As summer approaches, the demand for air conditioning rises, leading to increased electricity consumption. However, staying cool doesn't have to come at a high cost. Entergy offers practical advice and resources to help customers enhance their home energy efficiency and reduce electricity bills. By implementing simple changes around the house, such as improving insulation, using fans effectively, and managing thermostats, customers can maintain comfort without excessive spending. Additionally, Entergy provides tools like myAdvisor and Bill Toolkit to monitor usage and explore payment options.
With the onset of warmer weather, homeowners face the challenge of balancing comfort with affordability. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, heating and cooling expenses account for over half of an average household's electricity bill. Poor insulation, air leaks, and outdated HVAC systems can exacerbate these costs. To address this issue, Entergy suggests several low-cost strategies. Regularly changing air filters ensures optimal performance of cooling units, while setting thermostats to the highest comfortable temperature minimizes energy use. Investing in programmable thermostats offers further control over energy consumption.
Fans play a crucial role in maintaining indoor comfort during hot months. Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans circulate air efficiently with minimal electricity usage. Ensuring that ceiling fans rotate counter-clockwise during summer helps push cooler air downward, enhancing room comfort. Closing blinds and curtains reduces heat gain from sunlight, while sealing cracks around doors and windows prevents cool air from escaping. These small adjustments collectively contribute to significant savings on utility bills.
Entergy's digital platforms provide valuable tools for monitoring and managing energy usage. The myAdvisor tool allows users to track their electricity consumption patterns, offering insights into daily and hourly trends. This feature helps identify areas where savings can be achieved. Furthermore, Entergy offers free comprehensive residential energy audits and rebates for installing energy-efficient equipment, reducing upfront costs for customers.
The Bill Toolkit platform consolidates resources for bill management and financial assistance. Customers can explore various payment options tailored to their needs. For instance, Pick-A-Date enables flexible billing cycles, allowing payments when convenient. Level Billing smooths out seasonal fluctuations by averaging monthly payments. PaperFREE billing delivers electronic invoices instantly, while AutoPay automates payments to avoid late fees. Entergy also encourages customers facing financial difficulties to seek deferred payment arrangements or extensions through their mobile app or online account.
By adopting these strategies and leveraging available resources, customers can enjoy a comfortable summer without worrying about skyrocketing electricity bills. Entergy's commitment to providing affordable solutions empowers households to take control of their energy consumption and manage expenses effectively. Through proactive measures and innovative tools, staying cool no longer has to strain wallets.
The state of New York has announced a significant financial commitment to renovate the emergency department at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Governor Kathy Hochul allocated an impressive $450 million in the latest state budget, replacing her initial placeholder figure of $200 million. This decision came after Hochul visited the hospital and recognized the urgent need for a state-of-the-art emergency room. Her firsthand experience inspired her to advocate for the full funding request submitted by the SUNY Board of Trustees earlier this year. Local lawmakers from central New York also played a pivotal role in securing the increased allocation. The president of Upstate Medical University, Mantosh Dewan, praised the substantial investment as transformative for both the hospital and the surrounding community.
During her tour of SUNY Upstate, Governor Hochul witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by the medical staff and patients. She described seeing the corridors filled with patients on gurneys and observing the dedication of the hospital workers under immense pressure. These experiences solidified her determination to secure the necessary funds to improve the facility. According to Hochul, the existing infrastructure was insufficient for providing optimal care, emphasizing that the community deserves better facilities. The additional resources aim to address these shortcomings and enhance the overall patient experience.
Mantosh Dewan expressed his gratitude for the unprecedented level of support, noting that it would revolutionize healthcare delivery. He highlighted the importance of not only maintaining high-quality care but also improving the environment in which patients receive treatment. Currently, while the medical competence remains commendable, the physical surroundings fall short of expectations. With the new funding, the hospital aims to create a more welcoming and private setting that aligns with the standards of modern healthcare.
Governor Hochul echoed Dewan’s sentiments, underscoring the necessity of upgrading the hospital's infrastructure. She acknowledged the prolonged wait endured by the community and justified the allocation as essential for serving the entire upstate region. Although specific timelines for the renovations remain undetermined, Dewan assured that collaboration with the governor will ensure swift progress towards implementing the planned improvements.
The infusion of $450 million into SUNY Upstate signifies a landmark moment for the hospital and its stakeholders. By addressing long-standing infrastructural deficiencies, the initiative promises to elevate patient care standards significantly. Both Hochul and Dewan agree that the transformation will benefit not just the hospital but also the broader community, reinforcing the hospital's role as a cornerstone of regional healthcare.
A prominent animal rescue organization in Georgia is urging vigilance against an alarming rise in fraudulent activities conducted under its banner. Furkids, a well-established shelter with over two decades of service, has reported numerous scams involving fake accounts and deceptive practices targeting compassionate individuals eager to help animals in need. The organization emphasizes the importance of verifying donation channels to prevent falling victim to these schemes.
Recent incidents have highlighted the extent of these fraudulent activities. One individual seeking assistance in locating his lost cat became a target when someone impersonating Furkids demanded $2,700 for purported veterinary care. Unfortunately, this was not an isolated case; for months, reports have surfaced regarding counterfeit Furkids Venmo accounts soliciting funds from unsuspecting donors. Additionally, financial fraud has affected the organization directly, as a $15,000 check intended for construction work on their new dog shelter in Cumming was intercepted and cashed illegally, likely stolen during transit.
The CEO and founder of Furkids, Samantha Shelton, expressed deep concern over the cruelty exhibited by scammers exploiting people's love for animals. She advises potential donors to contribute through the official website, ensuring transparency and security. Furthermore, she warns about the telltale signs of fraudulent Venmo accounts, such as incorrect spellings of the organization’s name. By fostering awareness and promoting safe donation practices, Furkids aims to protect both its supporters and its mission to care for animals. Emphasizing trustworthiness and caution can empower individuals to make meaningful contributions without fear of exploitation.