Chesser Chatter

Are the Unemployed unemployable?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 05:34:03 -0700

This has been a small story for a little over a year now, but are employers not hiring the unemployed?

News Organizations around the country are reporting employers are not even looking at job applicantion of people who list themselves in the current employer field as unemployed.

The first place I read about this was at CNN Money and they reported "Employment experts say they believe companies are increasingly interested only in applicants who already have a job."

There have been many articles and blogs about The Unemployed need not apply.

My first reaction was this is so wrong and unfair......did I just say Unfair? Now I see the word 'Unfair' as a marker word that I should look at a subject from a different angle. So I asked myself why would an employer/recruiter want to do this?

Well let us say an employer has one job opening for an engineer and they post the job opening in newspapers and on the internet. They then receive thousands of applications for that one job. The employer does not have the time or money to review all of those applications, so they need/must reduce as quickly as possible the number they will look at.

People need to look (right or wrong) at unemployment as a negative in their life, because the reality is most people who meet someone who is unemployed ask the question - 'So what is wrong with them'. And employers are no different, they do not want someone elses problem or someone who may be lazy.

So they drop all the unemployed to simply reduce the number of people they have to look at. They may miss out on great people, but lets be honest if you are looking at thousands of people and you need to fill this job quickly you are going to set criteria to reduce the number.

Many in the Real Estate Industry work a part-time job to help with the down cycles. The unemployed may need to look at the benefit of listing a part-time on their applications.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Beware of Righthaven. They Are Looking to Take Down Websites. ActiveRain Needs to be Prepared

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 06:28:28 -0700

As newspapers fight for their survival I think we will see more of this. Copyright infringement is a serious problem on the internet.

People use your own words!

Via Tim Maitski "Video Agent Guy" (HomeAtlanta.com):

There's a new company that was formed in March for the sole purpose of going after those who infringe on the copyright of Las Vegas Review-Journal newspaper articles.

Copy one of their articles or use too much in a quote and they'll slap you with a hefty lawsuit. Their normal demand is for $75,000 and also giving them your website domain so that they can wipe it out altogether. They have 107 lawsuits pending at this time.

They are going after websites who allow users to post material, sites like ActiveRain. Imagine if someone did a post using one of the Las Vegas Review-Jounal's articles. One would think that there's no way that ActiveRain should be responsible to monitor every single thing that 190,000 users might post. $75,000 and to be shut down completely is a pretty harsh penalty. But that's what they are trying to do with many sites. They don't give any warning or settle for the offending material to be taken down. They want blood.

I came across this story because one of my favorite sites, www.DailyPaul.com just got slapped with a lawsuit because of this. The site allows users to post stories and posts very much like ActiveRain does. It's a showstring operation funded by donations and some advertising revenue. It's basically a grassroots website trying to help promote freedom and liberty through following Ron Paul and many of his core issues. I think everyone with a website needs to be aware of this story, especially ActiveRain.

Beginning in March, the R-J and its copyright enforcement partner Righthaven rolled out an effort unprecedented in the U.S. newspaper industry consisting of no-warning copyright infringement lawsuits seeking damages of $75,000 apiece and forfeiture of the infringing website domain names.

We have found each of the 107 lawsuits newsworthy and reported on all of them. But it's not the copyright claim itself in each case that's newsworthy, in our view.

It wouldn't have been much of a story if Righthaven had privately contacted each infringer, demanded they remove the infringing material and demanded some sort of fee for the use of the material...

What makes Righthaven so newsworthy is that it's using the federal court system to earn revenue through judgments and settlements with its no-warning lawsuits. That is its business model. When this business model involves suing R-J sources, nonpartisan nonprofits trying to do good in the world and bloggers like the noteworthy "cat lady" in Boston, it's even more newsworthy.

I've just begun to follow the story. I saw a story linking some of the key players of Righhaven with certain political figures. Wouldn't that be a great way to stifle politcal discussion. Identify blogs and sites that you don't like and try to take them down with one of these lawsuits.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

A Few Things About Garbage Disposals and Septic Systems

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:48:13 -0700

Garbage disposals work just fine when coupled with a septic system that has been sized correctly for the property and is maintained on a regular basis. If you have add a plumbing system (bathroom) to your home, your septic system drainage field is now probably undersized.

