters then you should probably change them once a month. Some of the higher quality hepa filters need to changed up to every six months depending on the manufacturers recommendations Of course these are the minimum recommendations and your health and local circumstances may require it to be changed more often.”

Why does an air conditioner filter need to be changed?

Steve continues, “Air conditioners work by using filters to sift and clean the air. Over time, dust and other particles will accumulate on the filter, reducing its efficiency and effectiveness. If a filter is too dirty, it can lead to problems with your home’s indoor air quality. This in turn can impact the health of you and your family.”

The following are some of the pollutants that may be trapped in an air conditioner filter:

Dust

Pollen

Mold

Dog and cat fur.

Animal dander.

Pollutants found in the open air

Steve adds, “People with breathing problems, allergies and pet owners should especially consider using a higher quality hepa filter. It not only gets more of the irritants out of the air but it lasts longer in between replacements. Talk to your local AC repair technician to find out what they suggest based on your personal situation.”

To learn more:

JSC Enterprises
1110 Post Oak Ridge
Mcdonough, GA
770-957-1768

JSC Enterprises
17 Seabolt Rd
Locust Grove, Ga 30248
(470) 594-5868

AC Repair Locust Grove Ga

Media Contact
Company Name: JSC Enterprises LLC
Contact Person: Steve Cassell
Email: Send Email
Phone: (770) 957-1768
Address:1110 Post Oak Rdg
City: McDonough
State: GA
Country: United States
Website: https://www.heatandairatlanta.com

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Originally Appeared Here

Terra Heights, by 1Architecture | Architect Magazine

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

This article appeared in the April 2022 issue of ARCHITECT.

The Heights historic neighborhood, located just north of downtown Tulsa, Okla., has enjoyed a revival over the last few decades. Formerly known as Brady Heights, the neighborhood had been named for W. Tate Brady, a founding father of Tulsa in 1898 and a successful businessman and politician. Many residents believed, however, that his membership in both the neo-Confederate group Sons of the Confederacy and the white supremacist organization Ku Klux Klan outweighed his industrious legacy, and the neighborhood association voted to change its community’s name in 2021.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1980, The Heights and many of its houses reflect the varied tastes of original owners, setting an architectural standard for middle- and upper-class developments. Over the years, the community has become close-knit through renovations of its eclectic residences, encompassing architectural styles such as Queen Anne, Victorian, Georgian Revival, and Craftsman. One new addition, a 3,550-square-foot, rammed-earth house by the local firm 1Architecture, continues the community’s eclectic tradition, adding Prairie School influences into the mix and furthering the conversation surrounding sustainable residential construction.

Nick Denison, Assoc. AIA, a 1Architecture principal, was approached by a friend in 2017 to design a residence in The Heights. As a designated historic neighborhood, The Heights has a number of restrictions and policies for newly constructed homes, including architectural styles. Encouraged by the site’s sloped profile, 1Architecture suggested a Prairie School–style project, emphasizing the horizontal rather than the vertical through bands of windows, striated exterior walls, and “low-slope hip roofs that help showcase the [exterior walls],” Denison says.

But the project, ultimately dubbed Terra Heights, has another defining feature: The house is constructed of rammed earth, a material that interested the Terra Heights clients due to its low embodied energy and durability. Ultimately, over 90% of the project’s mass was sourced from within 100 miles of the construction site; the residence also features efficient operational systems and, in conjunction with its materials, is designed to last multiple generations.

The project, completed in 2019, greets visitors with a sweeping cantilevered roof, spanning a depth of 13 feet. While the extension initially called for a steel frame, the design was simplified to wood construction. The interior features a split-level main floor and a partial second story. The kitchen and dining areas, located toward the back of the house, are raised to accommodate the slope of the site. Neutral, earthy tones of white finishes, wood accents, and concrete floors accentuate the construction. Denison chose this palette as “everything works in tandem with the texture and color” of the rammed earth walls.

