VA CORE, the bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, D-Ariz., to help tackle the substantial claims backlog at the Department of Veterans Affairs, today passed the House of Representatives as an amendment to HR 1960, the Department of Defense reauthorization bill. The passage is Kirkpatrick’s first legislative victory for veterans during the 113th Congress, building on her veterans-related accomplishments from the 111th Congress. She is Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.

(BPT) - Most of us view lawns, porches, decks and gardens as extensions of our homes and look forward to enjoying these spaces during warm weather. Unfortunately, rising temperatures also bring invasive insects that can lay their claim to these spaces and cause hefty damage.

(StatePoint) After spending the cooler months neglected, backyards and patios get lots of use during the warmer months, when barbecuing and outdoor entertaining season is in full swing.

Phoenix – With overwhelming bipartisan support from Arizona’s election community, legislation to correct issues that arose during the 2012 general election needs to be approved by the Legislature.

When did it become acceptable for government at any level to harass, intimidate and malign law abiding citizens; to demand to know what they pray about and who they worship with? When an agency of government abuses its authority we the people, in order to form a more perfect union, can eliminate it. 

(BPT) - Whether you own a cozy cottage or mega mansion, as a homeowner, you likely embrace the outdoor living trend. But when you look at your deck or patio, does it leave something to be desired? By taking a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, you can affordably create outdoor spaces that enhance the style and functionality of your home, plus add to the overall value of the property.

(BPT) - With Father’s Day right around the corner, give Dad a break from his “to do” list by taking care of the easier DIY tasks for him. From simple fixes to bigger projects, sometimes all you need is the right tool at the right time, to get the job done.

1. POLICE NAME SUSPECT IN SANTA MONICA SHOOTINGS

(BPT) - Minor kitchen updates can result in enhanced appearance, enjoyment and increased home value. With a free weekend and a modest budget, you can accomplish some do-it-yourself projects that will give your kitchen a whole new look.

(BPT) - Few phrases can strike fear into a homeowner’s heart as powerfully as the words “you have a mold problem.” Mold troubles in your home can cause health troubles for your family, and both issues can be notoriously difficult to resolve. It occurs everywhere in nature, but when mold begins growing indoors, it can damage any surface it grows on and cause respiratory problems for those living in the affected house.

(BPT) - “The bathroom sink drain is clogged!”

(BPT) - With summer ahead, parents are busy making plans for camps, sports and vacations. This time of year can be challenging, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable.

(BPT) - Whether you’re being treated for a minor injury or undergoing major surgery, it’s likely you’ll encounter not just one, but a team of health care professionals. While having multiple professionals working to provide you with the highest quality and safest care eases some fear, it also can cause confusion. When undergoing a surgery or procedure, it is important to truly know and understand who is providing your care.

Sometimes vacations aren’t quite as relaxing as you plan or expect them to be and these days traveling itself can often be stressful, almost to the point of defeating the purpose of one’s getaway. Shouldn’t you come back from a trip feeling more refreshed than when you left? More and more travelers are beginning to catch on to this notion. As a result, health and wellness retreats are continuing to grow in popularity.

We are getting increasingly closer to finding out who is the best basketball team in the world. Down to the conference finals, two teams remain in the East, the Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers, and two teams are left in the West, the San Antonio Spurs and Memphis Grizzlies. In these best of seven series’, home court advantage could make all the difference. 

On Monday, we as a nation observed Memorial Day, a day near and dear to our hearts. However, as we continue to observe and respect what veterans do for this country, there is still a broken system where those still with us are waiting years for benefits to kick in.

(BPT) - When it comes to home improvement, homeowners aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty; 64 percent who plan to make improvements this year say they will do it themselves, according to an American Express Consumer Spending and Saving Report. But not all home decorating or renovating projects are suitable for the average DIYer. So how do you know when to DIY or when to call in a professional?

(StatePoint) There’s no doubt that Americans spend a fortune on lawn care annually. But you can trim your costs without sacrificing your beautiful yard.

A new study quantifies for the first time the link between energy-efficient homes and mortgage risks, suggesting owners of Energy Star-certified houses are less likely to default on their home loans than members of a control group.

(BPT) - Show the man in your life how much he is appreciated, not just for Father’s Day, but 365 days a year. Choosing the perfect gift for that special guy can sometimes feel like a challenge. If he enjoys fixing things around the house and tackling home improvement projects – big or small – look no further for the perfect tool to add to his collection.

(BPT) - When it comes to home improvement, Americans have embraced doing it themselves – in a big way. Among homeowners who plan to make improvements, 64 percent say they will do it themselves, according to American Express’ Consumer Spending and Saving Report. Yet one area of home improvement continues to give even adventurous and confident DIYers pause – bathroom renovation.

Arizona Sen. John McCain introduced a new bill, the Television Consumer Freedom Act, that let the customers choose the channels in their subscription. 

The Ironwood Ridge Nighthawks defeated the Canyon Del Oro Dorados 4-0 Wednesday evening at Cherry Field.