Do not pour any harmful chemicals, toxic substances, anti-bacterial soap, solvents, etc. into your septic system. These things simply kill the bacteria! Add a product like Rid-x once a month in the toilet (water closet) nearest your septic tank, if you know where it is located.

Do not send ANY solid articles into the septic tank that will displace water! This means cat litter, sanitary napkins, cigarette filters, sand, lots of dirt, etc.

Minimize or eliminate the introduction of cooking grease or oils that go down your drains. Pour these into a glass jar and dispose of with your normal trash.

Space out your water usage. Do different tasks on different days. Introduction of vast amounts of water into the septic tank moves the solid waste particles into the drainfield pre-maturely!

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

The Greatest School Answering Machine Recording of All Time....

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:41:51 -0700

The following is from an Australian School and is the greatest school answering machine recording of all time..... The first 30 seconds of the clip has no sound, but after that the real fun begins. I think the courageous woman who recorded this is a great educator of adults. Liberals will hate her.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Race- Watch and Learn from Truly Great Americans!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 06:31:32 -0700

Via Alice Linahan (Keller Williams):

RACE.....What is it all about.....Power.....For Who?

The Tea Party Movement has it right and the Left is once again on the wrong side of history.

As the All American Blogger states "Kevin Jackson Verbally Destroys the Left Wing and It's Beautiful Kevin Jackson, author of the Big Black Lie and The Black Sphere, was part of a press conference today where he did to the left verbally what Ivan Drago did to Apollo Creed physically."

Two reporters engage in a heated exchange with black conservative leaders at a press conference at the National Press Club on August 4, 2010 challenging the NAACP on its charges of racism within the tea party.

Who are these Great Americans and what do they have to say........

"Answering a question from a CNN reporter, Project 21 members Niger Innis (also of the Congress of Racial Equality) and Bob Parks, along with Frantz Kebreau of the National Association for the Advancement of Conservative People of All Colors, question the validity of claims that the tea party movement is racist."

"Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened." -Billy Graham

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Copyright © 2010 By Alice Linahan All Rights Reserved.)

Remember the biggest compliment I can receive is a referral from you!

I would love the opportunity to earn your business!

Alice Linahan Keller Williams Realtor Argyle-DFW Cell 972-322-8313

You can find me where people, homes, opportunity and a bit of imagination intersect!

Note from Alice: This is my post and my opinion and may not be the opinion of Keller Williams Corp.

A reminder: This is my public blog. Posters who leave comments that are personal attacks against the blogger or other commentators will be deleted. Debate the issue!!!! Thank you

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Here comes more Government paperwork for us all!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:44:39 -0700

As reported CNN Money Public Law 111-148, the Health Care Reform Act or Obamacare, contains a number of revenue raising provisions buried in the back of the legislation. Back in Section 9006 of this law the new IRS Form 1099 requirements can be found that will have very serious consequence.

The basic changes to Form 1099 requirements incorporated in this law take effect at the beginning of 2012. They require that all businesses tabulate payments for goods and services from non-governmental agencies and send a 1099 Form to the recipient if the total exceeds $600 for the entire calendar year.

But under the new rules, if a freelance designer buys a new iMac from the Apple Store, they'll have to send Apple a 1099. A laundromat that buys soap each week from a local distributor will have to send the supplier a 1099 at the end of the year tallying up their purchases. If you have a coffee service and you spend over $ 13.00 per week that is another 1099.

More and More paperwork thank your members of Congress that vote for ObamaCare.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Body Language is a key element in our business and life.

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 12:26:48 -0700

Everyone should think about what you are say to the people around us. Because like it or not, even when you are silent you are speaking volumes.

Here are some areas to think about:

1. Stand tall. Keeping your shoulders back and holding yourself up to your full height will give you an air of confidence.

2. Take your hands out of your pockets. Putting your hands in your pockets is often seen as a sign that you have something to hide.

3. Stand with your arms crossed behind your back. This will help you adjust your posture, and it leaves your hands in a position that is open and not intimidating.

4. Make eye contact. Always look directly into the eyes of the people you are speaking with. This shows you're interested and also gives you a sense of confidence.