Terra Heights is one of four structures designed to accommodate a multigenerational family. Adjacent to the site is a Craftsman residence for the owner’s parents, with each property containing an on-suite attached to a garage. The two homes are linked by adjoining courtyards, providing an opportunity for public interactions among the families; however, each residence accommodates private spaces for intimate moments. The gathering space features a rammed earth fireplace and open rustic steel pergola, extending the interior earthy tones into the outdoors. Board form concrete walls assist in the division of the spaces as well as further emphasize the horizontality of the overall design. The walls of the courtyards also assist in protection from hot summers and high winds.

Though 1Architecture does not typically design residential homes, Denison enjoyed working on a project that was “more form fitting for human size.” The scale, aesthetic, and design of Terra Heights functions as an admirable contemporary residence in The Heights historic neighborhood.

PROJECT CREDITS
Project: Terra Heights, Tulsa, Okla.
Client/Owner: Jacob and Meghan Johnson
Architect: 1Architecture, Tulsa, Okla. Shelby Navarro (founding principal, CEO), Nick Denison, AIA (principal)
Structural Engineer: 360 Engineering Group, Elli Johannsson
Construction Manager: Aussie Built, Mick Gower
General Contractor: Aussie Built, Mick Gower
Landscape Architect: Naked Gardener, Nance Hawkinson
Size: 3,550 square feet
Cost: $791,237

MATERIALS AND SOURCES
Appliances: Fisher Paykel built-in energy efficient refrigerator, 48” Italian Bertazzoni Professional range with commercial vent hood
Cabinets: Laminate, Custom designed and fabricated cabinetry, Custom bar area with built-in wine storage and refrigeration, Soft close doors and drawers on all cabinets Ceilings:
Countertops: Quarts
Exterior Wall Systems: Rammed Earth – The exterior construction method of the Prairie House is stabilized rammed earth by master carpenter Mick Gower of Aussie Built, Inc. Although scarce in the midwest, rammed earth construction is widely used in countries with strict building codes and requirements such as Australia and Switzerland and is gaining in popularity across the United States. It is hailed for its energy saving properties, resistance to wind & fire, low maintenance, extreme durability, indoor air purity, and substantial look & feel. In performance and construction method it is most closely related to formed concrete structures. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6539055/
Flooring: Polished concrete floors on lower split level with wood on upper level. Custom tile floors + shower in upstairs bathroom. Oversized full tile shower in master bathroom Furniture: Custom millwork include rift-sawn white oak book shelving,
HVAC: At a 45 SEER rating, Terra Heights Utilizes the world’s most efficient
triple variable geothermal system
Hydronic radiant in-floor heating system
Water to air forced air heating and cooling system
Geothermal domestic hot water
Entire slab is a floating fully insulated concrete system with pex hydronic
tubing split into 8 independent zones
Cottage HVAC and hot water systems are fully independent inverter
mini-split and on-demand hot water to provide redundancy.
https://www.climatemaster.com/Homeowner/side-links/products/product-details/trilogy
Kitchen fixtures: All pendants sourced from West Elm
Lighting Control Systems: Voice controlled smart-home implementation
Lighting: All pendants sourced from West Elm or Ikea, 4” Gimbal fixtures with museum grade LED bulbs throughout
Metal: Steel
Roofing: Fortified Silver Roofing Certification
As one of Oklahoma’s first Fortified Silver certification homes the structure has been engineered and reinforced to withstand high winds and hail bringingsignificant insurance savings and longevity to the house.
Reinforced sheathing throughout
Completely sealed roof deck
All glazed openings, entries, and garage doors protected
Strengthened gable ends and overhangs
Reinforced soffits
Site and Landscape Products: Rammed earth courtyard with cement caps, including firepit and fountain, Steel beam trellis, Tile pavers + concrete steps, Anodized aluminum guttering system
Windows and Doors: High-grade solid core craftsman style interior doors throughout home, 18” deep concrete window sills

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Originally Appeared Here

Shop budget-friendly air purifiers for work

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.

If you’re returning to the office soon, chances are you’re thinking about how you can make your in-person workspace more comfortable to ease the transition. In addition to ergonomic furniture and a set of great noise-cancelling headphones, an air purifier can be quite beneficial, as the EPA reports many offices have poor indoor air quality. These devices can help get rid of irritating dust and pollen that can leave you congested, and many can also neutralize unpleasant odors that might waft through your workspace.

