New Year, New You? | Need Your Input | Adopt a Pixel in the Universe

by Jen Ward

Have you noticed the traffic picking up again? School's back in session, which means so is the daily scramble to get everyone where they need to be. Farewell, summer!

Did you catch the launch of the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope on August 30th? It was exciting to watch the launch, and I imagine even more exciting for those of you who were involved -- congrats! The telescope is named after Baltimore's own Nancy Grace Roman, and once it's fully commissioned, it'll capture images that help scientists study dark matter and dark energy. Here's the fun part: you can adopt a pixel from the millions the telescope will capture, and download a certificate for your very own piece of the universe. Stay tuned for more once it's up and running.

September has a way of feeling like a second New Year, minus the pressure of resolutions. If you're in the mood for a reset, this piece is worth a read.

A couple of home maintenance notes while we're at it. First: are you using your bathroom exhaust fan correctly? I didn't know there was a wrong way until I read this. Second, Bob Vila (the original home repair guy, long before HGTV existed) put together a list of September must-dos for your house, and a few of them surprised me. Do you know how to winterize your lawn mower?

Speaking of maintenance, I need your input.

1) Would it help to get a reminder from me a few times a year for seasonal home tasks? Let me know here.

2) Is there a contractor in the Baltimore area that you love? I'm compiling a list of the best plumbers, electricians, HVAC, window guys, etc. Share your recommendations with me!

Wishing a good start to the school year for students, parents, and commuters alike!

Jen

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One More Thing: Fall Fun Around Baltimore

It's the beginning of the arts season with events at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Lyric Theater, Creative Alliance, and more.

Baltimore Book Festival September 19-20th

Baltimore Comic-Con September 25-27th

Fell's Point Fun Festival October 10-12th

Free Fall Baltimore throughout October

Want to learn something without committing to a semester of coursework, while enjoying a pint? Attend a Profs and Pints night to learn from a professor in a way that isn't dry and boring.

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