5. Sit up straight. Even if you're at an 8 a.m. meeting and feeling tired, it's important to sit up straight in your chair. Slouching makes you look disinterested and can give off an unwanted air of laziness.

6. Face the person you're talking to. This shows you are interested and engaged in the conversation.

7. Shake hands firmly. For many, a handshake is a reflection of the person you're shaking hands with. You don't want to come across as unsure or overbearing, so make sure yours is professional and confident.

8. Always smile. Smiles are contagious and will make others feel positive when you're around.

9. Look your best. You don't have to be model perfect every day, but you should dress appropriately and neatly. Clothes can have a big impact on the way you're perceived.

10. Walk confidently. Keep your head up and take even strides.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Political Hell?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 20:16:55 -0700

I love a good bedtime story.......

Political Hell

A powerful senator dies after a prolonged illness. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.

"Welcome to Heaven," says St. Peter. "Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're not sure what to do with you."

"No problem, just let me in," says the guy.

"Well, I'd like to but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is have you spend one day in Hell and one in Heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity."

"Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in Heaven," says the senator.

"I'm sorry but we have our rules."

And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to Hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him, everyone is very happy and in evening attire. They run to greet him, hug him, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster and caviar. Also present is the Devil, who really is a very friendly guy who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that before he realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a big hug and waves while the elevator rises. The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on Heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him.

"Now it's time to visit Heaven."

So 24 hours pass with the head of state joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.

"Well then, you've spent a day in Hell and another in Heaven. Now choose your eternity."

He reflects for a minute, then the senator answers, "Well, I would never have said it, I mean Heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in Hell."

So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to Hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he is in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags. The Devil comes over to him and lays his arm on his neck. "I don't understand," stammers the senator."Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and club and we ate lobster and caviar and danced and had a great time. Now all there is, is a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable.

The Devil looks at him, smiles and says, "Yesterday we were campaigning! Today you voted for us! The election is over."

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Stop Cap and Trade - 3 Days Left- This is extremely important TODAY!!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 17:40:31 -0700

Stop Cap and Trade!!

Via Alice Linahan (Keller Williams):

TAKE ACTION: Stop Cap and Trade - 3 Days Left

watch this video NOW

By: Brian Faughnan, 7 Jun 2010 libertycentral.org

We must act now before Thursday, June 10th! Please email or call your Senator to tell them to vote YES on SJ Res 26 to block the EPA from implementing a cap and trade style carbon emissions regime!

After you call or email, please repost, reblog this page to your friends and families!

[please see list of "target" Senators below]

John Cornyn

517 Hart Senate Office Bldg.
Washington, DC 20510
Main: 202-224-2934 Fax: 202-228-2856

Chase Tower
221 West Sixth Street
Suite 1530
Austin, TX 78701
Main: 512-469-6034
Fax: 512-469-6020

Kay B. Hutchison

284 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510-4304
202-224-5922
202-224-0776 (FAX)202-224-5903

961 Federal Building
300 East 8th Street
Austin, Texas 78701
512-916-5834 512-916-5839 (FAX)

Please also call these target Senators and tell them to vote YES on SJ Res 26 to prevent the EPA from getting the power to implement cap and trade!

Jim Webb (VA)

Mark Warner (VA)

Mark Pryor (AR)

Evan Bayh (IN)

Robert Casey (PA)

Tim Johnson (SD)

Susan Collins (ME)

Olympia Snowe (ME)

Jay Rockefeller (WV)

Mark Begich (AK)

Byron Dorgan (ND)

Claire McCaskill (MO)

Scott Brown (MA)

Join The Conversation

Get Inspired

Take Action

When you see the button, click to take action!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Copyright © 2010 By Alice Linahan All Rights Reserved.)

Remember the biggest compliment I can receive is a referral from you!

I would love the opportunity to earn your business!

Alice Linahan Keller Williams Realtor Argyle-DFW Cell 972-322-8313

You can find me where people, homes, opportunity and a bit of imagination intersect!

Note from Alice: This is my post and my opinion and may not be the opinion of Keller Williams Corp.

A reminder: This is my public blog. Posters who leave comments that are personal attacks against the blogger or other commentators will be deleted. Debate the issue!!!! Thank you

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Tea Party Stunner......