Here at Reviewed, we‘ve tested many of the best air purifiers, but these appliances are often quite pricey, frequently costing several hundred dollars or more. If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, the following are several affordable air purifiers to use in different office settings, whether you have an enclosed office, cubicle, or other work setup.

There’s a lot more where this came from. Sign up for our twice-weekly newsletter to get all our reviews, expert advice, deals and more.

For an enclosed office: Levoit LV-H132 Personal Air Purifier

If you’re lucky enough to have your own enclosed office—whether at home or at a company workplace—a product like the Levoit Personal Air Purifier will help improve the air quality quite effectively. This compact model can handle rooms up to 129 square feet, and it uses a three-stage filtration system with a H13 True HEPA filter to trap dust, pet dander, pollen, and more. It also has an activated carbon filter to help remove any odors within your space.

Since it’s a budget-friendly pick, this air purifier lacks some of the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but it’s still highly effective in small spaces. It operates at around 25 decibels, so it won’t interrupt your work, and the light on top of the unit can be turned off if it bothers you.

Get the Levoit LV-H132 Personal Air Purifier from Amazon for $74.98

For your cubicle: Ikea Förnuftig

You can improve the air quality in your work cubicle with the help of the Förnuftig Air Purifier from Ikea. While this budget-friendly model does have some drawbacks—namely that it doesn’t have a HEPA filter—we think it’s a good option for small workspaces thanks to its thin profile and ability to be mounted to the wall.

This air purifier is best suited for spaces between 85 and 105 feet, so it’s more than capable of handling a standard-sized cubicle. It has a particle filter that can remove approximately 99.5% of smaller airborne particles, and you can also outfit it with a carbon filter (sold separately) to remove odors from your workstation. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the air purifier has an attractive fabric finish.

Get the Förnuftig Air Purifier from Ikea for $69.99

For an open workspace: Osimo HEPA Air Purifier

When you work at a desk in an open-concept office, air purification is tricky. There are plenty of desktop air purifiers out there, but will they really help improve air quality around you?

“Physics says no,” explains Dave Ellerby, chief scientist at Reviewed. “I think if you’re within a relatively enclosed space, then they could improve your local air quality. If there’s significant air exchange in your environment or you’re in a large, shared space, then any air that they purify will soon get replaced by non-purified air.”

If you still want to have a small purifier on your desk, one budget-friendly option is the Osimo HEPA Air Purifier. It’s small enough to place right beside your computer, and it uses a pre-filter, true HEPA filter and activated carbon filter to remove 99.9% of air pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. Plus, it operates at a whisper-quiet 22 decibels, meaning it won’t bother people at desks around you.

Get the Osimo HEPA Air Purifier from Amazon for $39.99

For the break room: OdorStop HEPA Air Purifier

Office break rooms can often develop unpleasant odors from trash or your coworker who microwaved fish for lunch, but a product like the OdorStop Air Purifier can help get rid of those smells. While it’s not the most affordable option on this list, the OdorStop Air Purifier is still more budget-friendly than other similarly sized models and can handle rooms up to 1,000 square feet.

This air purifier has a H13 HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of contaminants as small as 0.3 microns, and it has an air quality sensor built in, so you can put it in automatic mode and it will kick on as needed. The unit also has an activated carbon filter to help neutralize break room odors, and it was one of the quietest air purifiers we tested.

Get the OdorStop HEPA Air Purifier from Amazon for $139.99

For your commute: Pure Enrichment PureZone

If your car is home to a lot of dust or just smells like fast food, commuting back and forth to work can be quite unenjoyable. However, the Pure Enrichment PureZone Portable Air Purifier can help to improve the air quality in your car, helping to remove 99.97% of dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke and odors. It has a two-stage filtration system that uses an activated carbon filter for odors and a true HEPA filter for fine particles, and the design is compact enough to place in one of your car’s cup holders.

Wondering how you’d plug in this HEPA air purifier on the go? It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers up to 12 hours of operation per charge.

It comes with a USB charging cable that can be plugged into a charging block or even your computer, and its lightweight design is easy to toss in your bag if you want to use the purifier while traveling. This two-pack ensures you can keep one in your car and one in your bag so you can enjoy cleaner air wherever you go.

