Save me . . .
money
House payment help. Gold Toe, the sock company, wants to “put a spring in your step.” That’s the idea behind its “Money for your Mortgage” sweepstakes, in which the grand prize is a year’s worth of mortgage or rent payments. The entry deadline is June 10. Enter by logging on to foryourmortgage. Founded in 1929 during the Great Depression, Gold Toe introduced socks with a gold reinforcing yarn sewn into the toe to resist wear and tear.
energy
One thousand charges. Rechargeable batteries are an environmentally friendly power source. Depending on the frequency of use and how well they are handled, rechargeable batteries can last up to five years. That means less consumption and less household waste. Call2Recycle, the nonprofit electronics recycler, compiled these tips to help maximize the life of rechargeable batteries. More about the organization at or call 877-2-RECYCLE.
Always followthe manufacturer’s charging guidelines.
Never returna fully charged battery to the charger for an extra boost. This will shorten its life.
Never placea non-rechargeable battery in a battery charger.
Do not leavea rechargeable battery in the charger when it is not charging.
Let a discharged batterycool to room temperature before recharging.
Recharge batteriesonly when they are close to being fully discharged.
time & space
Safer grilling season. Four out of five American families own a grill, and most barbecue at least once a week in the summer, according to the Propane Education & Research Council. To prevent accidents, the National Fire Protection Association offers this advice:
Position the grillwell away from siding, deck railings, eaves and overhanging branches. Also, keep it away from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
Keep children and petsaway from the grill area. Declare a 3-foot “safe zone” around the grill.
Use long-handled grilling toolsto provide plenty of clearance from heat and flames when flipping burgers.