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 19:29:58 -0700

Stunned, then uplifted!

Via Alice Linahan (Keller Williams):

One of the coolest parts of working with the Resolute Media Group

is the opportunity to meet and interview some amazing people like Herman Cain. One of my partners and I had that opportunity while we were in New Orleans for the SRLC. So, when I see a video such as the one below it gives me true hope in America.

Herman Cain lead a Q&A session at the Douglas County Tea Party when a young woman asked him about the attack by the Left on our Judea-Christian heritage in America. He addressed her question, then went to the last question of the night, and the crowd was not expecting what happened next.....

While Herman Cain is one of my heroes as you can see some of the real Heroes in our great country are everyday Americans who are standing up and speaking out. The Tea Parties across this nation are just the right forum to do this. The New Media movement is working hard to cover what the main stream media does not what you to see.

If you have not had the opportunity to be inspired by Herman Cain's speech from the Southern Republican Leadership Conference here is your chance. Hat Tip to The Right Scoop for this video.

ENJOY and be INSPIRED!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Copyright © 2010 By Alice Linahan All Rights Reserved.)

Remember the biggest compliment I can receive is a referral from you!

I would love the opportunity to earn your business!

Alice Linahan Keller Williams Realtor Argyle-DFW Cell 972-322-8313

You can find me where people, homes, opportunity and a bit of imagination intersect!

Note from Alice: This is my post and my opinion and may not be the opinion of Keller Williams Corp.

A reminder: This is my public blog. Posters who leave comments that are personal attacks against the blogger or other commentators will be deleted. Debate the issue!!!! Thank you

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Another way of looking at the problem?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:15:51 -0700

This is making its way around the Internet from a unknown author. Some sites say its from Euorpe, but where ever it is from or whoever wrote it there is a ring of truth.

The danger to America is not Barack Obama but a citizenry capable of entrusting a man like him with the Presidency. It will be far easier to limit and undo the follies of an Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense and good judgment to a depraved electorate willing to have such a man for their president. The problem is much deeper and far more serious than Mr. Obama, who is a mere symptom of what ails America. Blaming the prince of the fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of fools that made him their prince. The Republic can survive a Barack Obama, who is, after all, merely a fool. It is less likely to survive a multitude of fools such as those who made him their president.

Whatever direction our country takes, in the end it is on US....

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Bad, Bad Arizona Law

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Wed, 19 May 2010 21:45:05 -0700

All I hear from the left about the Arizona law is how it is racially profiling because the authorities may ask the a persons citizenship status. So here is a story that the left will not report on.

There is a High School Graduation is Kalamazoo, Michigan where the seniors are being required to show their citizenship status before they can walk across the stage to receive their diploma and to shake the hand of the President.

In order to shake hands with the President all seniors will have to provide the following information to the Secret Service.

Full Name
Birth date
Social Security Number
Citizenship status

Has anyone heard of any calls for a boycott of Obama's appearance at this high school? Where is the criminal intent? This will not make ABC, NBC, CBS or any other lamestream media.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Attention Remodelers & Renovators: New rule for EPA Lead Paint Safety

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 10:01:32 -0700

Today is the start for this new EPA Rule.

Via Wanda Kubat-Nerdin (Prado Real Estate, St. George, UT 435.632.9374):

EPA is now requiring contractors who remodel or rennovate to be EPA Lead Paint Safety Certified by April 22, 2010 if they are working on homes and child occupied facilities older than 1978.

Fines for non-compliance could be as high as $37,500 per day.

If you work on buildings that are older than 1978, then you must get certified. At least one employee must be certified in a company and keep detailed, accurate records regarding specific work methods.

For more information, contact your local Home Builder's Association, the National Association of Home Builders or the EPA.

To learn more regarding this new rule, go to: http://www.nahb.com/generic.aspx?genericContentID=118467

<<<0>>>

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Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Tea Party Infiltrators

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 03:44:12 -0700

A website (crashtheteaparty.org) has been recently set up by a middle school teacher by the name of Jason Levin of Beaverton, Oregon. And he wants his readers/team to show up to tea parties across the country in Nazi uniforms pretending to be racists and other offensive characters. One must point out the one Big question: If the left and their media think tea partiers are racist and anti-Semitic homophobes; why do they feel the need to plant people who pretend to be those things?