Get the PureEnrichment PureZone Portable True HEPA Air Purifier on Amazon for $39.99

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Here’s the latest on wildfires burning in New Mexico

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

McBride Fire – RuidosoA wildfire burning near Ruidoso has burned more than 200 homes and has killed two people trying to flee the flames as evacuations were ordered.The fire started on Tuesday near Warrior Drive and Hull Road in Ruidoso. The fire spread very rapidly on Tuesday as strong winds in the area gusted to 80 miles per hour. As the flames spread, hundreds were evacuated from their homes with little notice, taking shelter at the Ruidoso Convention Center.As evacuations were ongoing, an older couple that was unaccounted for by their family were found dead in their home by police and fire officials. Police said the couple was trying to evacuate their Gavilan Canyon home before the home caught fire.Several homes were lost in the McBride, Gavilan Canyon, Fawn Ridge, Homestead Acres and Lower Eagle Creek neighborhoods.Mandatory evacuations remain in place for the following areas: Moon Mountain Area: High Loop, Lupin, Starlight etc. Gavilan Canyon: From Highway 70 to Lower Eagle CreekEast of Hull: McBride, Snowcap, Timberline, Fawn Ridge Homestead Acres/Lower Eagle CreekRancho Ruidoso Valley Estates, Deer Valley, Deer Park, and Alto East of Flute Player.The Ruidoso Convention Center has been setup as a shelter for evacuees. A Type 1 fire team has taken command of the fire and will be working on structure protection and will also work to build containment lines around the fire.Many donations have poured in to help those impacted and evacuated by the McBride Fire. The Village of Ruidoso leaders said they have been overwhelmed with donations of food, water and clothes.Water AdvisoryThe New Mexico Environment Department and New Mexico Department of Health have issued a precautionary water advisory for the following areas of Lincoln County:Canyon Hideaway and EscapeLa Vida BuenaR&R RV ParkThe state environment department says significant damage to the infrastructure caused by the McBride Fire prompted the advisory. State officials say those who get their water from the public water systems listed above should seek alternate sources of water for the protection of public health. The New Mexico Environment Department also recommends those who own a well in the area to take these steps once it is safe to do so:Step 1: Well inspection and repair – check for damage to well components, including electrical systems and remove debris. Step 2: Flush the well until the water runs clear (approximately 30 minutes to one hour) and check water pressure. This may best be done by a well contractor.Step 3: Test your well water for Coliform bacteria including E. coli, nitrate, other contaminants of concern.Step 4: Disinfect your well if water tests positive for bacteria (E. coli) or repairs were done. This may best be done by a well contractor.Hermits Peak FireThe Hermits Peak Fire burning in the Santa Fe National Forest has caused several evacuations started as a prescribed burn. The fire has burned 7,077 acres and is 33% contained. Firefighters are working to establish containment lines as fire growth was smaller on Wednesday. Evacuations are still in effect for the following locations: San Ignacio, County Road A3A, Canoncito and Pendaries VillageThe following areas should be preparing for possible evacuation: Las Tusas, La Canada, Manuelitas, West Sapello, Las Dispensas, Lower Canyon Road in Gallinas Canyon, Upper Rociada, Rociada, Pendaries Valley East, Penasco Blanco, South Carmen, Northern Tierra Monte-Canyon, Big Pine, Canovas Canyon, El Porvenir, Gallinas, Trout Springs, Northeast and Southeast Sapello, Las and Los Alamitos. An evacuation shelter is available at the Old Memorial Middle School gym located at the corner of Legion and Old National in Las Vegas.Smoke from the Hermits Peak Fire may be visible from Gallinas, El Porvenir, San Pablo, Mineral Hill, San Geronimo, Gascon, Pendaries, Rociada, Mora, Ledoux, Las Vegas, and along the I-25 corridor. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. An interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/ allows you to zoom into your area to see the latest smoke conditions.Nogal Canyon FireThe Nogal Canyon Fire burning in Lincoln County started after fallen powerlines sparked the fire. The fire spread rapidly on Tuesday as strong winds moved through the area. Six homes and eight outbuildings have burned in the fire. Firefighters are worked with more favorable weather conditions Thursday, allowing for helicopters to perform bucket drops on the fire. Ground crews are working to establish containment lines and put out hotspots around homes in an effort to make the area safe for residents to return. Due to unsafe fire conditions, all of Nogal Canyon remains in a mandatory evacuation. The following areas are in “set” status for evacuation: Pfingsten Road to Crockett Canyon Trail and Crockett Canyon Trail west to Nogal Canyon Road. Those who have evacuated from the Nogal Canyon fire can go to the shelter set up at Carrizozo Schools.

