(NAPSI)—You may have more in common with a race car driver than you realize. Consider this: When he’s not busy at the racetrack, NASCAR star Greg Biffle likes to slow down and unwind at home. Like other homeowners, Biffle and his wife Nicole are eager to create a warm, welcoming environment for guests while protecting their investment.

(NAPSI)—While some think of North Africa as a region of turmoil and unrest half a world away, one nation has emerged as a leader, demonstrating a commitment to cooperation and regional security that can ultimately benefit the interests of the U.S.

Century Theatres

(BPT) - There’s nothing like the smell of a home-cooked meal wafting through the kitchen for hours and hours – that is, if you have time to prepare such a meal. Since most of us don’t have that sort of time on a daily basis, many time-pressed cooks are rediscovering pressure cooking: an age-old cooking method that makes mealtime fast and easy.

(NAPSI)—Investing a little time and effort to prevent electrical hazards can mean increased safety and comfort this summer.

Century Theatres

Northwest Fire District firefighters responded to the Honey baked Ham store located at 7090 N. Oracle road at 0538 after an automatic fire alarm activation was received. The first arriving engine company arrived within 6 minutes to find an audible alarm sounding, flooding from the front door from the automatic sprinkler systems that had been activated and smoke also coming from the entry way. A full alarm was requested which brought three additional engine companies, a ladder company and support units to the scene.

(BPT) - It’s got all the hallmarks of a great home improvement – adds value, enhances livability and beauty, and creates a perfect gathering spot for family and friends. So why wouldn’t you add a swimming pool to your outdoor living space?

(NAPSI)—When budgets are tight and homeowners feel squeezed by higher electric bills, there may be a simple solution: Put the house on an energy “diet.” Here are some helpful tips:

(BPT) - Vehicles are a big investment for families – usually the second highest valued item in a household after the home itself. While the purchase price for cars, trucks and SUVs keeps going up, the cost of maintenance is holding steady or even dropping for most vehicles. Better materials, sophisticated computers and other advances increase reliability and allow less frequent oil changes, tune-ups and other service.

(NewsUSA) - As arguments for switching to renewable energy become more urgent, homeowners are finding new options to help finance rooftop solar systems.

After forming an exploratory committee to consider running for governor, Sen. Al Melvin, R-District 11, is confident that his bold ideas could lead him to the state’s top position in 2014.

(BPT) - Warm weather heralds home improvement season. It’s also the season of high electric bills as air conditioners hum to life in response to rising temperatures across the country. When you’re making summer upgrades to your home, improvements that make your house more livable and attractive are even more rewarding when they also help put money back in your pocket.

(BPT) - Is your backyard ready for bliss this summer? You probably look forward to spending as much time outdoors as possible during warmer months. But do you really have everything you need to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor living space from dawn to dusk – and beyond?

(BPT) - You’ve replaced your home’s 20-year-old windows with new, Energy Star-rated models, upgraded to electricity-sipping appliances and there’s not a single incandescent light bulb to be found anywhere in your house. You may be wondering what more you can do to further reduce your home energy bills.

(NAPSI)—You don’t have to be Mallory Hagan to look like Miss America—or, at any rate, to dress like her.

(NAPSI)—You can lessen the aches and pains that can come from growing a beautiful garden if you heed the advice of gardening expert and author Melinda Myers:

(NAPSI)—Every year on Earth Day, millions reflect on what can be done to be more environmentally conscious. But why limit it to just one day a year? Make every day Earth Day by changing out the old, energy-inefficient light bulbs in your home with LED bulbs and put money back in your pocket.

In a unanimous vote on Wednesday, the Oro Valley Town Council made official the annexation of 107 acres in the northwest area of Ina and Oracle roads. The three-year process came to a close earlier this month after the town secured more than the required support of 50 percent of the area property owners, representing more than 50 percent of the assessed property valuation.

(NewsUSA) - If you own a home, hot water availability can significantly impact how many daily tasks are accomplished, but it doesn't have to be that way. What if you could check a number of to-dos off your daily list -- such as laundry, dishwashing, showers, baths for the kids and perhaps one for yourself -- without having to devise a hot-water schedule? Well, you can.

A new chemical process can transform waste sulfur into a lightweight plastic that may improve batteries for electric cars, reports a University of Arizona-led team. The new plastic has other potential uses, including optical uses.