I think this is unlikely to happen at most tea parties on the 15th. Everyone remember to be firm, but polite.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

What was Obama's first Executive Order?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 20:13:31 -0700

President Obama's first Executive Order was the repeal of the Mexico City Policy to allow for international funding of abortion.

So now, Congressan Bart Stupak (D-MI) (a self proclaimed pro-life Democrat) is naive enough to believe a promise from our President to issue an Executive Order stopping federal funding of abortion. This promise from the most pro-abortion president to ever sit in the White House. Perhaps Mr. Stupak and his fellow pro-life Democrats do not like to look at someones track record. But we will.

Can an Executive Order really override Congressional legislation? NO!!!!!!

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

The Georgia Commerce Club

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:29:57 -0700

I have been involved with a great new networking group called the Georgia Commerce Club. I invite you to check out the opportunity to network with other local small business owners. I have over the last two months done more to grow my business through this group than any other group.

The following are the 10 reasons to join as listed by Tatyana Ladd-Thomas (GCC Founder).

10 Reasons to Join the Georgia Commerce Club

Free Personal Profile - so customers and civic leaders can join, even if they are not a business owner.

Free Business/Commercial Listings - no limit to how many businesses, charities, churches, or groups you may want to promote.

Free Group Page - Great for chamber promotion and open discussion from experts in their fields

Free Community Calendar - controlled, owned, and updated by the members to promote their own events for business or other.

Free Real Time Instant Chat - Network 24 hours a day when you have time. Great for those that are too busy for events or cannot leave the office enough to meet new networking partners.

Free Blog "Feed" - Instant Blog capture that is added to your profile even when you blog with your current provider so that others can find your most recent posts.

Free GPS Google Map - So that your new clients and prospects can find you.

Free Job/Resume Board - Let's keep Georgia Working!

Free "One-Click" Sharing - to all the most popular social media sites right from one place to save time signing in to multiple sites.

Visit their website http://georgiacommerceclub.org and/or Join us on Facebook.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Search Google and Yahoo! With One Click

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:43:29 -0700

Here is a very useful site.

Via John Novak - Las Vegas and Henderson NV Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty The Marketplace):

Checking search results or researching keywords can be repetitive and time consuming, especially if you're looking at both Google and Yahoo! Here's a solution from Twingine, which lets you search once and then view results side by side:

You can also view Bing results by clicking on the link at the top of the page, just to the right of the Twingine logo. For more info, visit www.Twingine.com.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Car Wash Gets IRS Visit Over What....?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 05:09:43 -0700

A Sacramento, California business owner, Aaron Zeff, was surprised by a visit form two IRS representatives who demand payment of unpaid taxes.

When two IRS agents handed the bill to Harv's Metro Car Wash owner, Mr. Zeff said he didn't know whether to laugh or cry. You the bill showed he owed four cents.

After a closer look at the bill, the four cents had $202.31 in fees and penalties. The four cents stemming from the 2006 tax year return.

Mr. Zeff even had a from the IRS sent in October 2009 saying the business had filed all required taxes and did not have a balance.

The car wash is planning a special promotion: Pay your taxes on time and get a car wash for just four cents.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Water Heater Maintenance

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:52:37 -0800

Yearly Water Heater Maintenance

This is a simple maintenance plan to maintain your hot water heater and to increase is life and its efficiency.

Most people do not know that in order to keep your water heater running properly and efficiently a very simple maintenance procedures need to be performed. Every unit comes with instructions on this maintenance, but is often overlooked.

The reason for this maintenance is as water is pumped into your water heater tank over time dirt, sediment and various minerals will settle on the bottom of the tank. Depending on the water quality in your area these can add up over a year making your water heater less efficiency and cost you money in the long run. If left unchecked they can not only make your water heater work harder and store less water.

What you will need is:

•1. A garden hose that is long enough to reach a spot outside that is lower than the water heater.

•2. Gloves for safety (optional)

•3. A flat head screw driver

•4. An old towel

Safety Note: Be careful! You are going to be dealing with gas/electricity, very hot water and steam.

How to perform a yearly draining of your hot water heater, to keep it running smoothly.