NEW MEXICO —

McBride Fire – Ruidoso

A wildfire burning near Ruidoso has burned more than 200 homes and has killed two people trying to flee the flames as evacuations were ordered.

The fire started on Tuesday near Warrior Drive and Hull Road in Ruidoso. The fire spread very rapidly on Tuesday as strong winds in the area gusted to 80 miles per hour. As the flames spread, hundreds were evacuated from their homes with little notice, taking shelter at the Ruidoso Convention Center.

As evacuations were ongoing, an older couple that was unaccounted for by their family were found dead in their home by police and fire officials. Police said the couple was trying to evacuate their Gavilan Canyon home before the home caught fire.

Several homes were lost in the McBride, Gavilan Canyon, Fawn Ridge, Homestead Acres and Lower Eagle Creek neighborhoods.

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for the following areas:

Moon Mountain Area: High Loop, Lupin, Starlight etc.
Gavilan Canyon: From Highway 70 to Lower Eagle Creek
East of Hull: McBride, Snowcap, Timberline, Fawn Ridge Homestead Acres/Lower Eagle Creek
Rancho Ruidoso Valley Estates, Deer Valley, Deer Park, and Alto East of Flute Player.

The Ruidoso Convention Center has been setup as a shelter for evacuees.

A Type 1 fire team has taken command of the fire and will be working on structure protection and will also work to build containment lines around the fire.

Many donations have poured in to help those impacted and evacuated by the McBride Fire. The Village of Ruidoso leaders said they have been overwhelmed with donations of food, water and clothes.

Water Advisory

The New Mexico Environment Department and New Mexico Department of Health have issued a precautionary water advisory for the following areas of Lincoln County:

Canyon Hideaway and Escape
La Vida Buena
R&R RV Park

The state environment department says significant damage to the infrastructure caused by the McBride Fire prompted the advisory. State officials say those who get their water from the public water systems listed above should seek alternate sources of water for the protection of public health.

The New Mexico Environment Department also recommends those who own a well in the area to take these steps once it is safe to do so:

Step 1: Well inspection and repair – check for damage to well components, including electrical systems and remove debris.
Step 2: Flush the well until the water runs clear (approximately 30 minutes to one hour) and check water pressure. This may best be done by a well contractor.
Step 3: Test your well water for Coliform bacteria including E. coli, nitrate, other contaminants of concern.
Step 4: Disinfect your well if water tests positive for bacteria (E. coli) or repairs were done. This may best be done by a well contractor.

Hermits Peak Fire

The Hermits Peak Fire burning in the Santa Fe National Forest has caused several evacuations started as a prescribed burn.

The fire has burned 7,077 acres and is 33% contained. Firefighters are working to establish containment lines as fire growth was smaller on Wednesday.

Evacuations are still in effect for the following locations: San Ignacio, County Road A3A, Canoncito and Pendaries Village

The following areas should be preparing for possible evacuation: Las Tusas, La Canada, Manuelitas, West Sapello, Las Dispensas, Lower Canyon Road in Gallinas Canyon, Upper Rociada, Rociada, Pendaries Valley East, Penasco Blanco, South Carmen, Northern Tierra Monte-Canyon, Big Pine, Canovas Canyon, El Porvenir, Gallinas, Trout Springs, Northeast and Southeast Sapello, Las and Los Alamitos.

An evacuation shelter is available at the Old Memorial Middle School gym located at the corner of Legion and Old National in Las Vegas.

Smoke from the Hermits Peak Fire may be visible from Gallinas, El Porvenir, San Pablo, Mineral Hill, San Geronimo, Gascon, Pendaries, Rociada, Mora, Ledoux, Las Vegas, and along the I-25 corridor. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. An interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/ allows you to zoom into your area to see the latest smoke conditions.

Nogal Canyon Fire

The Nogal Canyon Fire burning in Lincoln County started after fallen powerlines sparked the fire.

The fire spread rapidly on Tuesday as strong winds moved through the area. Six homes and eight outbuildings have burned in the fire.

Firefighters are worked with more favorable weather conditions Thursday, allowing for helicopters to perform bucket drops on the fire. Ground crews are working to establish containment lines and put out hotspots around homes in an effort to make the area safe for residents to return.

Due to unsafe fire conditions, all of Nogal Canyon remains in a mandatory evacuation. The following areas are in “set” status for evacuation: Pfingsten Road to Crockett Canyon Trail and Crockett Canyon Trail west to Nogal Canyon Road.

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Those who have evacuated from the Nogal Canyon fire can go to the shelter set up at Carrizozo Schools.

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Originally Appeared Here

Yuck – 5 Surprising Places Germs Can Live in Your Office

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

5 Surprising Places Germs Can Live in Your Office and How to Reduce the Risk

The average workplace is a breeding ground for germs. It’s true– the average person carries about 100 different kinds of bacteria on their body. The only way to stay healthy and prevent the spread of germs is to maintain a clean office environment. However, it’s not always that easy.

There are multiple nooks and crannies in an office that give germs a place to live – some of them, pretty surprising!

Here are some of the dirtiest, germiest (is that a word?) places in your office or workspace. Clean them regularly!

1. Light switches

In and out, on and off – if you have a steady flow of co-workers (or family members!) going from room to room and turning the lights on and off all day, that’s a lot of chances for germs to spread. (Especially the bathroom light switch.)

And while we’re speaking about lighting, don’t forget light bulbs!

Light bulbs are something that are overlooked in most offices, but they’re one of the more surprising places germs can live. Light bulbs that haven’t been changed for months or years can literally be a breeding ground for bacteria. To prevent it from becoming an office health concern, change your bulbs every few months or at least once a year.

2. Door handles and knobs

Door handles are one of the most common places for germs to live. It’s easy for people to touch door handles and then forget to wash their hands. This can lead to the spreading of bacteria, which can make its way onto your desk or other surfaces in your office. To prevent this from happening, it is important to make sure that everyone washes their hands after they’ve been touching any door handle. And clean the knobs regularly with an antibacterial soap or spray.

By the way, ANY handle, knob, or button that gets pushed frequently by multiple people is probably germ-ridden. The sink faucet handles in the breakroom. The handle on the microwave door. The button or handle on the drinking fountain. The refrigerator door handle. Vending machine buttons. The elevator buttons and doors to the stairwell.

3. Key cards

One of the most surprising places germs can live in your office is on your key card. It’s recommended to change your key card every three months, but that might not be enough. Germs can survive for up to a year in certain conditions. A quick and easy way to reduce the risk of germs on your key card is by wiping it down with a disinfectant wipe before you put it away or leave the building at the end of the day.

4.Kitchen Sink and Sponge

The active bacteria found in the kitchen – yes, where you go to CLEAN your coffee cups and lunch containers – are higher than any other area in an office. In fact, according to Dr. Chuck Gerba, a microbiology professor in Arizona, “Usually there are about 200 times more faecal bacteria on the average cutting board than on a toilet seat.”

Even worse is the sponge. According to Gerba, a typical sponge holds about 10 million bacteria per square inch; a dishcloth is a bit better, merely a million.

By way of contrast – and this is surprising – a typical toilet set has about 50 bacteria in a square inch. Doing the match, then – a kitchen sponge is 200,000 times dirtier than a toilet seat, and a dishcloth is 20,000 times dirtier.

Maybe it’s time to ditch the sponge altogether and stick to paper towels.

5. Computer mice and keyboards

The surfaces of computer mice and keyboards are areas that have been found to contain the most germs. The keyboard has a recessed space where crumbs can get caught, and the mouse has a gap where dirt can collect. Not only that, your hands are on them all day, making them natural collection points for dead skin cells, food particles and dust.