1. Locate Water Heater

It will be in most cases located in your garage. If not it will be in a utility closet, basement or attic. In a few cases it maybe found in a crawl space.

2. Determine if Power Source

You can and should read any warnings and labels on the side of the water heater.

A simple way is to look for a Flue on top of the water heater. It will be a metal chimney running from the top of the water heater up toward the roof. If you see a flue and you see a Temperature Control Box/Pilot Light switch near the base of the water heater you have a gas power source.

An electric power source will have a electric supply entering (in most cases) the water heater at the top. It will also have one or two thermostats on the side of the water heater. The thermostats will appears as small bump outs plates on the side of the unit.

3. Locate Water Shut Off Valve, Pressure Release Valve, & Water Drain

The cold water shut off valve is located on the top of the water heater on the water line running into the water heater. It typically is a wheel water valve, but may also look like a lever.

The temperature pressure release valve (TPR) is located on the top or side near the top of the unit. It should be labeled. This valve will have overflow piping running down the side of the unit to the floor or out the wall to the outside. Note: The TPR valve lever should not be moved or tested.

The water drain valve is located at the base of the water heater. It will be a wheel valve, a lever or will need a flat head screw driver to open the valve.

4. Turn Off Heating Source

If the water heater is gas, turn the temperature control box to the "OFF" position and then turn the gas supply valve to the "OFF" position

If it is electric be sure to shut off the circuit breaker .

5. Turn Off Water & Attach Garden Hose

Turn off the cold water to the water heater and attach the hose to the water drain. Ensure the garden hose reaches outside and the water drains away from the home. The old towel can be used at this end of the garden hose to collect any sediment from the water heater.

6. Turn On Water Drain

Inside your house, open up the hot-water faucets in one of your sinks or tubs nearest the water heater. This will prevent a vacuum from forming in the lines and in the tank.

Turn on the water drain to release the water from the water heater tank and wait for all the water to drain from the tank.

7. Turn On the Water to flush the rest of the sediment out.

Turn on the cold water supply to flush any remaining sediment to be flushed out. Run for about two minutes, check the water draining out and make sure it is clear, then turn off the cold supply.

Turn off the water drain. If the water drain will not close you may have sediment blocking the valve. If so, turn the cold water supply back on only until you hear a small amount of water entering the tank and then close the water drain.

8. Refilling the Tank

Make sure the water drain at the base of the tank is turned off. Turn on the cold water supply to allow the tank to be filled. Once the tank is full you can turn the gas (Read the Instruction on the side of the water heater) or circuit breaker back on. Caution: Do not turn the heating unit on until the tank is full. If the tank is not full it can cause heating damage to the unit.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform: What a Joke!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 07:47:58 -0800

Barack Obama added the name Andy Stern to the list individuals to serve on the bipartisan National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform being chaired by a former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles and a former Republican Senate Whip Alan Simpson.

Now why is addition of Andy Stern noteworthy? He is the president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). The SEIU represents 2.2 million healthcare workers, janitors, security officers, and public employees. The SEIU has had a large role in the economic crisis in California and appointing this man to this commission is a joke. This is like asking a shopaholic to help balance your bank book.

The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform is to make recommendations to Congress by the 1st of December 2010 to put the budget in balance so that all operations and programs for the federal government are paid by 2015. With today's appointment the President has named 6 bipartisan appointees to the commission. The remaining 12 members of the commission will be appointed by Senate and House leaders (3 each by the Republican and Democratic leaders of both houses).

What will be the outcome of all this? Raise taxes!

Everyone with a brain can see this coming.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Georgia Representative Presents Bill to Allow Purchase of Health Insurance Across State Lines

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 04:00:44 -0800

Georgia Bill flies in the face of the federal government. Thanks for the info, Mike.

Via Mike Saunders (Keller Williams Realty - Greater Athens):

Georgia state representative Matt Ramsey has introduced HB 1184 which would permit Georgia residents to purchase health insurance across state lines. It would allow insurance companies doing buisiness in Georgia to offer plans that have been approved in other states but are not currently available in Georgia.

Governor Sonny Perdue supports this bill saying: “This legislation will open up the individual insurance market and allows consumers to find the plan that best fits their needs. It will also help those that are uninsured find a plan that works for them.”