To avoid this problem, make sure you clean your mouse and keyboard with a disinfecting wipe or spray on a regular basis.

It may not seem like much, but printers are another place where germs can lurk. To eliminate this risk you should always keep a roll of paper towels nearby and use it to clean around the printer as well as after each print job

Conclusion

There are many ways that germs can find their way into your office. Luckily, there are some easy ways to reduce the risk of infection. It’s not that difficult to wipe off the doorknobs with some antiseptic wipes every once in a while. Some of today’s high-end air purifiers enhance surface disinfection, too. (Less bacteria, viruses, particles in the air means less on surfaces.)

And yes – wash your hands.

Long Island Water Districts Settle Claims Arising from Alleged 1,4-Dioxane Contamination | Goldberg Segalla

April 15, 2022 by Staff Reporter

You may have read about the slew of lawsuits filed over the past few years by Long Island water districts seeking to recover damages arising from alleged contamination of drinking water supplies by 1,4-dioxane. Our blog has covered them here, here, here, and here.

There is news on the settlement front. One of the primary defendants and the U.S. government have agreed to resolutions in two cases: Bethpage (in the amount of $49 million) and South Farmingdale (in the amount of $15.5 million). The Bethpage lawsuit, for example, sought damages “to … restore its damaged drinking water supply wells…” and reimbursement “for the costs of designing, constructing, installing, operating, and maintaining the treatment facilities and equipment required to remove the 1,4-dioxane from its drinking water wells…”

The proposed consent judgments—filings whereby the parties ask that the court approve the settlement of the claims—state that the resolutions came after “good faith, arms-length negotiations,” they represent a “fair and reasonable resolution,” and are “consistent with the goals of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act…”—ultimately, the three issues that the court will determine in reviewing the proposed consent judgments.

As to damages, Bethpage stated that it had incurred approximately $37 million that related to “exploration, construction, and related infrastructure spending for its replacement supply wells and capital costs.” Bethpage forecasted that it will require an additional $25 million in operations and maintenance costs associated with the 1,4-dioxane treatment at some of its plants. South Farmingdale stated that it had incurred or will incur at least $30 to $35 million in capital and operations and maintenance costs for treatment of 1,4-dioxane at some of its wells, depending on various operational factors. South Farmingdale estimates that the resolution of its claim against the U.S. would cover “the majority of the capital costs and a material percentage of the initial operations and maintenance costs associated with installing necessary treatment technology.”

Both settlement proposals, though, acknowledge that the defendants “dispute their liability and aver, inter alia, that other sources of 1,4-dioxane impacted … [the] wells, including products containing 1,4-dioxane, such as stabilized 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA)…” and also assert that dioxane was a component of certain consumer products that may have led to the claimed contamination.

As background, 1,4-dioxane is a synthetic industrial chemical that is completely miscible (mixes in all proportions) in water. Generally, 1,4-dioxane is a likely contaminant at many sites contaminated with certain chlorinated solvents (particularly 1,1,1-trichloroethane) because of its widespread use as a stabilizer for those chemicals. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that 1,4-dioxane is used in “paint strippers, dyes, greases, varnishes and waxes” and is also found as an impurity in anti-freeze and aircraft deicing fluid, and in consumer products like shampoos, deodorants, cleaning detergents, and cosmetics.

In December 2020, the EPA released the final risk evaluation for 1,4-dioxane. The final risk evaluation states that there are unreasonable risks to workers and occupational non-users from 13 conditions of use, but EPA found “no unreasonable risks to the environment, consumers, bystanders, or the general population.” The National Toxicology Program classifies 1,4-dioxane as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” (NTP, 2016); the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies 1,4-dioxane as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” (IARC, 1999); and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) classifies it as a “potential occupational carcinogen” (NIOSH, 2004).

The case details are available under the following actions: South Farmingdale Water District v. U.S. et al., case number 2:22-cv-02051, and Bethpage Water District v. U.S. et al., case number 2:22-cv-02050, both filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

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Originally Appeared Here