The full story of this plan can be found here.

The full text of the bill as proposed can be found here.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

A New Of American Hero.

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 05:21:35 -0800

A Rhode Island school superintendent from Central Falls was trying to fix an extremely bad and failing school in her district. Central Falls High is at the bottom of the state heap when it comes to graduation rates and test scores.

School Superintendent Frances Gallo's Plan called for teachers at a local high school to work 25 minutes longer per day, eat lunch with students once in a while, help with tutoring, submit to more rigorous evaluations, attend weekly after-school planning sessions with fellow teachers and participate in two weeks of training during the summer break.

The teachers' union has refused to accept these new rules.

The teachers at the high school make $70,000-$78,000, as compared to a median income in the town of $22,000. This exemplifies a nationwide trend in which government workers make far more than their private-sector counterparts and with better benefits.

After the union said "No" to the school superintendents new plan she responded to the union's stubbornness by firing about 100 teachers, administrators and staff members at the school.

"I am saddened and shaken at the core by the enormous ramifications of my responsibilities," Gallo said. "The only solace I have is that I know I provided every opportunity possible, in fully public and transparent ways, the means to avoid this."

Way to go Ms. Gallo!

One of the greatest threats to our country is teacher unions.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Join the Online March!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 02:18:15 -0800

Here is a Great and easy way to show the Federal Government you are sick and tired of the out of control taxes and spending.

It does not matter if you support the Fairtax, a Flat Tax or simple want to cut down our 80,000+ page tax code.

Join the Online Tax Revolt that is open to every American who believes our Federal Government is harmful to our country and a threat to our nation's future. Join other Americans as we march online from across the country to Washington, DC and rally together on April 15!

JOIN THE MARCH and pass it!

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

What is the difference?

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 08:31:24 -0800

What is the difference between Bernie Madoff and the Federal Government?

BERNIE MADOFF	SOCIAL SECURITY
Takes money from investors with the promise that the money will be invested and made available to them later	Takes money from wage earners with the promise that the money will be invested in a "Trust Fund" and made available later.
Instead of investing the money Madoff spends it on nice homes in the Hamptons and yachts.	Instead of depositing money in a Trust Fund the politicians use it for general spending and vote buying.
When the time comes to pay the investors back Madoff simply uses some of the new funds from newer investors to pay back the older investors.	When benefits for older investors become due the politicians pay them with money taken from younger and newer wage earners to pay the geezers.
When Madoff's scheme is discovered all hell breaks loose. New investors won't give him any more cash.	When Social Security runs out of money they simply force the taxpayers to send them some more.
Bernie Madoff is in jail.	Politicians remain in Washington.

This is a perfect example of if it is illegal for us to do, it should be illegal for a government to do.

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672

Happy Birthday Mr. President!!

Brian Chesser, CPI - Metro Atlanta and North Georgia (Chesser Home Inspections) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 17:50:56 -0800

No, not Barack Hussein Obama II who was born August 4, 1961. I am talking about the greatest President of our time Ronald Wilson Reagan February 6, 1911.

The 6th would have been Ronald Reagan's 99th birthday. It has been 21 years since the end of our 40th President's second term.

Ronald Reagan revitalized the US economy during one of the most serious financial crises since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

I enlisted in the US Army in August of 1980 and saw first hand what he did to bring the military back from its lowest point of readiness after its neglect in the late 70's under Jimmy Carter.

The more I read about him, the greater an appreciation I have for this Great American. During the last campiagn season (2008 - 2009) Reagan was the President whose name was most mentioned in debates by both parties, as the example of an effective leader. Poll after poll the American people pick Ronald Reagan has the President they must admire.

He believed in lower taxes, less government, and a strong military. International, his leadership rebuilt and restored the position of the United States and took the courageous actions that ultimately led to the end of the Cold War, with freedom winning the fight.

He inspired and encouraged the American people through simple speeches and a strong leadership style.

In February we celebrate the birthdays of two other Great American Presidents: Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809) and George Washington (February 22, 1732).

Remembering these three men can only give us hope.

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
Ronald Reagan

Government is like a baby. An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other.
Ronald Reagan

Brian H. Chesser, CPI

770-363-5672